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Glossary of tourism terms

Tourism is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors (which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents) and tourism has to do with their activities, some of which involve tourism expenditure.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

Activity/activities : In tourism statistics, the term activities represent the actions and behaviors of people in preparation for and during a trip in their capacity as consumers ( IRTS 2008, 1.2 ).

Activity (principal): The principal activity of a producer unit is the activity whose value added exceeds that of any other activity carried out within the same unit ( SNA 2008, 5.8 ).

Activity (productive): The (productive) activity carried out by a statistical unit is the type of production in which it engages. It has to be understood as a process, i.e. the combination of actions that result in a certain set of products. The classification of productive activities is determined by their principal output.

Administrative data : Administrative data is the set of units and data derived from an administrative source. This is a data holding information collected and maintained for the purpose of implementing one or more administrative regulations.

Adventure tourism : Adventure tourism is a type of tourism which usually takes place in destinations with specific geographic features and landscape and tends to be associated with a physical activity, cultural exchange, interaction and engagement with nature. This experience may involve some kind of real or perceived risk and may require significant physical and/or mental effort. Adventure tourism generally includes outdoor activities such as mountaineering, trekking, bungee jumping, rock climbing, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, canyoning, mountain biking, bush walking, scuba diving. Likewise, some indoor adventure tourism activities may also be practiced.

Aggregated data : The result of transforming unit level data into quantitative measures for a set of characteristics of a population.

Aggregation : A process that transforms microdata into aggregate-level information by using an aggregation function such as count, sum average, standard deviation, etc.

Analytical unit : Entity created by statisticians, by splitting or combining observation units with the help of estimations and imputations.

Balance of payments : The balance of payments is a statistical statement that summarizes transactions between residents and non-residents during a period. It consists of the goods and services account, the primary income account, the secondary income account, the capital account, and the financial account ( BPM6, 2.12 ).

Bias : An effect which deprives a statistical result of representativeness by systematically distorting it, as distinct from a random error which may distort on any one occasion but balances out on the average.

Business and professional purpose (of a tourism trip): The business and professional purpose of a tourism trip includes the activities of the self-employed and employees, as long as they do not correspond to an implicit or explicit employer-employee relationship with a resident producer in the country or place visited, those of investors, businessmen, etc. ( IRTS 2008, 3.17.2 ).

Business tourism : Business tourism is a type of tourism activity in which visitors travel for a specific professional and/or business purpose to a place outside their workplace and residence with the aim of attending a meeting, an activity or an event. The key components of business tourism are meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions. The term "meetings industry" within the context of business tourism recognizes the industrial nature of such activities. Business tourism can be combined with any other tourism type during the same trip.

Business visitor : A business visitor is a visitor whose main purpose for a tourism trip corresponds to the business and professional category of purpose ( IRTS 2008, 3.17.2 ).

Central Product Classification : The Central Product Classification (CPC) constitutes a complete product classification covering goods and services. It is intended to serve as an international standard for assembling and tabulating all kinds of data requiring product detail, including industrial production, national accounts, service industries, domestic and foreign commodity trade, international trade in services, balance of payments, consumption and price statistics. Other basic aims are to provide a framework for international comparison and promote harmonization of various types of statistics dealing with goods and services.

Census : A census is the complete enumeration of a population or groups at a point in time with respect to well defined characteristics: for example, Population, Production, Traffic on particular roads.

Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism : Coastal tourism refers to land-based tourism activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing and other coastal leisure, recreation and sports activities which take place on the shore of a sea, lake or river. Proximity to the coast is also a condition for services and facilities that support coastal tourism. Maritime tourism refers to sea-based activities such as cruising, yachting, boating and nautical sports and includes their respective land-based services and infrastructure. Inland water tourism refers to tourism activities such as cruising, yachting, boating and nautical sports which take place in aquatic- influenced environments located within land boundaries and include lakes, rivers, ponds, streams, groundwater, springs, cave waters and others traditionally grouped as inland wetlands.

Coherence : Adequacy of statistics to be combined in different ways and for various uses.

Competitiveness of a tourism destination : The competitiveness of a tourism destination is the ability of the destination to use its natural, cultural, human, man-made and capital resources efficiently to develop and deliver quality, innovative, ethical and attractive tourism products and services in order to achieve a sustainable growth within its overall vision and strategic goals, increase the added value of the tourism sector, improve and diversify its market components and optimize its attractiveness and benefits both for visitors and the local community in a sustainable perspective.

Consistency : Logical and numerical coherence.

Country of reference : The country of reference refers to the country for which the measurement is done. ( IRTS 2008, 2.15 ).

Country of residence : The country of residence of a household is determined according to the centre of predominant economic interest of its members. If a person resides (or intends to reside) for more than one year in a given country and has there his/her centre of economic interest (for example, where the predominant amount of time is spent), he/she is considered as a resident of this country.

Country-specific tourism characteristic products and activities : To be determined by each country by applying the criteria of IRTS 2008, 5.10 in their own context; for these products, the activities producing them will be considered as tourism characteristic, and the industries in which the principal activity is tourism-characteristic will be called tourism industries ( IRTS 2008, 5.16 ).

Cultural tourism : Cultural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor's essential motivation is to learn, discover, experience and consume the tangible and intangible cultural attractions/products in a tourism destination. These attractions/products relate to a set of distinctive material, intellectual, spiritual and emotional features of a society that encompasses arts and architecture, historical and cultural heritage, culinary heritage, literature, music, creative industries and the living cultures with their lifestyles, value systems, beliefs and traditions.

Data checking : Activity whereby the correctness conditions of the data are verified. It also includes the specification of the type of error or of the condition not met, and the qualification of the data and their division into "error-free data" and "erroneous data".

Data collection : Systematic process of gathering data for official statistics.

Data compilation : Operations performed on data to derive new information according to a given set of rules.

Data confrontation : The process of comparing data that has generally been derived from different surveys or other sources, especially those of different frequencies, in order to assess and possibly improve their coherency, and identify the reasons for any differences.

Data processing : Data processing is the operation performed on data by the organization, institute, agency, etc., responsible for undertaking the collection, tabulation, manipulation and preparation of data and metadata output.

Data reconciliation : The process of adjusting data derived from two different sources to remove, or at least reduce, the impact of differences identified.

Destination (main destination of a trip): The main destination of a tourism trip is defined as the place visited that is central to the decision to take the trip. See also purpose of a tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.31 ).

Destination management / marketing organization (DMO) : A destination management/marketing organization (DMO) is the leading organizational entity which may encompass the various authorities, stakeholders and professionals and facilitates tourism sector partnerships towards a collective destination vision. The governance structures of DMOs vary from a single public authority to a public/ private partnership model with the key role of initiating, coordinating and managing certain activities such as implementation of tourism policies, strategic planning, product development, promotion and marketing and convention bureau activities. The functions of the DMOs may vary from national to regional and local levels depending on the current and potential needs as well as on the decentralization level of public administration. Not every tourism destination has a DMO.

Documentation: Processes and procedures for imputation,  weighting,  confidentiality  and suppression rules, outlier treatment and data capture should be fully documented by the  survey provider.  Such documentation should be made available to at least  the body financing the survey.

Domestic tourism : Domestic tourism comprises the activities of a resident visitor within the country of reference, either as part of a domestic tourism trip or part of an outbound tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.39 ).

Domestic tourism consumption : Domestic tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of a resident visitor within the economy of reference ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Domestic tourism expenditure : Domestic tourism expenditure is the tourism expenditure of a resident visitor within the economy of reference, (IRTS 2008, 4.15(a)).

Domestic tourism trip : A domestic tourism trip is one with a main destination within the country of residence of the visitor (IRTS 2008, 2.32).

Domestic visitor : As a visitor travels within his/her country of residence, he/she is a domestic visitor and his/her activities are part of domestic tourism.

Durable consumer goods : Durable consumer goods are goods that may be used repeatedly or continuously over a period of a year or more, assuming a normal or average rate of physical usage. When acquired by producers, these are considered to be capital goods used for production processes, as is the case of vehicles, computers, etc. When acquired by households, they are considered to be consumer durable goods ( TSA:RMF 2008, 2.39 ). This definition is identical to the definition of SNA 2008, 9.42 : A consumer durable is a goodthat may be used for purposes of consumption repeatedly or continuously over a period of a year or more.

Dwellings : Each household has a principal dwelling (sometimes also designated as main or primary home), usually defined with reference to time spent there, whose location defines the country of residence and place of usual residence of this household and of all its members. All other dwellings (owned or leased by the household) are considered secondary dwellings ( IRTS 2008, 2.26 ).

Ecotourism : Ecotourism is a type of nature-based tourism activity in which the visitor's essential motivation is to observe, learn, discover, experience and appreciate biological and cultural diversity with a responsible attitude to protect the integrity of the ecosystem and enhance the well-being of the local community. Ecotourism increases awareness towards the conservation of biodiversity, natural environment and cultural assets both among locals and the visitors and requires special management processes to minimize the negative impact on the ecosystem.

Economic analysis : Tourism generates directly and indirectly an increase in economic activity in the places visited (and beyond), mainly due to demand for goods and services thatneed to be produced and provided. In the economic analysis of tourism, one may distinguish between tourism's 'economic contribution' which refers to the direct effect of tourism and is measurable by means of the TSA, and tourism's 'economic impact' which is a much broader concept encapsulating the direct, indirect and induced effects of tourism and which must be estimated by applying models. Economic impact studies aim to quantify economic benefits, that is, the net increase in the wealth of residents resulting from tourism, measured in monetary terms, over and above the levels that would prevail in its absence.

Economic territory : The term "economic territory" is a geographical reference and points to the country for which the measurement is done (country of reference) ( IRTS 2008, 2.15 ).

Economically active population : The economically active population or labour force comprises all persons of either sex who furnish the supply of labour for the production of goods and services as defined by the system of national accounts during a specified time-reference period (ILO, Thirteenth ICLS, 6.18).

Economy (of reference): "Economy" (or "economy of reference") is an economic reference defined in the same way as in the balance of payments and in the system of national accounts: it refers to the economic agents that are resident in the country of reference ( IRTS 2008, 2.15 ).

Education tourism : Education tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation the tourist's engagement and experience in learning, self-improvement, intellectual growth and skills development. Education Tourism represents a broad range of products and services related to academic studies, skill enhancement holidays, school trips, sports training, career development courses and language courses, among others.

Employees : Employees are all those workers who hold the type of job defined as "paid employment" (ILO, Fifteenth ICLS, pp. 20-22).

Employer-employee relationship : An employer-employee relationship exists when there is an agreement, which may be formal or informal, between an entity and an individual, normally entered into voluntarily by both parties, whereby the individual works for the entity in return for remuneration in cash or in kind ( BPM6, 11.11 ).

Employers : Employers are those workers who, working on their own account with one or more partners, hold the type of job defined as a "self-employment job" and, in this capacity, on a continuous basis (including the reference period) have engaged one or more persons to work for them in their business as "employee(s)" (ILO, Fifteenth ICLS, pp. 20-22).

Employment : Persons in employment are all persons above a specified age who, during a specified brief period, either one week or one day, were in paid employment or self-employment (OECD GST, p. 170).

Employment in tourism industries : Employment in tourism industries may be measured as a count of the persons employed in tourism industries in any of their jobs, as a count of the persons employed in tourism industries in their main job, or as a count of the jobs in tourism industries ( IRTS 2008, 7.9 ).

Enterprise : An enterprise is an institutional unit engaged in production of goods and/or services. It may be a corporation, a non-profit institution, or an unincorporated enterprise. Corporate enterprises and non-profit institutions are complete institutional units. An unincorporated enterprise, however, refers to an institutional unit —a household or government unit —only in its capacity as a producer of goods and services (OECD BD4, p. 232)

Establishment : An establishment is an enterprise, or part of an enterprise, that is situated in a single location and in which only a single productive activity is carried out or in which the principal productive activity accounts for most of the value added ( SNA 2008, 5.14 ).

Estimation : Estimation is concerned with inference about the numerical value of unknown population values from incomplete data such as a sample. If a single figure is calculated for each unknown parameter the process is called "point estimation". If an interval is calculated within which the parameter is likely, in some sense, to lie, the process is called "interval estimation".

Exports of goods and services : Exports of goods and services consist of sales, barter, or gifts or grants, of goods and services from residents to non-residents (OECD GST, p. 194)

Frame : A list, map or other specification of the units which define a population to be completely enumerated or sampled.

Forms of tourism : There are three basic forms of tourism: domestic tourism, inbound tourism, and outbound tourism. These can be combined in various ways to derive the following additional forms of tourism: internal tourism, national tourism and international tourism.

Gastronomy tourism :  Gastronomy tourism is a type of tourism activity which is characterized by the visitor's experience linked with food and related products and activities while travelling. Along with authentic, traditional, and/or innovative culinary experiences, Gastronomy Tourism may also involve other related activities such as visiting the local producers, participating in food festivals and attending cooking classes. Eno-tourism (wine tourism), as a sub-type of gastronomy tourism, refers to tourism whose purpose is visiting vineyards, wineries, tasting, consuming and/or purchasing wine, often at or near the source.

Goods : Goods are physical, produced objects for which a demand exists, over which ownership rights can be established and whose ownership can be transferred from one institutional unit to another by engaging in transactions on markets ( SNA 2008, p. 623 ).

Gross fixed capital formation : Gross fixed capital formation is defined as the value of institutional units' acquisitions less disposals of fixed assets. Fixed assets are produced assets (such as machinery, equipment, buildings or other structures) that are used repeatedly or continuously in production over several accounting periods (more than one year) ( SNA 2008, 1.52 ).

Gross margin : The gross margin of a provider of reservation services is the difference between the value at which the intermediated service is sold and the value accrued to the provider of reservation services for this intermediated service.

