TOURISM PLANNING IN EUROPE

Tourism planning within Europe is still dominated by an essentially 'economic' approach to development



Tourism planning within Europe is still dominated by an essentially 'economic' approach to development

Introduction

Tourism is one of the leading industries in the world, with meaningful impact on economic activity. It is important to know that any changes in tourism demand will have considerable effects on the economic development of the country. Economic approach to development includes the policies and process through which a nation improves the social and economic well being of the society (Badam, 2009, pp 125).

Tourism planning has become an important tool for countries to promote economic growth and development. It works as a mechanism, to generate employment in different sectors. On the other hand, rapid growth in the developed economies attracts foreign travels, which helps in increasing the foreign reserve of the country (Dredge, 2006, pp 83).

The rapid growth of tourism leads to an increase in household incomes and government revenues both directly and indirectly. In the majority of the countries, the development of tourism has undoubtedly contributed to economic growth. Although, tourism accounts for economic development but if poorly planned it will deteriorate the economy (Fletcher, 2008, pp 176).Tourism of any country if properly planned and implemented, improves the standard of living of individuals living in the country. The tourists visits a country, utilizes the services and pays for them, it all increases the income level of the country and ultimately the residents of the country. Majority of the countries plan tourism and its development for the purpose of economic development, as it is a major source of revenue for the country. Tourism has a strong, positive relationship with growth (Gunn, 2002, pp 48).Discussion

The discussion focuses on the importance of tourism planning and its impact on economic development. I am of the view that tourism planning in Europe is being done by an economic approach to development. Tourism planning in Europe has a great impact on the GDP which in turn leads to economic development. Tourism planning is accepted as the major industry or sector of any economy. The government policies and objectives discussed all lead to the same motive of economic development through successful tourism planning. The government and other entities involved in decision making have formulated different objectives for sustainable development, which helps in attracting more tourism and business activities. It all leads to the same objective of tourism planning i.e. economic development (Godfrey, 2000, pp 196).

As discussed, economic development is about improving the social and economical aspect of the society through effective planning and policies. Tourism is a sector which has great potential and ability to impact the economy of the country and in Europe; it is carried out by economic approach to development. It is important to note that nothing comes without cost; same is the case with tourism planning. When it comes to economic development, tourism planning has a few challenges to address and counter. Challenge of seasonality demand has a major impact on the policies and processes to be formulated. Seasonality in tourism causes underemployment and underutilization of ...