AICE Travel and Tourism Review Packet Study Guide

Define Tourism.

Providing products and services such as transport, accommodation, and activities to customers (tourists).

Define Ecotourism.

Visiting a place to enjoy the natural environment without damaging it.

What are some examples of ecotourism?

• Gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

• Going to the Rainforest lodge in Sabah.

• Taking a bike or hike in Iceland.

Define Domestic Tourism.

People traveling within their own country.

Example: Someone from Florida taking a trip to New York.

Define Inbound Tourism.

People from other countries traveling into your country.

Example: A tourist from France visiting the United States.

Define Outbound Tourism.

People from your country traveling to another country.

Example: Someone from the United States going to Japan.

Define Mass Tourism.

When many tourists travel to popular holiday destinations, possibly during the same time.

Define Packaged Tourism.

A tourist’s travel/visit are organized by travel/ tourism businesses.

Examples: Expedia, Priceline, KAYAK…

Define Specialist Tourism.

When tourists visit destinations because of a particular special interest.

What are some examples of Specialist Tourism markets?

• Photography Trips

• Adventure

• Ecotourism

• Cultural Tourism

• Painting Tourism

• Wilderness Tours

• Sports Tours

Define Unpackaged Tourism.

Tourism centered on the tourist organizing each part of the trip by themselves.

Define Responsible Tourism.

How people (tourists, businesses, and governments) behave and take responsibility to reduce harm and increase benefits for local people, culture, and the environment.

Define Sustainable Tourism.

Focuses on making tourism economically, socially, and environment viable for future generations.

Define Ethical Tourism.

Tourism that avoids exploitation and treats people, animals, cultures, and the environment with respect.

What does it mean to travel for leisure?

Traveling for pleasure, enjoyment, or relaxation. It can be divided into day trips, overnight stays, and specific holiday types.

What are the different reasons for leisure travel?

Relaxation and Fun:

1. Nature and Adventure

2. Sport

3. Health and Wellbeing

4. Culture

5. Sightseeing

6. Special Interest

Explain why people travel for Relaxation and Fun.

People travel to enjoy their free time, escape routine life, reduce stress, and have enjoyable experiences. This is the primary motivation for leisure travel.

Explain why people travel for Nature and Adventure.

People who travel to see natural environments, exploring landscapes, hiking…

Examples: Going to Mount Everest, the Amazon Rainforest, the Great Barrier Reef…

Explain why people travel for Sport.

People who travel to participate in sports by either competing or watching them.

Examples: Olympics, Fifa World Cup, NBA Finals…

Explain why people travel for Health and Wellbeing.

People who travel to other places due to the medicine/ surgery being cheaper and easier to obtain (Medical Tourism). They may also travel because they enjoy wellness retreats and spas.

Examples: Hot Springs in Japan and Costa Rica, Yoga retreats in Bali…

Explain why people travel for Culture and Sightseeing.

People who travel to see and experience how people live in different regions. This includes going to festivals, museums, and heritage sights.

They may also travel to look at something different from what they usually see, such as Floridians going to Tennessee to look at snow.

Explain why people travel for Special Interest.

People who travel for a specific interest such as photography, culinary, journalism...

Define Business Travel.

People who travel for work-related purposes. The reasons why these business tourists travel can be summarized by the acronym MICE.

What is the M for in MICE?

Meetings with colleagues or customers. City destinations offer rooms to hold these meetings and may even provide accommodation and catering.

What is the I for in MICE?

Incentive rewards for excellent work performance. This could be a trip to the Bahamas for meeting the month’s quota.

What is the C for in MICE?

Conference or Convention attendance.

Conference: They hold large meetings to exchange information orally or visually, often asking and answering questions along the way.

Convention: A place where like-minded people meet.

What is the E for in MICE?

Exhibition or Trade Event visiting. It is a display event where people demonstrate their products or services.

What types of venues would best suit the needs for business travel?

• Conference Centers

• Business/Convention/City-Center Hotels

• Exhibition Halls

• Corporate Retreat Venues

What could a venue have to offer that would entice business travel?

• Meeting Rooms

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• Catering

• Airport Proximity

• Loyalty Programs

• Executive Lounges

How would staying with or close to friends and family increase tourism in that area?

• Encourages VFR Tourism.

• Visitors spend money on food, attractions, and transportation.

• Locals become informal tour guides, promoting the area.

• Increases the likelihood of a repeated visit because tourists feel more comfortable returning.

What are some positive effects of mass tourism in any given region?

• Creates jobs in hotel, restaurant, and transport industries.

• Creates and improves funding for infrastructure development (roads and public transport).

• Increases tax revenue.

• Allows for cultural exchange and global awareness.

What are some negative impacts of tourism in any given region?

• Environmental: Pollution, habit loss, overcrowding

• Social: Cultural erosion, gentrification, displacement

• Economic: Inflation, seasonal jobs, overdependence on tourism

All can reduce the quality of life for locals.

What is a tour operator?

A company that packages accommodation, transportation, and activities into One product. They work to simplify travel planning and support large-scale by negotiating bulk rates.

How do tour operators affect the tourism industry?

• Increase visitor numbers through affordability

• Promote destinations internationally

• Support local suppliers (hotels, guides, and transportation companies)

• Shapes travel trends through marketing

What are the advantages of using a tour operator?