Gross value added : Gross value added is the value of output less the value of intermediate consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, 3.32 ).

Gross value added of tourism industries : Gross value added of tourism industries (GVATI) is the total gross value added of all establishments belonging to tourism industries, regardless of whether all their output is provided to visitors and the degree of specialization of their production process ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.86 ).

Grossing up : Activity aimed at transforming, based on statistical methodology, micro-data from samples into aggregate-level information representative of the target population.

Health tourism : Health tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation, the contribution to physical, mental and/or spiritual health through medical and wellness-based activities which increase the capacity of individuals to satisfy their own needs and function better as individuals in their environment and society. Health tourism is the umbrella term for the subtypes wellness tourism and medical tourism.

Imputation : Procedure for entering a value for a specific data item where the response is missing or unusable.

Inbound tourism : Inbound tourism comprises the activities of a non-resident visitor within the country of reference on an inbound tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.39 ).

Inbound tourism consumption : Inbound tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of a non-resident visitor within the economy of reference ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Inbound tourism expenditure : Inbound tourism expenditure is the tourism expenditure of a non-resident visitor within the economy of reference ( IRTS 2008, 4.15(b) ).

Innovation in tourism : Innovation in tourism is the introduction of a new or improved component which intends to bring tangible and intangible benefits to tourism stakeholders and the local community, improve the value of the tourism experience and the core competencies of the tourism sector and hence enhance tourism competitiveness and /or sustainability. Innovation in tourism may cover potential areas, such as tourism destinations, tourism products, technology, processes, organizations and business models, skills, architecture, services, tools and/or practices for management, marketing, communication, operation, quality assurance and pricing.

Institutional sector : An aggregation of institutional units on the basis of the type of producer and depending on their principal activity and function, which are considered to be indicative of their economic behaviour.

Institutional unit : The elementary economic decision-making centre characterised by uniformity of behaviour and decision-making autonomy in the exercise of its principal function.

Intermediate consumption : Intermediate consumption consists of the value of the goods and services consumed as inputs by a process of production, excluding fixed assets whose consumption is recorded as consumption of fixed capital ( SNA 2008, 6.213 ).

Internal tourism : Internal tourism comprises domestic tourism and inbound tourism, that is to say, the activities of resident and non-resident visitors within the country of reference as part of domestic or international tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.40(a) ).

Internal tourism consumption : Internal tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of both resident and non-resident visitors within the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism consumption and inbound tourism consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Internal tourism expenditure : Internal tourism expenditure comprises all tourism expenditure of visitors, both resident and non-resident, within the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism expenditure and inbound tourism expenditure. It includes acquisition of goods and services imported into the country of reference and sold to visitors. This indicator provides the most comprehensive measurement of tourism expenditure in the economy of reference ( IRTS 2008, 4.20(a) ).

International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities : The International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC) consists of a coherent and consistent classification structure of economic activities based on a set of internationally agreed concepts, definitions, principles and classification rules. It provides a comprehensive framework within which economic data can be collected and reported in a format that is designed for purposes of economic analysis, decision-taking and policymaking. The classification structure represents a standard format to organize detailed information about the state of an economy according to economic principles and perceptions (ISIC, Rev.4, 1).

International tourism : International tourism comprises inbound tourism and outbound tourism, that is to say, the activities of resident visitors outside the country of reference, either as part of domestic or outbound tourism trips and the activities of non-resident visitors within the country of reference on inbound tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.40(c) ).

International visitor : An international traveller qualifies as an international visitor with respect to the country of reference if: (a) he/she is on a tourism trip and (b) he/she is a non-resident travelling in the country of reference or a resident travelling outside of it ( IRTS 2008, 2.42 ).

Job : The agreement between an employee and the employer defines a job and each self-employed person has a job ( SNA 2008, 19.30 ).

Measurement error : Error in reading, calculating or recording numerical value.

Medical tourism : Medical tourism is a type of tourism activity which involves the use of evidence-based medical healing resources and services (both invasive and non-invasive). This may include diagnosis, treatment, cure, prevention and rehabilitation.

Meetings industry : To highlight purposes relevant to the meetings industry, if a trip's main purpose is business/professional, it can be further subdivided into "attending meetings, conferences or congresses, trade fairs and exhibitions" and "other business and professional purposes". The term meetings industry is preferred by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and Reed Travel over the acronym MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) which does not recognize the industrial nature of such activities.

Metadata : Data that defines and describes other data and processes.

MICE : See meetings industry.

Microdata : Non-aggregated observations, or measurements of characteristics of individual units.

Mirror statistics : Mirror statistics are used to conduct bilateral comparisons of two basic measures of a trade flow and are a traditional tool for detecting the causes of asymmetries in statistics (OECD GST, p. 335).

Mountain tourism : Mountain tourism is a type of tourism activity which takes place in a defined and limited geographical space such as hills or mountains with distinctive characteristics and attributes that are inherent to a specific landscape, topography, climate, biodiversity (flora and fauna) and local community. It encompasses a broad range of outdoor leisure and sports activities.

National tourism : National tourism comprises domestic tourism and outbound tourism, that is to say, the activities of resident visitors within and outside the country of reference, either as part of domestic or outbound tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.40(b) ).

National tourism consumption : National tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of resident visitors, within and outside the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism consumption and outbound tourism consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

National tourism expenditure : National tourism expenditure comprises all tourism expenditure of resident visitors within and outside the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism expenditure and outbound tourism expenditure ( IRTS 2008, 4.20(b) ).

Nationality : The concept of "country of residence" of a traveller is different from that of his/her nationality or citizenship ( IRTS 2008, 2.19 ).

Non-monetary indicators : Data measured in physical or other non-monetary units should not be considered a secondary part of a satellite account. They are essential components, both for the information they provide directly and in order to analyse the monetary data adequately ( SNA 2008, 29.84 ).

Observation unit : entity on which information is received and statistics are compiled.

Outbound tourism : Outbound tourism comprises the activities of a resident visitor outside the country of reference, either as part of an outbound tourism trip or as part of a domestic tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.39(c) ).

Outbound tourism consumption : Outbound tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of a resident visitor outside the economy of reference ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Outbound tourism expenditure : Outbound tourism expenditure is the tourism expenditure of a resident visitor outside the economy of reference ( IRTS 2008, 4.15(c) ).

Output : Output is defined as the goods and services produced by an establishment, a) excluding the value of any goods and services used in an activity for which the establishment does not assume the risk of using the products in production, and b) excluding the value of goods and services consumed by the same establishment except for goods and services used for capital formation (fixed capital or changes in inventories) or own final consumption ( SNA 2008, 6.89 ).

Output (main): The main output of a (productive) activity should be determined by reference to the value added of the goods sold or services rendered (ISIC rev.4, 114).

Pilot survey : The aim of a pilot survey is to test the questionnaire (pertinence of the questions, understanding of questions by those being interviewed, duration of the interview) and to check various potential sources for sampling and non-sampling errors: for instance, the place in which the surveys are carried out and the method used, the identification of any omitted answers and the reason for the omission, problems of communicating in various languages, translation, the mechanics of data collection, the organization of field work, etc.

Place of usual residence : The place of usual residence is the geographical place where the enumerated person usually resides, and is defined by the location of his/her principal dwelling (Principles and recommendations for population and housing censuses of the United Nations, 2.20 to 2.24).

Probability sample : A sample selected by a method based on the theory of probability (random process), that is, by a method involving knowledge of the likelihood of any unit being selected.

Production account : The production account records the activity of producing goods and services as defined within the SNA. Its balancing item, gross value added, is defined as the value of output less the value of intermediate consumption and is a measure of the contribution to GDP made by an individual producer, industry or sector. Gross value added is the source from which the primary incomes of the SNA are generated and is therefore carried forward into the primary distribution of income account. Value added and GDP may also be measured net by deducting consumption of fixed capital, a figure representing the decline in value during the period of the fixed capital used in a production process ( SNA 2008, 1.17 ).

Production : Economic production may be defined as an activity carried out under the control and responsibility of an institutional unit that uses inputs of labour, capital, and goods and services to produce outputs of goods or services ( SNA 2008, 6.24. ).

Purpose of a tourism trip (main): The main purpose of a tourism trip is defined as the purpose in the absence of which the trip would not have taken place ( IRTS 2008, 3.10. ). Classification of tourism trips according to the main purpose refers to nine categories: this typology allows the identification of different subsets of visitors (business visitors, transit visitors, etc.) See also destination of a tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 3.14 ).

Quality of a tourism destination : Quality of a tourism destination is the result of a process which implies the satisfaction of all tourism product and service needs, requirements and expectations of the consumer at an acceptable price, in conformity with mutually accepted contractual conditions and the implicit underlying factors such as safety and security, hygiene, accessibility, communication, infrastructure and public amenities and services. It also involves aspects of ethics, transparency and respect towards the human, natural and cultural environment. Quality, as one of the key drivers of tourism competitiveness, is also a professional tool for organizational, operational and perception purposes for tourism suppliers.

Questionnaire and Questionnaire design : Questionnaire is a group or sequence of questions designed to elicit information on a subject, or sequence of subjects, from a reporting unit or from another producer of official statistics. Questionnaire design is the design (text, order, and conditions for skipping) of the questions used to obtain the data needed for the survey.

Reference period : The period of time or point in time to which the measured observation is intended to refer.

Relevance : The degree to which statistics meet current and potential users' needs.

Reliability : Closeness of the initial estimated value to the subsequent estimated value.

Reporting unit : Unit that supplies the data for a given survey instance, like a questionnaire or interview. Reporting units may, or may not, be the same as the observation unit.

Residents/non-residents : The residents of a country are individuals whose centre of predominant economic interest is located in its economic territory. For a country, the non-residents are individuals whose centre of predominant economic interest is located outside its economic territory.

Response and non-response : Response and non-response to various elements of a survey entail potential errors.

Response error : Response errors may be defined as those arising from the interviewing process. Such errors may be due to a number of circumstances, such as inadequate concepts or questions; inadequate training; interviewer failures; respondent failures.

Rural tourism : Rural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor's experience is related to a wide range of products generally linked to nature-based activities, agriculture, rural lifestyle / culture, angling and sightseeing. Rural tourism activities take place in non-urban (rural) areas with the following characteristics:

• Low population density;
• Landscape and land-use dominated by agriculture and forestry; and
• Traditional social structure and lifestyle

Same-day visitor (or excursionist): A visitor (domestic, inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist (or overnight visitor), if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as a same-day visitor (or excursionist) otherwise ( IRTS 2008, 2.13 ).

Sample : A subset of a frame where elements are selected based on a process with a known probability of selection.

Sample survey : A survey which is carried out using a sampling method.

Sampling error : That part of the difference between a population value and an estimate thereof, derived from a random sample, which is due to the fact that only a subset of the population is enumerated.

Satellite accounts : There are two types of satellite accounts, serving two different functions. The first type, sometimes called an internal satellite, takes the full set of accounting rules and conventions of the SNA but focuses on a particular aspect of interest by moving away from the standard classifications and hierarchies. Examples are tourism, coffee production and environmental protection expenditure. The second type, called an external satellite, may add non-economic data or vary some of the accounting conventions or both. It is a particularly suitable way to explore new areas in a research context. An example may be the role of volunteer labour in the economy ( SNA 2008, 29.85 ).

SDMX, Statistical Data and Metadata Exchange : Set of technical standards and content-oriented guidelines, together with an IT architecture and tools, to be used for the efficient exchange and sharing of statistical data and metadata (SDMX).

Seasonal adjustment : Seasonal adjustment is a statistical technique to remove the effects of seasonal calendar influences on a series. Seasonal effects usually reflect the influence of the seasons themselves, either directly or through production series related to them, or social conventions. Other types of calendar variation occur as a result of influences such as number of days in the calendar period, the accounting or recording practices adopted or the incidence of moving holidays.

Self-employment job : Self-employment jobs are those jobs where remuneration is directly dependent upon the profits (or the potential of profits) derived from the goods or services produced.

Self-employed with paid employees : Self-employed with paid employees are classified as employers.

Self-employed without employees : Self-employed without employees are classified as own-account workers.

Services : Services are the result of a production activity that changes the conditions of the consuming units, or facilitates the exchange of products or financial assets. They cannot be traded separately from their production. By the time their production is completed, they must have been provided to the consumers ( SNA 2008, 6.17 ).

Social transfers in kind : A special case of transfers in kind is that of social transfers in kind. These consist of goods and services provided by general government and non-profit institutions serving households (NPISHs) that are delivered to individual households. Health and education services are the prime examples. Rather than provide a specified amount of money to be used to purchase medical and educational services, the services are often provided in kind to make sure that the need for the services is met. (Sometimes the recipient purchases the service and is reimbursed by the insurance or assistance scheme. Such a transaction is still treated as being in kind because the recipient is merely acting as the agent of the insurance scheme) (SNA 2008, 3.83).

Sports tourism : Sports tourism is a type of tourism activity which refers to the travel experience of the tourist who either observes as a spectator or actively participates in a sporting event generally involving commercial and non-commercial activities of a competitive nature.

Standard classification : Classifications that follow prescribed rules and are generally recommended and accepted.

Statistical error : The unknown difference between the retained value and the true value.

Statistical indicator : A data element that represents statistical data for a specified time, place, and other characteristics, and is corrected for at least one dimension (usually size) to allow for meaningful comparisons.

Statistical metadata : Data about statistical data.

Statistical unit : Entity about which information is sought and about which statistics are compiled. Statistical units may be identifiable legal or physical entities or statistical constructs.

Survey : An investigation about the characteristics of a given population by means of collecting data from a sample of that population and estimating their characteristics through the systematic use of statistical methodology.

