Tourism is now recognized as being an economic activity of global significance. As the importance of the activity has increased, so too has the attention given to it by governments, organizations in both the public and private sectors, and academics. This book is an introduction to a complex and multi-faceted industry. It is written for two main audiences: for students of tourism and for those employed in the industry who want to know more about the structure, component activities, and environment within which they work. The book aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the tourism industry to encourage further study and to stimulate interest in the subject area. To advance these aims, the recommended 'Further reading' at the end of each chapter is selective rather than comprehensive. In writing this book the authors have tried wherever possible to relate theoretical concepts to empirical examples, many based on their extensive tinternational experience in the industry.