Understanding the Business of Tourism: An Introductory Text

This book outlines the facets of the tourism industry, introduces tourism products and services and provides national and international examples. With questions, discussion topics and activities, it enlightens students and teachers on practical and business-oriented knowledge on the industry, which is distinct from the traditional sources of information available on this subject.

The textbook covers all the topics common to most graduate courses in Tourism. While Part 1 intends to provide clarity and a strong foundation to students beginning their education in tourism, Part 2 and 3 form the core offering, providing a comprehensive look at the most important sub-sectors of the industry and focusing attention on the tourism industry of contemporary India. Part 4 outlines the issues confronting tourism and deliberates on the possibilities and opportunities that the future holds for the industry.

This book is the best entry point for any student enrolling for a tourism course, whether a diploma, degree or post-graduate. It will also empower young professionals already employed in the tourism industry to get acquainted with the fundamentals of Tourism.

Venu Vasudevan was an officer of the Indian Administrative Service, and served as Chief Secretary, Government of Kerala. In the tourism sector, he was instrumental in establishing a new tourism destination (Bekal) and served as Director and Secretary, Kerala Tourism. He led the surge of the tourism sector in Kerala and built up a strong private-public partnership, including Kerala Travel Mart. He played a pivotal role in rolling out the Incredible India campaign. He pioneered the Responsible Tourism movement in Kerala. He has worked extensively in the museum sector and served as Director General of National Museum.