System of National Accounts : The System of National Accounts (SNA) is the internationally agreed standard set of recommendations on how to compile measures of economic activity in accordance with strict accounting conventions based on economic principles. The recommendations are expressed in terms of a set of concepts, definitions, classifications and accounting rules that comprise the internationally agreed standard for measuring indicators of economic performance. The accounting framework of the SNA allows economic data to be compiled and presented in a format that is designed for purposes of economic analysis, decision-taking and policymaking ( SNA 2008, 1.1 ).

Total tourism internal demand : Total tourism internal demand, is the sum of internal tourism consumption, tourism gross fixed capital formation and tourism collective consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.114 ). It does not include outbound tourism consumption.

Tourism : Tourism refers to the activity of visitors ( IRTS 2008, 2.9 ).

Tourism characteristic activities : Tourism characteristic activities are the activities that typically produce tourism characteristic products. As the industrial origin of a product (the ISIC industry that produces it) is not a criterion for the aggregation of products within a similar CPC category, there is no strict one-to-one relationship between products and the industries producing them as their principal outputs ( IRTS 2008, 5.11 ).

Tourism characteristic products : Tourism characteristic products are those that satisfy one or both of the following criteria: a) Tourism expenditure on the product should represent a significant share total tourism expenditure (share-of-expenditure/demand condition); b) Tourism expenditure on the product should represent a significant share of the supply of the product in the economy (share-of-supply condition). This criterion implies that the supply of a tourism characteristic product would cease to exist in meaningful quantity in the absence of visitors ( IRTS 2008, 5.10 ).

Tourism connected products : Their significance within tourism analysis for the economy of reference is recognized although their link to tourism is very limited worldwide. Consequently, lists of such products will be country-specific ( IRTS 2008, 5.12 ).

Tourism consumption : Tourism consumption has the same formal definition as tourism expenditure. Nevertheless, the concept of tourism consumption used in the Tourism Satellite Account goes beyond that of tourism expenditure. Besides the amount paid for the acquisition of consumption goods and services, as well as valuables for own use or to give away, for and during tourism trips, which corresponds to monetary transactions (the focus of tourism expenditure), it also includes services associated with vacation accommodation on own account, tourism social transfers in kind and other imputed consumption. These transactions need to be estimated using sources different from information collected directly from the visitors, such as reports on home exchanges, estimations of rents associated with vacation homes, calculations of financial intermediation services indirectly measured (FISIM), etc. ( TSA:RMF 2008, 2.25 ).

Tourism destination : A tourism destination is a physical space with or without administrative and/or analytical boundaries in which a visitor can spend an overnight. It is the cluster (co-location) of products and services, and of activities and experiences along the tourism value chain and a basic unit of analysis of tourism. A destination incorporates various stakeholders and can network to form larger destinations. It is also intangible with its image and identity which may influence its market competitiveness.

Tourism direct gross domestic product : Tourism direct gross domestic product (TDGDP) is the sum of the part of gross value added (at basic prices) generated by all industries in response to internal tourism consumption plus the amount of net taxes on products and imports included within the value of this expenditure at purchasers' prices ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.96 ).

Tourism direct gross value added : Tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA) is the part of gross value added generated by tourism industries and other industries of the economy that directly serve visitors in response to internal tourism consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.88 ).

Tourism expenditure : Tourism expenditure refers to the amount paid for the acquisition of consumption goods and services, as well as valuables, for own use or to give away, for and during tourism trips. It includes expenditures by visitors themselves, as well as expenses that are paid for or reimbursed by others ( IRTS 2008, 4.2 ).

Tourism industries : The tourism industries comprise all establishments for which the principal activity is a tourism characteristic activity. Tourism industries (also referred to as tourism activities) are the activities that typically producetourism characteristic products. The term tourism industries is equivalent to tourism characteristic activities and the two terms are sometimes used synonymously in the IRTS 2008, 5.10, 5.11 and figure 5.1 .

Tourism product : A tourism product is a combination of tangible and intangible elements, such as natural, cultural and man-made resources, attractions, facilities, services and activities around a specific center of interest which represents the core of the destination marketing mix and creates an overall visitor experience including emotional aspects for the potential customers. A tourism product is priced and sold through distribution channels and it has a life-cycle.

Tourism ratio : For each variable of supply in the Tourism Satellite Account, the tourism ratiois the ratio between the total value of tourism share and total value of the corresponding variable in the Tourism Satellite Account expressed in percentage form ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.56 ). (See also Tourism share).

Tourism Satellite Account : The Tourism Satellite Account is the second international standard on tourism statistics (Tourism Satellite Account: Recommended Methodological Framework 2008 –TSA:RMF 2008) that has been developed in order to present economic data relative to tourism within a framework of internal and external consistency with the rest of the statistical system through its link to the System of National Accounts. It is the basic reconciliation framework of tourism statistics. As a statistical tool for the economic accounting of tourism, the TSA can be seen as a set of 10 summary tables, each with their underlying data and representing a different aspect of the economic data relative to tourism: inbound, domestic tourism and outbound tourism expenditure, internal tourism expenditure, production accounts of tourism industries, the Gross Value Added (GVA) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) attributable to tourism demand, employment, investment, government consumption, and non-monetary indicators.

Tourism Satellite Account aggregates : The compilation of the following aggregates, which represent a set of relevant indicators of the size of tourism in an economy is recommended ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.81 ):

• Internal tourism expenditure;
• Internal tourism consumption;
• Gross value added of tourism industries (GVATI);
• Tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA);
• Tourism direct gross domestic product (TDGDP).

Tourism sector : The tourism sector, as contemplated in the TSA, is the cluster of production units in different industries that provide consumption goods and services demanded by visitors. Such industries are called tourism industries because visitor acquisition represents such a significant share of their supply that, in the absence of visitors, their production of these would cease to exist in meaningful quantity.

Tourism share : Tourism share is the share of the corresponding fraction of internal tourism consumption in each component of supply ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.51 ). For each industry, the tourism share of output (in value), is the sum of the tourism share corresponding to each product component of its output ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.55 ). (See also Tourism ratio ).

Tourism single-purpose consumer durable goods : Tourism single-purpose consumer durables is a specific category of consumer durable goods that include durable goods that are used exclusively, or almost exclusively, by individuals while on tourism trips ( TSA:RMF 2008 , 2.41 and Annex 5 ).

Tourism trip : Trips taken by visitors are tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.29 ).

Tourist (or overnight visitor): A visitor (domestic, inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist (or overnight visitor), if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as a same-day visitor (or excursionist) otherwise ( IRTS 2008, 2.13 ).

Tourism value chain : The tourism value chain is the sequence of primary and support activities which are strategically fundamental for the performance of the tourism sector. Linked processes such as policy making and integrated planning, product development and packaging, promotion and marketing, distribution and sales and destination operations and services are the key primary activities of the tourism value chain. Support activities involve transport and infrastructure, human resource development, technology and systems development and other complementary goods and services which may not be related to core tourism businesses but have a high impact on the value of tourism.

Travel / traveller : Travel refers to the activity of travellers. A traveller is someone who moves between different geographic locations, for any purpose and any duration ( IRTS 2008, 2.4 ). The visitor is a particular type of traveller and consequently tourism is a subset of travel.

Travel group : A travel group is made up of individuals or travel parties travelling together: examples are people travelling on the same package tour or youngsters attending a summer camp ( IRTS 2008, 3.5 ).

Travel item (in balance of payments): Travel is an item of the goods and services account of the balance of payments: travel credits cover goods and services for own use or to give away acquired from an economy by non-residents during visits to that economy. Travel debits cover goods and services for own use or to give away acquired from other economies by residents during visits to other economies ( BPM6, 10.86 ).

Travel party : A travel party is defined as visitors travelling together on a trip and whose expenditures are pooled ( IRTS 2008, 3.2 ).

Trip : A trip refers to the travel by a person from the time of departure from his/her usual residence until he/she returns: it thus refers to a round trip. Trips taken by visitors are tourism trips.

Urban/city tourism : Urban/city tourism is a type of tourism activity which takes place in an urban space with its inherent attributes characterized by non-agricultural based economy such as administration, manufacturing, trade and services and by being nodal points of transport. Urban/city destinations offer a broad and heterogeneous range of cultural, architectural, technological, social and natural experiences and products for leisure and business.

Usual environment: The usual environment of an individual, a key concept in tourism, is defined as the geographical area (though not necessarily a contiguous one) within which an individual conducts his/her regular life routines ( IRTS 2008, 2.21 ).

Usual residence : The place of usual residence is the geographical place where the enumerated person usually resides (Principles and recommendations for population and housing censuses of the United Nations, 2.16 to 2.18).

Vacation home : A vacation home (sometimes also designated as a holiday home) is a secondary dwelling that is visited by the members of the household mostly for purposes of recreation, vacation or any other form of leisure ( IRTS 2008, 2.27 ).

Valuables : Valuables are produced goods of considerable value that are not used primarily for purposes of production or consumption but are held as stores of value over time ( SNA 2008, 10.13 ).

Visit : A trip is made up of visits to different places.The term "tourism visit" refers to a stay in a place visited during a tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.7 and 2.33 ).

Visitor : A visitor is a traveller taking a trip to a main destination outside his/her usual environment, for less than a year, for any main purpose (business, leisure or other personal purpose) other than to be employed by a resident entity in the country or place visited ( IRTS 2008, 2.9 ). A visitor (domestic, inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist (or overnight visitor), if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as a same-day visitor (or excursionist) otherwise ( IRTS 2008, 2.13 ).

Wellness tourism : Wellness tourism is a type of tourism activity which aims to improve and balance all of the main domains of human life including physical, mental, emotional, occupational, intellectual and spiritual. The primary motivation for the wellness tourist is to engage in preventive, proactive, lifestyle-enhancing activities such as fitness, healthy eating, relaxation, pampering and healing treatments.

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tourist attractions

plural noun

Definition of tourist attractions, examples of tourist attractions in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'tourist attractions.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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“Tourist attractions.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tourist%20attractions. Accessed 28 May. 2024.

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• Plan Your Trip

What Is A Tourist Destination

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Euphemia Polson

• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome to the world of travel and exploration! As humans, we have an innate desire to discover new places, experience different cultures, and create lifelong memories. And what better way to satisfy this wanderlust than by visiting tourist destinations around the world?

A tourist destination can be defined as a location that attracts visitors from near and far due to its unique features, cultural heritage, natural beauty, or recreational opportunities. These destinations play a significant role in the tourism industry, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange.

One of the defining characteristics of a tourist destination is its ability to offer a wide range of activities and attractions to cater to various interests and preferences. Whether you crave adrenaline-pumping adventures, serene nature escapes, historical landmarks, or vibrant cultural experiences, there is a destination out there that can fulfill your desires.

Another essential aspect of a tourist destination is its accessibility. It needs to have proper infrastructure, transportation options, accommodation facilities, and amenities to ensure that travelers can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free experience. Whether it’s exploring a bustling metropolis, relaxing on a pristine beach, or embarking on a wilderness adventure, accessibility is key to attracting and satisfying visitors.

Furthermore, a tourist destination is often characterized by its cultural and historical significance. It may be home to ancient ruins, architectural marvels, traditional festivals, or museums that offer insights into the local heritage and traditions. These cultural attractions not only educate and entertain travelers but also play a vital role in preserving and promoting the destination’s identity.

Moreover, a tourist destination is not just about the physical attractions; it’s also about the overall experience. The hospitality and friendliness of the local people, the quality of services, and the availability of dining, shopping, and entertainment options all contribute to creating a memorable stay for tourists.

Definition and Characteristics of a Tourist Destination

A tourist destination can be described as a place that attracts tourists and visitors due to its unique features, attractions, and offerings. It is a location that people intentionally travel to, seeking experiences, relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment.

There are several key characteristics that distinguish a tourist destination:

• Attractions and Points of Interest: A tourist destination is known for its attractions and points of interest that appeal to a wide range of travelers. These can include natural wonders, historical landmarks, museums, theme parks, iconic landmarks, and cultural sites. These attractions are often the primary reason why people choose to visit a specific destination.
• Access and Infrastructure: A tourist destination must have the necessary infrastructure to accommodate visitors. This includes transportation options such as airports, railways, highways, and public transportation, as well as a range of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Accessible and well-maintained infrastructure is crucial in ensuring that visitors can easily travel to and within the destination.
• Hospitality and Services: A memorable tourist destination is known for its hospitality and high-quality services. Friendly and welcoming locals, knowledgeable tour guides, and a range of services such as restaurants, cafes, and shops all contribute to creating a positive experience for tourists.
• Cultural and Historical Significance: Many tourist destinations have a rich cultural and historical heritage that attracts visitors. These destinations may showcase local traditions, festivals, traditional arts and crafts, architecture, and archaeological sites. Visitors are often interested in immersing themselves in the local culture, learning about the history of the place, and experiencing unique traditions.
• Recreational and Leisure Activities: Tourist destinations often offer a variety of recreational and leisure activities to cater to visitors of all preferences. These can include adventure sports, water activities, hiking and trekking trails, wildlife spotting, spa and wellness options, and shopping experiences. This ensures that tourists have ample opportunities to relax, have fun, and make the most of their time in the destination.

It is important to note that a tourist destination is not solely defined by its physical attributes, but also by the experiences and memories it provides to its visitors. The combination of attractions, accessibility, hospitality, cultural significance, and recreational offerings makes a destination desirable and memorable for tourists.

Factors Influencing the Choice of a Tourist Destination

The decision to choose a specific tourist destination is influenced by a variety of factors that differ from one individual to another. People have unique preferences, interests, and motivations when it comes to travel. Let’s explore some of the key factors that shape the choice of a tourist destination:

• Personal Interests and Hobbies: Individuals are drawn to destinations that align with their personal interests and hobbies. Some may be nature enthusiasts and seek destinations that offer hiking trails and wildlife encounters, while others may have a preference for historical sites, art galleries, or culinary experiences. Factors such as outdoor activities, cultural offerings, or opportunities for relaxation influence the destination choice.
• Recommendations and Word-of-Mouth: Personal recommendations from friends, family, or trusted sources play a significant role in destination selection. Positive reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, or seeing enticing photos and experiences shared by others on social media can inspire individuals to choose a particular destination. The power of storytelling and firsthand experiences can greatly impact the decision-making process.
• Budget and Affordability: Financial considerations are crucial when choosing a tourist destination. The cost of travel, accommodation, meals, and activities all factor into the decision. Some individuals may opt for budget-friendly destinations, while others may be willing to splurge on a luxury experience. The availability of affordable flights, deals on accommodations, and a range of cost-effective activities can sway someone’s choice.
• Accessibility: The ease of reaching a destination is another vital factor. The proximity of a place, availability of direct flights, accessibility of transportation within the destination, and the overall travel time influence the decision. Some individuals may prioritize quick and convenient travel, while others may be willing to embark on long-haul journeys for a more unique and exotic experience.
• Season and Weather: The time of year and climate can have a significant impact on destination selection. Some prefer warm beach destinations during winter, while others seek cooler destinations for outdoor activities during summer. Weather considerations, such as avoiding hurricane seasons or extreme temperatures, play a role in decision-making.
• Safety and Security: The safety and security of a destination are of utmost importance to travelers. Political stability, crime rates, health risks, and natural disasters all influence the perceived safety of a place. Individuals are more likely to choose destinations that are perceived as safe and secure.
• Cultural and Historical Significance: Many individuals are drawn to destinations that offer rich cultural and historical experiences. The opportunity to explore ancient ruins, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, learn about local traditions, and immerse oneself in the local culture can be a compelling factor in destination selection.
• Special Events and Festivals: The presence of special events, festivals, or celebrations can greatly influence the choice of a destination. People may specifically plan their travel to coincide with popular events, cultural festivals, or sporting activities to get a unique and immersive experience.

It is important to note that each individual’s motivations and priorities may vary, and a combination of these factors ultimately determines the choice of a tourist destination. Understanding these influencing factors can help tourism operators and destination marketers tailor their offerings to attract and cater to the preferences and interests of potential visitors.

Popular Tourist Destinations Around the World

When it comes to popular tourist destinations, the world is filled with an incredible array of breathtaking and culturally-rich places that attract millions of visitors each year. Let’s explore some of the most renowned and sought-after destinations around the globe:

• Paris, France: Known as the “City of Love,” Paris captivates travelers with its romantic ambiance, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, charming streets, and world-class cuisine.
• Barcelona, Spain: This vibrant city on the Mediterranean coast boasts a unique blend of Gothic and modernist architecture, stunning beaches, a dynamic food scene, and a pulsating nightlife.
• Bali, Indonesia: With its picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, vibrant Hindu culture, and warm hospitality, Bali offers a tropical paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and spiritual seekers.
• New York City, USA: The Big Apple is a melting pot of cultures, famous for its skyscrapers, iconic landmarks such as Times Square and Central Park, Broadway shows, world-class museums, and diverse culinary scene.
• Tokyo, Japan: This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends ultra-modern technology, ancient traditions, and a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore historic shrines, enjoy vibrant street markets, and indulge in delicious sushi.
• Rome, Italy: As the eternal city, Rome showcases ancient history through its iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine and vibrant piazzas.
• Cape Town, South Africa: Nestled between mountains and the sea, Cape Town offers stunning natural beauty, including Table Mountain and nearby vineyards, as well as cultural diversity, wildlife encounters, and beautiful beaches.
• Sydney, Australia: With its iconic Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and beautiful coastline, Sydney is a vibrant city known for its outdoor lifestyle, stunning beaches, and thriving arts scene.
• Machu Picchu, Peru: This ancient Incan city perched high in the Andes mountains is a bucket-list destination. Visitors can hike the Inca Trail to witness the breathtaking ruins and panoramic views.
• Santorini, Greece: The mesmerizing beauty of Santorini’s white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets make it a top destination for romance-seekers, photographers, and those in search of relaxation.

These are just a few examples of the countless popular tourist destinations around the world. Each destination offers unique experiences, breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, food lover, or adventure seeker, there’s a perfect destination waiting to be explored.

Sustainable Tourism and Its Implications for Tourist Destinations

In recent years, sustainable tourism has gained significant attention as an important aspect of travel. It focuses on minimizing the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, culture, and local communities, while maximizing the positive contributions to the destination. Let’s explore the implications of sustainable tourism for tourist destinations:

1. Environmental Conservation: Sustainable tourism promotes the preservation and conservation of natural resources and ecosystems. It encourages responsible practices such as minimizing waste, conserving energy, reducing carbon emissions, protecting wildlife, and promoting sustainable transportation options. By preserving the environment, tourist destinations can maintain their natural beauty and appeal for future generations.

2. Community Engagement and Support: Sustainable tourism fosters community involvement and benefits local residents. It emphasizes the importance of engaging with local communities, respecting their culture and traditions, and supporting local businesses. This can lead to economic development, job creation, and a stronger sense of pride and ownership among the residents. By involving the community, tourist destinations can ensure that tourism becomes a positive force for the local population.

3. Cultural Preservation and Respect: Sustainable tourism values and respects the cultural heritage of a destination. It encourages visitors to learn about and appreciate local customs, traditions, and practices. This can result in the preservation of cultural identities, the appreciation of diverse cultures, and the protection of historical landmarks and artifacts. By maintaining and celebrating their cultural heritage, destinations can provide unique and authentic experiences for tourists.

4. Economic Stability: Sustainable tourism aims to distribute economic benefits more evenly and reduce dependence on a single industry. It promotes tourism that benefits local businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs. By supporting a diverse range of enterprises, tourist destinations can create a more resilient and stable economy that is less susceptible to economic downturns or fluctuations in visitor numbers.

5. Responsible Tourism Practices: Sustainable tourism encourages responsible behavior from both tourists and industry operators. It promotes mindful travel choices, such as choosing eco-friendly accommodations, respecting local customs, supporting ethical wildlife encounters, and engaging in sustainable activities. By adopting responsible practices, tourist destinations can mitigate negative impacts, minimize over-tourism, and create a more sustainable and balanced tourism model.

Overall, embracing sustainable tourism practices can have profound implications for tourist destinations. It can ensure the long-term viability and attractiveness of a destination, protect its natural and cultural resources, empower local communities, and provide a more enriching and authentic travel experience for visitors. By prioritizing sustainability, tourist destinations can lay the foundation for a more responsible and resilient tourism industry.

Challenges Faced by Tourist Destinations

While tourist destinations offer unique experiences and opportunities, they also face numerous challenges that need to be addressed for sustainable growth and development. Let’s explore some of the key challenges faced by tourist destinations:

1. Overcrowding and Overtourism: One of the biggest challenges faced by popular tourist destinations is the issue of overcrowding and overtourism. When a destination becomes too popular, it can lead to overcrowded attractions, strain on infrastructure, increased waste generation, and a degradation of the natural and cultural resources. This can have negative consequences for both the destination and the visitor experience.

2. Environmental Degradation: The influx of tourists can put significant pressure on the environment. This can manifest in various forms, including increased pollution, damage to ecosystems, habitat destruction, and the loss of biodiversity. The uncontrolled development of hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities can also contribute to the degradation of natural landscapes and sensitive ecosystems.

3. Cultural Dilution and Authenticity: As tourism grows, there is a risk of cultural dilution and the loss of authenticity in tourist destinations. The commodification of traditions, the proliferation of souvenir shops selling mass-produced goods, and the homogenization of local cuisines can erode the uniqueness and authenticity that attracted visitors in the first place. Preserving and promoting local cultures and traditions in the face of tourism development is a constant challenge.

4. Seasonality and Economic Vulnerability: Many tourist destinations are highly dependent on seasonal tourism, which can lead to economic vulnerability during the offseason. Businesses and local communities may struggle to maintain a steady income and face financial hardships during periods of low visitor numbers. Diversifying the tourism product and promoting year-round attractions and activities can help mitigate this challenge.

5. Infrastructure and Resource Management: Inadequate infrastructure and resource management can hinder the development of tourist destinations. Insufficient transportation systems, a lack of waste management infrastructure, inadequate water and energy resources, and limited healthcare facilities can impact the overall visitor experience and the destination’s ability to accommodate increasing tourist numbers sustainably.

6. Balancing Tourism and Local Life: Balancing the needs and interests of both tourists and local residents is a constant challenge for tourist destinations. Tourism can bring economic benefits, but it can also disrupt the daily life and social fabric of communities. Striking a balance between preserving local traditions, maintaining a high quality of life for residents, and providing satisfying experiences for tourists is a complex challenge that requires careful planning and stakeholder involvement.

Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of tourist destinations. Implementing effective policies, involving local communities, promoting responsible tourism practices, and adopting sustainable development strategies can help overcome these challenges and create a harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship between tourism and destinations.

Future Trends in Tourist Destinations

The tourism industry is constantly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences, advancements in technology, and global trends. Let’s explore some of the future trends that are expected to shape tourist destinations:

1. Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: The focus on sustainability and responsible tourism will continue to grow. Travelers are becoming more conscious of their environmental and social impact, and they seek destinations that prioritize sustainable practices, eco-friendly accommodations, and authentic cultural experiences. In response, tourist destinations will increasingly adopt sustainable policies, reduce carbon emissions, protect natural resources, engage with local communities, and promote responsible tourism practices.

2. Technology Integration: Technology will play a significant role in shaping future tourist destinations. Advancements in artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality, and mobile applications will enhance the visitor experience. Travelers can expect personalized recommendations, immersive virtual tours, real-time translations, and seamless online booking systems. Destinations will also utilize data analytics to better understand tourist behavior and preferences, allowing for targeted marketing and tailored experiences.

3. Wellness Tourism: With increasing awareness of mental and physical well-being, wellness tourism is expected to grow significantly. Tourist destinations will respond by providing a range of wellness offerings, including spa retreats, meditation centers, yoga classes, and eco-friendly wellness resorts. Nature-based activities such as forest bathing, hiking, and wildlife encounters will also be integrated into wellness tourism experiences.

4. Cultural Experiences and Immersion: Authentic cultural experiences will continue to be in high demand. Tourist destinations will focus on preserving and promoting their cultural heritage, offering visitors opportunities to engage with local traditions, customs, and arts. This can include immersive workshops, cultural festivals, culinary trails, and interactions with local artisans. Destinations will work towards maintaining the authenticity of their cultural experiences while ensuring respect and fair representation of local communities.

4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Travelers are increasingly seeking unique and less-visited destinations, moving away from traditional tourist hotspots. They crave authentic experiences and the opportunity to explore lesser-known destinations, supporting local economies and reducing overcrowding in popular tourist areas. As a result, off-the-beaten-path destinations will gain attention and investment, offering distinct attractions, hidden gems, and immersive cultural encounters.

5. Sustainable Infrastructure Development: Building sustainable infrastructure will be a priority for future tourist destinations. Improving transportation networks, enhancing waste management systems, developing eco-friendly accommodation options, and investing in renewable energy sources will be key. Sustainable infrastructure development will not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the quality of life for local residents and create a more attractive destination for visitors.

As the tourism industry continues to evolve, adapting to these future trends will be crucial for the success and sustainability of tourist destinations. Embracing sustainable practices, leveraging technology, promoting cultural immersion, and catering to the evolving needs of tourists will shape the future of tourism, creating unforgettable experiences while preserving the authenticity and natural beauty of our world’s destinations.

Tourist destinations play a vital role in satisfying our innate curiosity to explore and discover the world. These destinations offer unique attractions, cultural experiences, and opportunities for relaxation and adventure. However, they also face challenges that require careful management and planning for sustainable growth.

Understanding the characteristics of a tourist destination, as well as the factors influencing its choice, allows us to design experiences that cater to diverse interests and preferences. By embracing sustainability, destinations can protect their natural and cultural resources, engage with local communities, and create a positive and authentic experience for visitors.

As we look ahead, future trends in tourist destinations will revolve around sustainability, responsible practices, and technological integration. Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that prioritize environmental conservation, support local communities, offer wellness experiences, and provide authentic cultural immersion.

It is also important to acknowledge the challenges faced by tourist destinations, such as overcrowding, environmental degradation, and maintaining a balance between tourism and local life. By addressing these challenges through proper planning, infrastructure development, and stakeholder involvement, destinations can ensure a harmonious relationship between tourism and the well-being of its communities.

Ultimately, the future of tourist destinations lies in their ability to adapt and innovate. By embracing sustainable practices, leveraging technology, and focusing on diverse and unique experiences, these destinations can create memorable and meaningful experiences for travelers while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.

So, whether you dream of strolling through the romantic streets of Paris, exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Tokyo, there is a tourist destination waiting to captivate your senses and leave you with lifelong memories.

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What Is Tourism Site?

By Alice Nichols

Tourism has long been a popular pastime for people all around the world. The desire to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lasting memories is what drives people to travel far and wide. But before embarking on a trip, it’s important to have a good understanding of what tourism sites are.

A tourism site is any location or destination that is marketed and developed specifically for the purpose of attracting tourists. These sites can range from natural wonders like beaches, mountains, and forests to man-made attractions like museums, amusement parks, and historical landmarks.

Types of Tourism Sites:

• Natural Sites: Natural sites include national parks, beaches, waterfalls, forests, mountains and other natural attractions that are considered scenic or breathtaking.
• Cultural and Historical Sites: Cultural and historical sites can include museums, art galleries, monuments and landmarks that are significant in terms of history or culture.
• Amusement Parks: Amusement parks are fun-filled destinations that offer a variety of attractions such as roller coasters, water rides, games etc.
• Resorts: Resorts offer visitors an all-inclusive vacation experience with accommodation options ranging from hotels to villas. Usually located in exotic locations such as by the beach or in the forest.

The Importance of Tourism Sites: Tourism sites play an important role in driving economic growth of a place. They create jobs for locals by providing employment opportunities at various levels including hotel management staffs to tour guides.

They also help to generate revenue through taxes paid by tourists on various services they use during their stay such as hotels rooms rentals or restaurants. Additionally they help promote cultural exchange between different countries by encouraging visitors to learn about other cultures.

Factors That Determine The Popularity Of Tourism Sites:

There are several factors that determine the popularity of tourism sites:

Accessibility:

Sites that are easily accessible are more popular with tourists. They can be reached via road, air or water transportation.

Infrastructure:

The availability of good infrastructure such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation facilities can make a site more attractive to tourists.

Culture and History:

Sites rich in culture and history are also popular tourist destinations. These sites offer visitors a chance to learn about the history and traditions of the place they are visiting.

Effective marketing campaigns can help draw attention to a tourism site. This can include advertisements in travel magazines or online promotion through social media platforms.

6 Related Question Answers Found

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Attractions are a core component of tourism. They are often called “tourist attractions” because they tend to attract tourists. Attractions are the places, people, events, and things that make up the objects of the tourist gaze and attract tourists to destinations. Common examples include natural and cultural sites, historical places, monuments, zoos and game reserves, aquaria, museums and art galleries, gardens, architectural structures, themeparks, sports facilities, festivals and events, wildlife, and people. The history of attractions is inextricably linked with the development of the tourism industry. An attraction exists when a tourism system is created to designate and elevate it to the status of an attraction (Lew, 2000 ). Sectors such as transport, accommodation, and travel retail exist as part of this system because they support the desire for tourists to see attractions.

Historical evolution

Many attractions from ancient times are still popular today. Older attractions such...

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Benckendorff, P. 2006 Attractions Megatrends. In Tourism Business Frontiers: Consumers, Products and Industry, D. Buhalis and C. Costa, eds., pp.200-210. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

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Gunn, C. 1988 Vacationscape: Designing Tourist Regions. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.

Leask, A. 2008 The Nature and Role of Visitor Attractions. In Managing Visitor Attractions: New Directions, A. Fyall, B. Garrod, A. Leask and S. Wanhill, eds., pp.16-37. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Leiper, N. 1990 Tourist Attraction Systems. Annals of Tourism Research 17:367-384.

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Lew, A. 1987 A Framework of Tourist Attraction Research. Annals of Tourism Research 14:553-575.

Lew, A. 2000 Attraction. In Encyclopedia of Tourism, J. Jafari, eds., p. 35-37. London: Routledge.

Pearce, P. 1991 Analyzing Tourist Attractions. Journal of Tourism Studies 2:46-55.

Swarbrooke, J. 2002 The Development and Management of Visitor Attractions. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Wall, G. 1997 Tourist Attractions: Points, Lines, and Areas. Annals of Tourism Research 24:240-243.

Wanhill, S. 2008 Interpreting the Development of the Visitor Attraction Product. In Managing Visitor Attractions: New Directions, A. Fyall, B. Garrod, A. Leask and S. Wanhill, eds., pp.3-15. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

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Benckendorff, P. (2014). Attraction, tourism. In: Jafari, J., Xiao, H. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_12-1

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_12-1

Received : 30 September 2014

Accepted : 30 September 2014

Published : 19 September 2015

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Online ISBN : 978-3-319-01669-6

eBook Packages : Springer Reference Business and Management Reference Module Humanities and Social Sciences Reference Module Business, Economics and Social Sciences

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Definition of tourist noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• busloads of foreign tourists
• a popular tourist attraction/destination/resort
• the tourist industry/sector
• The tourist season here peaks in spring.
• The island attracts tourists from all over the world.
• The tourist information centre is right next to the mosque.
• The changing of the guard is popular with the tourists.
• package tour
• self-catering
• have/​take (British English) a holiday/ (North American English) a vacation/​a break/​a day off/ (British English) a gap year
• go on/​be on holiday/​vacation/​leave/​honeymoon/​safari/​a trip/​a tour/​a cruise/​a pilgrimage
• go backpacking/​camping/​hitchhiking/​sightseeing
• plan a trip/​a holiday/​a vacation/​your itinerary
• book accommodation/​a hotel room/​a flight/​tickets
• have/​make/​cancel a reservation/ (especially British English) booking
• rent a villa/ (both British English) a holiday home/​a holiday cottage
• (especially British English) hire/ (especially North American English) rent a car/​bicycle/​moped
• stay in a hotel/​a bed and breakfast/​a youth hostel/​a villa/ (both British English) a holiday home/​a caravan
• cost/​charge $100 a/​per night for a single/​double/​twin/​standard/ (British English) en suite room
• check into/​out of a hotel/​a motel/​your room
• pack/​unpack your suitcase/​bags
• call/​order room service
• cancel/​cut short a trip/​holiday/​vacation
• apply for/​get/​renew a/​your passport
• take out/​buy/​get travel insurance
• catch/​miss your plane/​train/​ferry/​connecting flight
• fly (in)/travel in business/​economy class
• make/​have a brief/​two-day/​twelve-hour stopover/ (North American English also) layover in Hong Kong
• experience/​cause/​lead to delays
• check (in)/collect/​get/​lose (your) (especially British English) luggage/ (especially North American English) baggage
• be charged for/​pay excess baggage
• board/​get on/​leave/​get off the aircraft/​plane/​ship/​ferry
• taxi down/​leave/​approach/​hit/​overshoot the runway
• experience/​hit/​encounter severe turbulence
• suffer from/​recover from/​get over your jet lag/​travel sickness
• attract/​draw/​bring tourists/​visitors
• encourage/​promote/​hurt tourism
• promote/​develop ecotourism
• build/​develop/​visit a tourist/​holiday/ (especially British English) seaside/​beach/​ski resort
• work for/​be operated by a major hotel chain
• be served by/​compete with low-cost/ (especially North American English) low-fare/​budget airlines
• book something through/​make a booking through/​use a travel agent
• contact/​check with your travel agent/​tour operator
• book/​be on/​go on a package deal/​holiday/​tour
• buy/​bring back (tacky/​overpriced) souvenirs
• sightseeing
• Recently Edinburgh has become a popular tourist centre.
• The Story of the Loch Ness Monster has attracted many tourists to the area.
• The city has unrealized tourist potential.
• The festival is accompanied by a huge influx of tourists.
• The theme park is the region's most popular tourist facility.
• The town is off the usual tourist route.
• Their economy is dependent on tourist dollars.
• the part of town most frequented by tourists
• He entered the country on a tourist visa.
• It was the beginning of the tourist season.
• Local roads cannot cope with the increase in tourist traffic.
• The Taj Mahal is one of the most important tourist sights in India.
• We have a large influx of tourists in the summer.
• We travelled on minor roads and tracks, away from the tourist trail.
• We visited all the usual tourist spots.
• come to something
• flock to something
• frequent something
• centre/​center
• destination
• influx of tourists

Definitions on the go

Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

What is a tourist? Tourist definition

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

What is a tourist? How you define the term tourist? Is there a widely accepted tourist definition?

When we are and are not tourists is not always clear. Am I a tourist when I travel one hour on the train to London for the afternoon? Am I a tourist when I stay with my Grandma in Scotland for a week? The problem is, that there is no clear answer to these questions.

In this article I will attempt to answer the question ‘what is a tourist’ by providing you with some definitions of the term tourism, alongside some thought-provoking connotations.

What is tourism?

What is a tourist, am i a tourist or a traveller, tourist definition, what is a tourist to conclude.

If we want to understand what a tourist is, first we need to fully comprehend the concept of tourism.

As I explain in my article discussing the definitions of tourism , tourism is a term that has no universally accepted definition. Tourism is the generic term used to cover both demand and supply that has been adopted in a variety of forms and used throughout the world. 

Tourism essentially refers to the activities undertaken by visitors, also known as the visitor economy. The tourism industry encompasses all activity that takes place within the visitor economy. 

This includes activities that are directly related to the tourist, such as staying in a hotel, ordering a meal or visiting a tourist attraction. It also includes indirect activities, such as the transport company which delivers the food to the restaurant in which the tourist eats or the laundry company that has a contract with the hotel for cleaning bed sheets. 

It is largely due to the indirect contributions to tourism, that defining and measuring the tourism industry is so difficult!

Tourism comes in many different shapes and sizes and there are many different types of tourism . There is mass tourism , niche tourism and special interest tourism. There is domestic tourism and international tourism . There is inbound tourism and outbound tourism .

A tourist is a product of tourism. Tourists are the people who take part in tourist activities. Tourists are important stakeholders of tourism .

There are many factors that the average person associates with a tourist. I have listed a few of these below:

• lying on a beach
• drinking cocktails/beer/alcohol
• visiting major tourist attractions
• staying in a hotel
• visiting a place with a different climate
• packing a suitcase
• flying on an aeroplane
• getting a suntan

The United Nations prescribes that tourists need to stay away from their home environment for more than one night but less than one year in order to qualify as a tourist. This is the criteria that is often used and cited within the academic literature. But in reality, this is not a universal criterion at all.

In fact, it is actually somewhat problematic that there is no universal criteria for what constitutes a tourist. Lets look at an example. In 2020 tourism was all but decimated around the world due to the COVID pandemic. During the height of the pandemic in Europe and much of the rest of the world, China began to make claims that their domestic tourism industry was once again booming.

OK great. But the important question here is- what is a tourist? How did/do China, and other countries around the world, measure tourist numbers?

Is the person who lives in Shanghai a tourist when they go to The Bund for the afternoon? Are they a tourist when they take a day trip to Hangzhou? Are they a tourist when they go to stay with their aunty in Sanya ?

This is not by any means a Chinese issue. This is a global issue. How can we compare tourism numbers between two or more countries unless we have hard and fast rules about what is or isn’t a tourist? It makes no sense to me at all…

The issue is that there is no clear rule about who is a tourist and who is not a tourist. Yes, there are academic debates discussing tourist typologies (e.g. Leiper , Cohen, Urry, Uriely, Wickens), but these don’t answer the basic underlying question of who is a tourist.

Whilst he also doesn’t provide any definitive answers to this problem, McCabe’s paper offers a critical review of what is a tourist, underpinned by sociological debates and concepts. I want to keep it simple in this article, but if you want to take a more in-depth look, I recommend his paper. You can read the paper here .

In recent years there seems to be an absurd trend that has grown, where tourists have developed a bad reputation. Tourists are portrayed as second-class citizens. Tourists are lazy. Tourists are dumb.

And this isn’t limited to the general public, it exists within the academic community too. In the tourism literature, tourists are represented in an overwhelmingly negative light, and often in critical or sociological studies in deference to more ‘superior’ forms of travel- such as backpacking.

The tourist is bad and the traveller is good- that’s what you will read if you Google the question ‘am I a traveller or a tourist’.

Most claims to differentiate between the two state that travellers are good- kinder to the environment, think more, travel slowly (i.e. backpackers), engage in cultural tourism . Whereas tourists are associated negative connotations, such as enclave tourism , economic leakage in tourism , lazing around on the beach, being drunk, taking too many photographs.

In reality, this is all a load of absolute rubbish. Are these ‘travellers’ staying away from home for a period of time? Yes. Are they visiting areas for leisure or business? Yes. Are they visiting tourist attractions? Yes.

So the reality is that these self-acclaimed ‘travellers’ are in reality- tourists.

What I suggest has happened here is that people have attempted to differentiate between different types of tourists , by coining the terms ‘traveller and tourist. But little do they know- the work has already been done, several times….

Within the academic community there have been many differentiations made between types of tourists. From Plog’s allocentric and psychocentric tourist typology to Cohen’s mass tourists, explorers and drifters, alongside many other studies examining tourist behaviours and motivations, clear differentiations between types of tourists have been made.

However, these typologies are not mainstream knowledge and outside of academia, most people will never have heard of this research. As such, the tourists themselves have taken it upon themselves to develop their own basic typology. The problem, however, is that they haven’t got it quite right- because in reality both classifications are indeed tourists.

In response to the evident desire to differentiate between tourist types, I would like to propose that we re-name these classifications. Instead of the term traveller, we could use explorer and instead of the term tourist, we use holidaymaker. This way, we can acknowledge that both types of people are tourists, but they are not tourists in the same way.

It is evident that the definition of a tourist is unclear. This makes comparability and accurate measurement of the scale of the tourism industry difficult. Whilst there is an urgent call for a universal definition to be developed and utilised, I doubt this will happen any time soon, at least not on a global scale.

Until there is a universally accepted definition of a tourist, I will propose my own tourist definition as follows:

‘A tourist is a person who travels away from where they live to partake in leisure or business [tourism] activities for a specified period of time. Types of tourists vary and tourists can sit anywhere along the spectrum between allocentric explorers and mass organised holidaymakers.’

We are all tourists at some time or another. Whether we take a trip to the seaside in our own country or whether we travel to the other side of the world to be volunteer tourists , there are many different types of tourism and many different types of tourists.

Do you have anything to add on the tourist definition debate? Please leave your remarks below!

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[ toor -ist ]

• a person who is traveling, especially for pleasure.
• tourist class .

to travel tourist.

/ ˈtʊərɪst /

• a person who travels for pleasure, usually sightseeing and staying in hotels

tourist attractions

• a person on an excursion or sightseeing tour
• a person travelling abroad as a member of a sports team that is playing a series of usually international matches
• Also calledtourist class the lowest class of accommodation on a passenger ship
• of or relating to tourist accommodation

Discover More

Derived forms.

• tourˈistic , adjective

Other Words From

• non·tourist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tourist 1

Example Sentences

South Dakota is the more tourist-friendly, slightly better weather, historic Mount Rushmore spot.

Amsterdam has an economy which is highly dependent on tourists.

Travelers, however, are eligible to have the tax refunded on goods they take home with them, which is what agencies such as Planet specialize in facilitating, giving it a clear view of how much tourists are buying.

In June, when peak season is typically getting underway, tourist spending was still 98% below its level last year based on Planet’s data.

Besides feeling safe, tourists may also be lured to local destinations given international travel currently comes with complicated quarantine protocols by governments in different countries.

Its graceful hotels and beautiful restaurants are totally dependent on the tourist trade.

It is the only tourist center Ukraine has left on the Black Sea, since Russia annexed Crimea last spring.

For the Brogpas, transforming into a tourist attraction may offer their community a way to generate much-needed income.

The two islands are now tourist sites for visitors from Taiwan and mainland China.

Not all Israeli gay propaganda is pinkwashing—a lot of it is good, old-fashioned PR to attract gay tourist dollars to Tel Aviv.

The tourist climbing tna, or Vesuvius' rugged side, puffs on though they perchance have long since ceased to smoke.

They have developed fishing and agriculture, and have brought the tourist into districts little visited before.

Mr. Frank Cook had insisted upon our being the guests of his firm on their tourist steamer Amasis.

My father knew him well, often talked to me about him, and told me stories of the excursion and tourist trade in its early days.

This was the first small beginning of that great tourist business which now encircles the habitable globe.

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Coral reforestation helps restore desolated reefs around Landaa Giraavaru Island on Baa Atoll in the Republic of Maldives.

For travelers, sustainability is the word—but there are many definitions of it

Most people want to support sustainable tourism, even though the concept remains fuzzy.

The word “overtourism” is a relatively new term—but its novelty has not diminished the portent of its meaning: “An excessive number of tourist visits to a popular destination or attraction, resulting in damage to the local environment and historical sites and in poorer quality of life for residents,” according to the Oxford Dictionary .  

As travel recovers from pandemic lows, travelers are once again experiencing the consequences of overtourism at enticing, but crowded, destinations. The UN World Tourism Organization, along with public and private sector partners, marks September 27 as World Tourism Day and uses this platform to discuss tourism’s social, political, economic, and environmental impacts.

This day highlights the importance of sustainable tourism —a framework for engaging travelers and the travel industry at large in supporting goals that include protecting the environment, addressing climate change, minimizing plastic consumption , and expanding economic development in communities affected by tourism.

Getting the facts

A National Geographic survey of 3,500 adults in the U.S. reveals strong support for sustainability. That’s the good news—but the challenge will be helping travelers take meaningful actions. According to the survey—which was conducted in 2019—while 42 percent of U.S. travelers would be willing to prioritize sustainable travel in the future, only 15 percent of these travelers are sufficiently familiar with what sustainable travel actually means.  

( Learn about how to turn overtourism into sustainable global tourism .)

In the National Geographic survey, consumers most familiar with sustainable travel are young: 50 percent are 18 to 34 years old. Among travelers who understand the sustainable travel concept, 56 percent acknowledge travel has an impact on local communities and that it’s important to protect natural sites and cultural places.

The survey has informed National Geographic’s experiential travel and media businesses and sparked conversations for creating solutions around sustainability. Our travel content focuses on environmentally friendly practices, protecting cultural and natural heritage, providing social and economic benefits for local communities, and inspiring travelers to become conservation ambassadors. In short, we see every National Geographic traveler as a curious explorer who seeks to build an ethic of conserving all that makes a destination unique.

Building better practices

National Geographic Expeditions operates hundreds of trips each year, spanning all seven continents and more than 80 destinations. Rooted in the National Geographic Society ’s legacy of exploration, the company supports the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Proceeds from all travel programs support the Society’s efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research.

National Geographic Expeditions offers a range of group travel experiences, including land expeditions, cruises, and active adventures, many of which take place around eco-lodges that are rigorously vetted for their sustainability practices.  

These independent lodges incorporate innovative sustainability practices into their everyday operations, including supporting natural and cultural heritage, sourcing products regionally, and giving back to the local community.

For example, South Africa’s Grootbos Lodge launched a foundation to support the Masakhane Community Farm and Training Centre. Through this program, the lodge has given plots of land to local people who have completed the training, increasing their income and access to local, healthy foods; so far the program has benefitted more than 138 community members.

As a media brand, National Geographic encourages travelers to seek out and support properties that embrace a mission to help protect people and the environment. Not only do these accommodations make direct and meaningful impacts in their own communities, but staying at one helps educate travelers in effective ways to preserve and protect the places they visit.

Supporting sustainability

The travel industry is crucially dependent on the health of local communities, environments, and cultures. As many experts note, we need to invest in the resiliency of places affected by overtourism and climate change to achieve sustainable tourism.

( Should some of the world’s endangered places be off-limits to tourists ?)

National Geographic’s coverage stresses the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and encourages travelers to step off the beaten path and linger longer, respect cultural differences and invest in communities, reconnect with nature and support organizations that are protecting the planet. Here are 12 ways to travel sustainably , reported by our staff editors.

Storytelling can help by highlighting problems brought on by tourism and surfacing practices and technologies to mitigate negative impacts. A key goal of our storytelling mission at National Geographic Travel is to dig deeper into the topic of sustainable tourism and provide resources, practical tips, and destination advice for travelers who seek to explore the world in all its beauty—while leaving behind a lighter footprint.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• SUSTAINABILITY
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CLIMATE CHANGE

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U.S. tourist is freed after facing jail in Turks and Caicos for possessing ammunition

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos — An American man who was facing up to 12 years in jail on this Caribbean island for bringing 20 rounds of ammunition on a vacation has been freed after a court ruling Friday.

Bryan Hagerich was arrested in February while on a vacation with his wife and two children. He pleaded guilty to bringing the bullets in his luggage and argued that he should be released because of the time he's already served and his admission of guilt.

At Hagerich's sentencing hearing, at the nation's Supreme Court on the island of Providenciales, Judge Tanya Lobban Jackson sentenced him to "52 weeks but 12 months suspended," meaning he will not serve any time in jail.

Jackson said she found exceptional circumstances for Hagerich, and cited that he had unintentionally brought the ammunition to the island, the impact that his arrest has had on his daughter and that he has no criminal background.

The judge told Hagerich to "be more careful," and released him. The Hagerich family were seen hugging and in tears after the decision.

Hagerich, a former MLB draftee, will now return to his two children in Pennsylvania after making a payment of $6,700, which his attorney said he is able to pay.

"This is a huge relief," Hagerich's father told NBC News in the courtroom.

No cameras were allowed inside court Friday.

After court, an emotional Hagerich told reporters he was "absolutely elated."

"Can't wait to get home — I have two kids that just can't wait to jump into our arms," he said while holding hands with his wife.

"This is what we've been waiting for for the last 101 days and to experience this here — in eight short hours to be home and hug my kids — it's the best day," Hagerich said.

Hagerich said his work isn't done until all the other Americans detained in Turks and Caicos, whom he called his family, are released.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., who met Hagerich and other detained Americans in Turks and Caico Island this week, said the decision is "great news."

"When we met with TCI officials a few days ago, they made clear that they wanted this situation resolved," Fetterman said in a statement. "They recognized that Bryan and the other detained Americans are not gunrunners — they are just people who made a mistake. I’m grateful that the judge recognized that the right thing to do was to send Bryan home."

Fetterman said he hopes the British overseas territory expedites the remaining cases of Americans detained there so they can also be reunited with their families.

Hagerich was the first of five American tourists facing punishment for taking ammunition to the country, which is forbidden due to recent legislation that carries a 12-year sentence for bringing unauthorized weapons or ammunition into the country.

The remaining four defendants were waiting nervously for the result of Friday's hearing, which could provide a clue to how their cases might be handled.

All the tourists say their charges are the result of an honest mistake.

The most recently arrested of the five is Sharitta Grier, a Florida grandmother who was arrested while on a Mother's Day trip when airport staff found two bullets in her carry-on luggage on May 13. Her next court appearance is scheduled for July.

Ryan Watson , from Oklahoma, who was arrested while on vacation to celebrate his 40th birthday, has a plea hearing on May 28. Although he technically already plead guilty, he has to have an official plea hearing. His sentencing hearing is currently set for June 7th. On Tuesday, Watson will also be requesting that his sentencing date be expedited.

Watson said the ruling in Hagerich's case gave him hope.

"I pray that I get the same opportunity to go home," he told NBC News, adding that when he heard the judge's decision in court he thought, "I'm one step closer to maybe seeing my kiddos."

"I know that our cases are similar but they're not exactly the same, so that doesn't guarantee my fate," he said. "So I just, you know, I just pray that I get to go home soon."

A group of U.S. lawmakers visited Turks and Caicos this week in an attempt to secure their release.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a heated session of the House Committee on Appropriations, in response to pointed criticism of his department's handling of the issue by Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pa., that his staff were doing all it could.

"We have a State Department and extraordinary men and women who every single day are working to get arbitrarily detained Americans back home with their families and loved ones," he said.

The Turks and Caicos prime minister, Charles Washington Misick, appeared unmoved by U.S. attempts at lobbying for the tourists' release, telling a session of the country's legislature: "Judges can impose a custodial sentences of less than 12 years and a fine that they consider fair and just in accordance with sentencing guidelines in each case."

"We do not target U.S. citizens, or any other nationality," he said.

Although, Misick also said that the relatively new 12-year sentence for ammunition possession had never been imposed and could be overturned in "exceptional circumstances."

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a  warning to travelers  in September for Turks and Caicos. The overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas has strict penalties for weapons possession.

Juliette Arcodia reported from Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, and Patrick Smith reported London.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

How many national parks does RI have? Depends on your definition of 'national park'

Every year, hundreds of millions of Americans make the trip to one of the National Parks.  

People marvel at the rim of the Grand Canyon, wait for Old Faithful to erupt at Yellowstone, walk out to coastal ledges to get sprayed with sea salt at Acadia.  

But Rhode Island finds itself a little left out.  

“Are there really no national parks in Rhode Island?” a What and Why RI reader wrote in asking, after an article ran in The Providence Journal about National Parks in April.  

Yes, and also no. Here’s the explanation.  

What is a National Park? 

As a primer, let’s talk about the difference between national parks in general, of which there are 429, and parks with the National Park designation, of which there are 63.  

The National Park System uses nearly 20 different naming conventions for the different recreational spaces they manage. There are national historical parks, national seashores, national historic sites and national monuments, just to name a few of them.  

All of them can be called “parks,” according to the National Park System.  

A National Park is a specific designation.  

“Generally, a national park contains a variety of resources and encompasses large land or water areas to help provide adequate protection of the resources,” the National Park System wrote in a post explaining the different names. For a sense of how large, more than 10 national parks are larger than the state of Rhode Island.

Rhode Island doesn’t have any parks that fall under this designation, but we do have four parks under NPS.  

Blackstone River Valley: National Historical Park  

Paying tribute to how the Blackstone River Valley powered the Industrial Revolution, this park focuses on the history of the area. Slate Mill, located in Pawtucket and open Thursday through Sunday, is one of the park's must-see attractions.  

The park has several sites beyond Slater Mill that people can visit in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. They include the Blackston River State Park in Lincoln, The Blackstone Canal Towpath in Uxbridge, the 18.2 mile Blackstone River Bikeway, and Captain Wilbur Kelly House Transportation Museum in Lincoln.  

More: How many people visit our America's national parks? Graphics explain

Roger Williams: National Memorial  

A small park, the Roger Williams National Memorial is a 4.5 acre spot at the foot of College Hill in Providence. It was established in 1965 to mark Williams’ “outstanding contributions to the development of the principles of freedom in this country.” 

The park has a visitor’s center and features a freshwater spring that was once the center of Providence Plantations settlement.  

Touro Synagogue: National Historic Site  

The oldest synagogue in the United States, The Touro Synagogue in Newport was designated as a National Historic Site in 1946. About 30,000 visitor go every year to take a tour of the interior and learn about the history.  

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route: National Historic Trail  

This National Historic Trail stretched through nine states, starting in Newport. It follows the path the Continental Army and French Army took in the Yorktown campaign, though it looks very different now. The trail connects historic sites, such as the battlefield of Yorkton and a revolutionary was re-enactment. These days, the trail is usually driven, as you can take I-95 and hit all the key sites in less than a day (if you don’t spend much time actually being at any of them).  

What and Why RI is a weekly feature by The Providence Journal to explore our readers' curiosity. If you have a question about Rhode Island, big or small, email it to  [email protected] .  She loves a good question.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: How many national parks does RI have? Depends on your definition of 'national park'

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Where To Stay In Tokyo: Nice Hotels In Tokyo For Your Pleasure

Our CabinZero team will help you find where to stay in Tokyo , whether it’s your first time or not in this beautiful city. It’s a huge place, so it’s no wonder you’d have a hard time deciding the best place to have a good night’s rest.

Tokyo is like a multitude of urban landscapes fused together. Each district is a city with its own distinct characteristics. You can expect the best quality of life and travel in every one of them.

However, the rooms tend to be small and costly. But you will find the experience justifies these downsides. A place to wind down after a day of exploring is just a godsend.

Best Places To Stay In Tokyo: Tips For Making A Reservation

Tokyo, what can we say about it but good things?  Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels.

Kyoto has many ryokan (traditional-style Japanese inns), true to its relaxing and traditional atmosphere. Hotels in Tokyo, on the other hand, hotels in Tokyo lean more on being modern and lively like the city itself.

Here are some pointers if you want some advice and tips on picking the best places to stay in Tokyo .

Types Of Hotels In Tokyo, Japan

From capsule hotels to rabuho (love hotels), there are all kinds of flavours in the busiest city in the nation. That said, their overall quality is consistent and satisfying across the brands.

• Western Hotels : This is the most common one in large cities. Western-style hotels range from luxury to affordable options for business and leisure travellers.
• Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) : Focusing on traditional etiquette and values, the ryokan is the best option if you want to relax and window at a hot spring spot.
• Shukubo (temple lodgings) : Visiting pilgrims and tourists can stay at certain Buddhist temples. Most of these lodgings are concentrated around the Koyasan.
• Business hotels : Aim at businesspeople, they make for an economical and no-frills stay. The rooms may be small and offer no fancy decor, but they can be good if you don’t mind being a little cosy.
• Capsule Hotels : Also known as pod hotels, the “pods” are small-sized rooms that fit only a one-person bed. They make for a good budget alternative to standard hotel rooms. Capsule hotels are popular among solo travellers.
• Rabuho (Love hotels) : As the name implies, these are designed for couples to have private and intimate moments. You can rent a room for a shorter stay, from a few hours to a night.
• Hostels and Dormitories : If you travel with a lively bunch, you want to stay in this accommodation. There’s often only the bare necessity for budget travellers.

Beat The Crowds

Being a populous city and a famous attraction, many hotels in Tokyo can be fully booked for one to two months. Therefore, it’s wise to book things in advance as soon as possible.

The booking will likely spike during important events such as the Golden Week and University entrance exams season. You should factor such periods into mind when making your travel plan.

Don’t Be Surprised By The Cost And Room Size

Clever design and furniture placement can do a great job of keeping you comfortable, even in a small room.  Photo by Daisuke Fujita on Pexels

On average, the hotels in Tokyo would be more pricey than those in other Asian cities like Bangkok . However, it’s the room size that takes most people aback.

“Is this what I get for this much?” is likely what runs through the mind of first-timers. The rooms are not large like the ones you are used to in the UK, but they more than make up for it with the thoughtful layout.

There are many theories and reasons why the rooms are small yet pricey. Some say it is due to the lack of flatland (most of Japan is mountainous), and some say it’s due to the limited space and overcrowding.

If you want to be sure, check the photos. If there are twin rooms with king-sized beds, chances are the rooms will be larger. You can check the hotel’s square area on major sites like booking.com.

To Smoke Or Not To Smoke

Many places don’t allow smoking on their premises. So be sure to check out the smoking policies upon booking. But that doesn’t mean it is hopeless for the smoker folks. There are often designated smoking areas.

Book A Place With Metro Stations Nearby

Trains are the Tokyoites’ major means of transport, so you shouldn’t miss out on them.  Photo by SeongGyun - stock.adobe.com

Let us tell you, lodging at a place near major train lines like Yamanote Line is a godsend. Want to go somewhere? Just hop on a 5-minute train ride, and you will be there within a snap.

Our picks in this article all check this box. The wards and the properties we choose are near at least one or two metro stations. If you want to explore the most beautiful destinations in and out of Tokyo , just take a train ride to get there.

Tokyo, to put it lightly, is a big city. It  is the most-populated metropolitan worldwide . The enormity is so spread out that Greater London can feel small in comparison.

But as dense as it is, every nook and cranny is filled with opportunities for an exciting adventure. And a nice hotel in Tokyo is an excellent base for exploration. Let's dive into the great choices in this lively metropolitan area.

The district is the epitome of how Japan's urban life is portrayed in the media - neon lights, narrow streets, shopping stores nestled together, and a bustling atmosphere.

There are plenty of shopping and partying opportunities so that fun lovers won’t be disappointed. To fully enjoy the youth heart of Tokyo, we recommend staying at a place that is near the JR Yamanote line for easier access.

Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu

Address : 1 Chome-12-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan

Phone : +81 3-5457-0109

Styles : Convenient Location, Stellar Views, Luxury

Noticeable features : Restaurants (Japanese & French styles), Free Wi-fi, Cafe & Bar

Despite its prime location, you’d be surprised to learn the prices are reasonable. Sitting right next to Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest and most lively parts of Tokyo, you won’t miss anything going on.

There’s virtually nothing to complain about regarding the quality of the rooms and facilities. Everything is spotless and comfortable. Paying for a bit more, you can enjoy the unbeatable city views.

Here’s how to find the hotel: come to the Mark City shopping mall and take a private lift to the 5th floor. The accommodation is directly connected to Shibuya central metro station.

The staff is attentive and helpful. They can speak English. Thus, non-Japanese-speaking travellers won’t have any problems communicating with them. There is a concierge service to help you with booking reservations and trips.

If you want a nice hotel in Tokyo to experience what the “Shibuya Scramble” is like, you know where to look now. Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu can be a solid choice for repeated visits throughout the years.

Nippon Seinenkan Hotel

Address : 4-1 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0013, Japan

Phone : +81 3-3401-0101

Styles: Mid-budget, Quiet location, Close to National Stadium

Noticeable features : Japanese public bath, Rooftop green area, Breakfast buffet

Nippon Seinenkan Hotel is within walking distance of the Shibuya and Shinjuku districts, yet it’s never crowded. The quiet location and comfy beds are the reasons why guests choose this establishment over and over again.

Despite the address being in Shinjuku, Nippon Seinenkan Hotel is located more on the borders of Shibuya and Shinjuku. It is also close to Tokyo Imperial Palace, the Olympic stadium and Sensō-ji Temple, a famous landmark in Asakusa.

Initially built in the 1920s, Nippon Seinenkan Hotel has accommodated people worldwide for over 90 years. Recently, it has been renovated and updated with modern touches to ensure the staying guests’ satisfaction.

The service is excellent, and the amenities are plenty and high-quality. There is a Family mart down the stairs, a cafe, a laundry service, and a well-equipped public bath. Let your exhaustion melt away when you spend time at this beautiful place.

Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya-jingumae

Address : 6 Chome-24-4 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001

Phone : +81 3-5774-5489

Styles : Mid-range, 3-starred hotel, Cosy & Quiet

Noticeable features : Japanese/Western breakfast, Free Ramen Service, Osen & Sauna

Further away from Shibuya, in a quiet corner, is Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya-jingumae, a high-demand hotel. If you want somewhere quiet, away from the hustle of Shibuya, this fits the bill.

If Shibuya is among the best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo , then Dormy Inn is one of the best choices for staying in the area. Just spend a few nights here, and it’s clear why the establishment is so highly praised.

Nearby tourist attractions include cat street, NHK Studio Park, Takeshita Street, etc., all within a mile of the hotel. If you want to travel to someplace a little bit further, like the Louis Vuitton building, Meiji-Jingumae or Harajuku stations are within reach.

The impressive breakfast they provide is a great way to start the day with. For recreational activities, there are onsens (hot springs) and a sauna for you to relax, especially after jet lag.

Other pleasant surprises are the bicycle rentals, mini manga collection and free ramen in the evening. Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya-jingumae is a cosy little hotel tucked away in a corner, and maybe that’s enough.

If you fancy high-end goods, from streetwear options to shiny accessories, look no further than Ginza. Tokyo’s luxury shopping district is one of the most popular areas for luxury departmental store shoppers.

If you want to spend lavishly, you know which is the best area to stay in Tokyo now. From numerous boutiques, coffeehouses, and restaurants, there is no shortage of ways to spend and enjoy yourself.

Hotel Gracery Ginza

Address : 7 Chome-10-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061

Phone : +81 3-6686-1000

Styles : Solo Female travellers, 

Noticeable features : Japanese-styled restaurant, Spa, Lounge

Hotel Gracery Ginza is a great place to kickstart your day in the land of the rising sun. When you open your eyes, you will be greeted by the cosy atmosphere and clean décor.

Part of why it’s been the go-to hotel for many people throughout the years is the gentle, caring staff and friendliness. As for the service, the amenities are decent, and there are self-checkout kiosks for privacy.

Zara, Uniqlo, GINZA SIX and other convenience stores are just a few blocks away. Another great thing is how secure it is. Solo female travellers will feel safe when staying on the Ladies-only floor.

If there’s one nit-pick, that would be the light, which is a bit dim. Certain guests may find it challenging to put on their makeup or do some reading. But that’s a minor inconvenience compared to the rest of what they offer.

Imperial Hotel Tokyo

Elegant and high-class, the Imperial Hotel Tokyo is a dream accommodation.  Nesnad ,  CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Address : 1 Chome-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8558, Japan

Phone : +81 3-3504-1111

Styles : luxury, old-time charm, well-known hotel

Noticeable features : airport limousine bus, restaurants & bars, Relaxation opportunities

While it’s true that hotels in Tokyo are generally costly, however, they won’t cost as much as in a major destination in Europe like Amsterdam . Although a bit hefty, Imperial Hotel Tokyo is one the best value for money.

The property is technically a short distance outside of Ginza, but it’s a shame to miss such a prestigious hotel. With 13 decades of experience since 1890, the renowned establishment’s staff will guarantee you anything but average experience.

If you want to pamper yourself or keep fit, there is a fitness centre, an indoor swimming pool, ceremonial tea chambers and a beauty massage salon. After a long day of walking, relaxation treatment is an excellent way to end the day.

Its location couldn’t be more convenient. Aside from being a 5-minute walk away from Ginza, Imperial Hotel Tokyo is also close to the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and Asakusa ward. Within 15 minutes, you can easily access those attractions.

Along with Roppongi, Shinjuku is one the best areas to stay in Tokyo if you want to experience the intimate, vibrant nightlife. It’s the best area to stay in Tokyo for about anything: shopping, sightseeing or dining.

However, Shinjuku also has its quiet moments. There are many green spaces, such as Shinjuku Gyoen, to escape the busyness of the city. To fully discover the many sides of Shinjuku, here are Tokyo’s best hotels to do so.

Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku

Address : 2 Chome-3-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0053

Phone : +81 3-3375-3211

Styles : Mid-budget, Western-style hotel, convenient location

Noticeable features : Coin Laundry, airport limo bus, Western-style meals

Whether you are a business or casual traveller, Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku is still a temptation. More than a place to rest, the hotel cares about your needs and brings you the most comfortable experience possible.

The property includes the airport limousine bus service. There are about ten buses to Narita Airport and Haneda Airport daily. However, some routes are suspended due to covid 19.

For sightseeing and shopping, you are spoiled for choices. Tokyu hands Shinjuku, Nakamuraya Salon Museum of Art, the gigantic Shinjuku Station and many more are all nearby. 

The rooms are not the largest, but they are decent for a no-frill stay. The amenities are more than enough, from razors and bath salts to coin laundry machines. This is also one of the rare Western-style hotels that offer continental breakfast.

Plus, there’s a building-wise water purification system. They all have clean water from faucets, showers, bidet toilets, and the laundry. This system is called SOU-BI-SUI and is supposed to be good for your health.

Is Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku the best hotel for tourists? Yes, if you want a place to prepare for your outing around Tokyo without much fuss. There’s not much impressive decor or unique services, but sometimes less is more, and you know it.

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku

For the money, it’s hard to find any excellent place like Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku.

Address : 7 Chome-27-9 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022

Phone : +81 3-6892-2032

Styles : Business hotel, Budget, Social distancing

Noticeable features : Non-smoking rooms, self-check-in/out panels, Currency exchange

If you want an affordable business hotel, look no more. Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku is an excellent value for the money. You won’t get high-end facilities for the prices, but it is one of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo for budget-conscious guests.

When you check in or out, you will interact with touchscreen kiosks. They have many language options and make checking in/out quick and easy. Instead of a contactless IC key card, your smartphone can be the key to lock/unlock your rooms.

All rooms in the establishment are non-smoking, which can be good or bad depending on which side of the fence you’re on. If you feel the urge to light a cigarette, come to the smoking space on the 1st floor to take a puff.

One little thing that could make your day is the water pressure, which gets praised a lot. The water temperature is adjustable and can be just suitable for many people.

The Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku staff can speak fluent English. Thus you can communicate with them effortlessly even if you don’t know Japanese. The best part? They are attentive and care about you.

Park Hyatt Tokyo

Address : 3 Chome-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-1055

Phone : +81 3-5322-1234

Styles : Luxury, 5-star Hotels, High-end

Noticeable features : urban spa, Pool, Featured in a movie

If you want the cream of the crop, this is undoubtedly the best hotel to stay in Tokyo and Shinjuku. Telegraph expert rating even dubs the place as a “five-star legend”.

The views are unrivalled, allowing you to take in the wide streets and towering skyscrapers from your room. When the weather is clear, you can see sensational views of Mt. Fuji from certain rooms.

First opened in 1994, yet its looks remain timeless. Its charm is even forever captured in the Lost in Translation movie. The elegant and upmarket decoration is simply a marvel. Everything, from the muted green corridors to the glass frame, is a delight.

The service is impeccable. The staff will go out of their way to ensure you have a wonderful time in this world-class hotel. Everyone will feel like they are treated right and special.

Tokyo Station

As you know, Tokyo districts come with their distinct personalities. The  Tokyo Station area is as lively and bustling as the city it calls home. More than a business hub, it is a base to start your dream trip in Japan.

As you can guess, staying near this strategic central ward brings you one major adventure: accessibility. From Tokyo’s best hotels here, you can freely explore regional cities like Osaka or Kyoto, not just in the town.

The Tokyo Station Hotel

Address : 1 Chome-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

Phone : +81 3-5220-1111

Styles : Cultural value, Historical building, Western-style

Noticeable features: European style, porter service, inside a station

This is the most obvious choice since it’s inside the gigantic station. The domed building is a rare window to glimpse into the past in a futuristic city that prides itself on innovation and modernity.

Dating back to 1915, the pre-war architecture is striking and from a time when the Japanese started to blend European and Edwardian features into their style.  Refurbished and reopened in 2012, the hotel retains its sophisticated charm and attracts guests from all over the globe. The rooms are equipped with modern facilities, and some even overlook the Imperial Palace.

There's a porter service if you travel in/out of the station platforms. It would be handy if you don’t want to lug around your luggage when you step down from the train. The same could be said for when you board one.

More than a nice hotel to stay in Tokyo, The Tokyo Station Hotel is a dreamy stay. You stay at it once and find that other hotels can’t measure up to this one. Don’t believe us? Why don't you book a night there and find out for yourself?

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi

Address : 1 Chome-3-6 Kyobashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0031, Japan

Phone : +81 3-3231-3131

Styles : Mid-budget price range, sizeable rooms, Edo recreation style

Noticeable features : traditional Japanese breakfast, Guest lounge, Cafe

If you can't book a stay at The Tokyo Station Hotel, this is one of the other top choices. Given its close location to the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station, Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi is among the best hotels to stay in Tokyo.

Besides the exceptional convenience, there are many aspects to praise. For starters, the breakfast isn’t extravagant but very fulfilling. The coffee in the cafe downstairs also generates many positive remarks from the guests.

The closeby staircase takes you to the underground mall and train station. Famous landmarks such as Sensoji Temple are all within driving distance. The only complaint would be the lift. There are only two for the hotel, and they are slow. So you have to be patient when using them.

The double rooms are the best bang for your buck. They are not as small as other hotels' rooms, which are typically about 10-12 sq ft. When it comes to size and service, this boutique hotel won’t disappoint.

There are plenty of the best Tokyo hotels for tourists , and you just need to know where to look.

Photo by hidefumi ohmichi on Unsplash

What Is The Best Part Of Tokyo To Stay In?

If you are a first-timer, Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku would be a hit. These areas offer everything from family-friendly activities to bustling nightlife. We are sure you won’t get bored exploring them for many days, or even weeks or months.

Other great choices are the Tokyo Station Area, Ginza, Roppongi, Akihabara and Asakusa. Most lodgings in these parts are clean and modern, as they are popular destinations.

Is It Better To Stay In Shinjuku Or Shibuya?

For nightlife, you can’t beat Shibuya. If luxury hotels and quality brand store shopping are your cups of tea, then go with Shinjuku. These two wards are close to each other, so it’s easy to put them both on your itinerary. 

Shibuya is young and energetic, while Shinjuku caters more to the upmarket and elegant taste. Both have a lot going on, just in different ways. However, for your first time in Tokyo, you can’t go wrong with either.

How Many Days In Tokyo Is Enough?

At a minimum, we recommend a 3-day trip to have the time and energy to explore the best the city offers. Spending about a week in Tokyo is a good idea if you want to indulge a bit more. 

Overall, it depends on how you spend your time and what you want to see. With a suitable itinerary and planning, you can visit the best places to visit in Japan within 3-7 days.

Where To Stay In Tokyo: An Adventure In Itself

Now you have a general idea of where to stay in Tokyo, the city of night and neon light. Our picks will be where you can fall back comfortably after hours of exploring the urban landscapes.

Staying in the best neighbourhoods does more than provide you with excellent access. From small things like hot drinks from a vending machine to bathing on-site onsens, it’s a chance to take in Japanese culture.

Have you ever experienced what it’s like to spend a night in Japan? If so, please share it with us. And don’t forget to press the share button so that more readers can learn about these beautiful accommodations and their beauty.

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50 Memorial Day captions to help you reflect and remember

Each year, on the last Monday in May, we commemorate Memorial Day.

This year, the annual holiday falls on Monday, May 27 , and, for many people, it means a three-weekend in which they can relax, take in a movie or invite the neighbors over for a backyard barbecue .

Beyond an extra day off of work, however, Memorial Day is a holiday set aside to recognize and honor fallen military personnel who've given their lives in service to their country.

To pay tribute to those courageous men and women , we've assembled of collection of Memorial Day captions to post on Instagram, Facebook or use however you see fit.

Often referred to as "Decoration Day," the day is a time set aside for loved ones to visit the graves of those lost to leave mementos or flowers in their memory . Officially designated a holiday in 1971, Memorial Day has been observed as far back as 1868, when it was first established in recognition of lives lost to the Civil War .

Now, more than 150 years later, the day of solemn remembrance recognizes servicemen and women lost in all wars. To help honor their memory, you'll find a variety of Memorial Day captions including short sayings, patriotic messages and Memorial Day quotes by presidents, political figures and other luminaries.

Use them in a meaningful post or to help inspire your own sentiments in showing your gratitude for those who've made the ultimate sacrifice for the love of their country and in the name of freedom.

Short Memorial Day captions

• Land of the free, because of the brave.
• The brave may fall, but never yield.
• Stars and stripes forever.
• Mine eyes have seen the glory.
• Let us never forget that freedom isn't free.
• Those we love never truly leave, so long as they live on in our hearts.

• In tribute to the many, in honor of all, we offer our gratitude.
• One nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
• Let freedom ring!
• Hand to heart, stars and stripes forever.
• Remembering their courage, honor and bravery, today and every day.

• To our freedom, we owe a debt we can never hope to repay.
• Never forget.
• One day does not seem like enough to thank all those who've sacrificed so much.
• For bravery, courage and valor, we thank you.

Patriotic Memorial Day captions

• Valor. Duty. Honor.
• Thank the brave, who serve on high.
• Integrity first, service before self.
• Give 'em hell!
• Home of the brave.
• To those who've gone before, we thank you for your fighting spirit.

• For answering your nation's call, we honor you.
• Always faithful.
• Forever in peace may you wave.
• For this is my country, land of free and home to the bold.
• Improvise. Adapt. Overcome!

• Born ready.
• These things we do, that others may live.
• Sacrifice: The act of offering something precious.
• Liberty, from sea to shining sea.

Memorial Day quotes to use as captions

• "We owe them a debt we can never repay." – Ronald Reagan
• "It is not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit." – J.R.R. Tolkien
• "Our reliance is in the love of liberty which God has planted in our bosoms." – Abraham Lincoln
• "This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." – Elmer Davis

• "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." – Winston Churchill
• "Valor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul." – Michel de Montaigne
• "Patriotism means to stand by the country." – Theodore Roosevelt
• "Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country." – John F. Kennedy

• "As I was walking that ribbon of highway, I saw above me that endless skyway; I saw below me that golden valley; This land was made for you and me." – Woody Guthrie
• "Scared is what you're feeling. Brave is what you're doing." – Emma Donoghue
• "The proudest human that walks the earth is a free American citizen." – Dwight D. Eisenhower
• 'O beautiful for heroes proved, In liberating strife, Who more than self their country loved, And mercy more than life!" "America the Beautiful," – Katharine Lee Bates

• "America without her soldiers would be like God without His angels." – Claudia Pemberton
• “God bless America, Land that I love. Stand beside her, And guide her, Through the night with the light from above.” – Irving Berlin, “God Bless America”
• "I regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." – Nathan Hale
• "How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy! – Thomas Jefferson

• "Who kept the faith and fought the fight; the glory theirs, the duty ours." – Wallace Bruce
• "A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself." – Joseph Campbell
• "The secret of happiness is freedom, the secret of freedom is courage." – Carrie Jones
• "The emblem of the brave and true, Its folds protect no tyrant crew, The red and white and starry blue, Is freedom's shield and hope." – John Philip Sousa, "Stars and Stripes Forever"

Captions to post for every occasion

• Best birthday captions to post in honor of the big day
• Cute and clever engagement captions for Instagram
• Sweet Instagram captions for couples
• Beach Instagram captions that capture the moment

Sarah is a lifestyle and entertainment reporter for TODAY who covers holidays, celebrities and everything in between.

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What to Know About the I.C.C. Prosecutor’s Request for Warrants for Israeli and Hamas Leaders

The International Criminal Court prosecutor requested arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and Hamas leaders. Here is a closer look at the court and the warrant.

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By Emma Bubola and Charlie Savage

The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said on Monday that he had requested arrest warrants for war crimes and crimes against humanity for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and the leaders of Hamas. Here’s a closer look at the court and the warrants.

The prosecutor is accusing both sides of war crimes.

The court’s prosecutor, Karim Khan, said in a statement that he was applying for arrest warrants for Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas because he had “reasonable grounds to believe” that they were responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity, which included “the killing of hundreds of Israeli civilians” in the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, and the taking of at least 245 hostages.

Mr. Khan said that the Hamas officials “planned and instigated the commission of crimes” on that day, and that they “have acknowledged their responsibility for those crimes” through their actions, such as personal visits to hostages shortly after their kidnapping.

The prosecutor cited accusations of murder, extermination, hostage-taking, and acts of sexual violence as war crimes. He also said he had reasonable grounds to believe the officials were responsible for acts of torture and cruel treatment.

Mr. Khan also said that he had requested arrest warrants for Mr. Netanyahu and Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, because there were reasonable grounds to believe that they bore responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity, including the starvation of civilians as a weapon of war and “intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population.”

Mr. Khan said that these crimes were committed “as part of a widespread and systematic attack against the Palestinian civilian population.” He also said that in his office’s view, some of the crimes “continue to this day.”

“International law and the laws of armed conflict apply to all,” he said. “No foot soldier, no commander, no civilian leader — no one — can act with impunity. Nothing can justify willfully depriving human beings, including so many women and children, the basic necessities required for life. Nothing can justify the taking of hostages or the targeting of civilians.”

The International Criminal Court was set up under a 1998 treaty, but the U.S. and Israel aren’t members.

The International Criminal Court is an international court that has jurisdiction to prosecute people for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity.

It was established in 2002 as a standing body to investigate those crimes under a 1998 treaty known as the Rome Statute. Previously, the United Nations Security Council had set up ad hoc tribunals to address atrocities in specific places, like the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda.

The I.C.C. is based in The Hague, a Dutch city that has long been a center for international law and justice. It is separate from the International Court of Justice, an international tribunal also in The Hague which is an arm of the United Nations and handles civil disputes between countries. The latter is currently weighing a claim brought by South Africa that Israel is conducting a genocide in Gaza . Israel has strongly denied the accusation.

Many democracies joined the International Criminal Court, including close American allies like Britain. The court has recognized Palestine as a member since 2015.

But neither Israel nor the United States is a member. The United States, which conducts numerous military operations abroad, has taken the position that the court should not exercise jurisdiction over citizens from countries that are not parties to the treaty.

That position, however, has been tested by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Russia is not a member, but Ukraine is. Last year, the court issued arrest warrants for President Vladimir V. Putin and another Russian official, saying they bore individual criminal responsibility for the abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children in the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. After a lengthy internal debate, President Biden ordered the U.S. government to share evidence of Russian war crimes with the court.

The arrest warrants have the immediate effect of limiting travel for targets.

Mr. Khan’s request for warrants must still be approved by judges on the court. If they are issued, the warrants would put both the Israeli officials and Hamas leaders at risk of being arrested and sent to The Hague for trial if they travel to one of the court’s 124 member nations , which include most European countries.

Presumably they would not go to countries that would arrest and extradite them, in which case they may never stand trial. But the effective travel restrictions would function as a kind of punishment in and of themselves.

“Israel will be more isolated after this action,” said Stephen Rapp, a former U.S. ambassador at large who headed the Office of Global Criminal Justice in the State Department. He said that if the arrest warrants go ahead, the named officials “will find it hard to travel to two-thirds of the world.”

The warrant request represents one of the harshest condemnations of Israel’s strategy in its war against Hamas and its campaign’s toll on Gaza’s civilian population. But Mr. Rapp said that Israel “has proved itself sort of immune to international pressure, ” and it was unclear whether the prosecutor’s actions would have an impact on its strategy in Gaza.

The I.C.C. cannot try defendants in absentia . It also has no police force, relying on member states to arrest fugitives and transfer them to The Hague.

In the case of Mr. Putin, the judges approved the request within weeks.

The prosecutor is accusing Israeli officials of intentionally targeting civilians and using starvation as a weapon.

Mr. Khan said that he believed Israeli officials were responsible for intentionally attacking civilians, but he largely focused on allegations of starvation, and extermination or murder “including in the context of deaths caused by starvation.”

For months, Israel has been criticized for the scale of civilian deaths, but Israeli officials have blamed Hamas for the toll, accusing the armed group of using civilians as a shield, its fighters deliberately hiding among and beneath noncombatants.

Under the laws of war, it can be lawful to pull the trigger knowing that some civilian bystanders are likely to be killed, so long as the harm to innocents is deemed to be necessary and proportionate to striking a legitimate military target.

Mr. Rapp, the former U.S. ambassador, said that prosecutors’ greater emphasis on accusations that Israeli officials have restricted the transfer of critical supplies of food and medicine to civilians may be because that issue is “relatively simple” compared to second-guessing targeting decisions.

“The humanitarian rules are very strict,” he said, adding that a state which conducts a military operation in an area of which it controls the perimeter must ensure that civilians have the means of survival.

“If you look at the black letter of international law in this area, it is actually very, very clear,” he said.

Israel’s foreign minister denounced the warrant applications.

Neither Mr. Netanyahu nor Mr. Gallant immediately commented on the decision.

Israel’s foreign minister, Israel Katz, said that he had ordered the immediate establishment of a special committee aimed at fighting the decision, which he said “was intended first and foremost to tie the hands of the State of Israel and deny it the right of self-defense.”

The “scandalous” prosecutor’s decision, he said, “is a frontal attack without restraint on the victims of Oct. 7 and our 128 hostages in Gaza.”

In a statement on Telegram, Hamas condemned the warrant requests against its leaders. It said that the prosecutor should demand the arrest not only of Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Gallant but of all “leaders, officers and soldiers who participated in crimes against the Palestinian people.”

Because of an editing error, an earlier version of this article said that the United States and Israel hadn’t signed the treaty that set up the International Criminal Court. They signed, but are not members.

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Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

Charlie Savage writes about national security and legal policy. More about Charlie Savage

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