• Convenience

• Lower prices due to bulk buying

• Safety and reliability

• Expert planning and support

What are the disadvantages of using a tour operator?

• Not flexible/ limited customization

• Fixed schedules

• Impersonal (You are not the only one getting this deal, and the next thing you know, you are in an overcrowded hotel)

What is a travel agent?

A professional who advises, books, and arranges travel for customers.

How do travel agents affect the tourism industry?

They help travelers make informed decisions and increase sales for tourism businesses.

What are the advantages of using a travel agent?

• Are experts in their field, knowing when to visit, visa requirements, etc.

• Saves travelers time searching for deals online.

• Can offer discounts, upgrades, or package deals that not everyone knows about.

• Offers financial protections (ATOL/ABTA‑style protections) to travelers.

What are the disadvantages of using a travel agent?

• Service fees

• Limited to certain suppliers

• Offers less independence

How can a travel agent and a tour operator work together?

Tour Operators design and organize travel experiences for commercial use, with Travel Agents acting as intermediaries.

What are the types of Specialist Tourism?

• Adventure

• Cultural

• Medical

• Sports

• Wellness

• Educational

• Dark Tourism

What is Adventure Tourism?

A form of travel that involves physically and mentally challenging activities in remote or exotic locations, often with an element of risk and personal growth.

Provide examples of activities involving Adventure Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: Ziplining, Mountain climbing, water rafting…

Best locations: Himalayas, Costa Rica, Sahara Desert…

Why: These places offer natural landscapes that support high-risk, high-thrill activities.

What is Cultural Tourism?

A form of travel focused on experiencing, learning about, and engaging with the culture, heritage, and way of life of a destination.

Provide examples of activities involving Cultural Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: Visiting Temples, Festivals, Museums…

Locations: Rome, Italy; Kyoto, Japan; Cairo, Egypt…

Why: These locations have deep historical and cultural significance.

What is Medical Tourism?

The practice of traveling to another country to receive medical care, often for lower costs, faster access, or treatments unavailable at home.

Provide examples of activities involving Medical Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: Cosmetic surgery, fertility treatments, dental…

Locations: Brazil, Thailand Turkey…

Why: These countries offer high-quality care at a lower cost and might even be internationally accredited hospitals.

What is Sports Tourism?

Travel undertaken to participate in, watch, or experience sports-related activities.

Provide examples of activities involving Sports Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: Attending the Olympics, FIFA, NFL…

Best Locations: Qatar, London, Switzerland…

Why: These places host major events and/or have world-class facilities to support them.

What is Wellness Tourism?

Travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining or enhancing one’s personal well-being.

Provide examples of activities involving Wellness Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: Spa retreats, Hot springs, meditation centers…

Best Locations: Bali, Indonesia; Sedona, Arizona; India…

Why: These places offer peaceful environments to relax.

What is Educational Tourism?

A form of travel where the primary purpose is to gain knowledge and engage in cultural exchanges, often through immersive experiences.

Provide examples of activities involving Educational Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: Studying abroad, university visits, tours…

Best locations: UK, USA, France…

Why: These places have strong academic and cultural institutions.

What is Dark Tourism?

The practice of visiting sites associated with death, tragedy, or suffering, often for educational, commemorative, or reflective purposes.

Provide examples of activities involving Dark Tourism, some locations, and why people choose to go there.

Examples: 9/11 Memorial, Pompeii, Ground Zero Zone…

Best Locations: Ukraine, Poland, Netherlands…

Why: These places have historical significance and educates visitors.

Why might some people prefer Independent Travel?

• They want more freedom when booking events.

• They want to have a more personalized experience.

• They like planning their own trips.

• They dislike group travel or fixed schedules.

What are some upsides of Independent Travel?

• They can change their plans at any time.

• Offers more privacy.

• Is generally cheaper.

What are some downsides of Independent Travel?

• It’s time-consuming.

• Might not offer support in emergencies.

• Are higher risk.

What are Ancillary Services?

They are additional services that complement the main travel experience, enhancing convenience, comfort, and the overall enjoyment for tourists.

What are the types of ancillary services?

• Travel Insurance

• Car Rentals

• Currency Exchange

• Guided Tours

• Airport Transfers

• Wi-Fi and Communication Services

• Hotel/ Room Upgrades

How do these ancillary services help a traveler?

• Reduces stress

• Improves comfort

• Provides safety and security

• Fills gaps not covered by main travel products

How can a traveler engage in sustainable tourism from an economic standpoint?

• Support local businesses

• Pay fair prices for goods and services

• Choose community-based services/ organizations

• Make sure that what you are paying for stays within the destination’s economy

How can a traveler engage in sustainable tourism from an environmental standpoint?

• Reducing waste: Try using a metal water bottle instead of using multiple plastic water bottles.

• Using eco-friendly transport: Try walking or riding a bicycle.

• Conserve water and energy

• Support conservation programs

How can a traveler engage in sustainable tourism from a social standpoint?

• Respect local customs and traditions

• Support local businesses

• Avoid exploitation of people or culture

• Learn basic local language

What are some forms of accommodations a tourism business may provide?

• Hotels

• Hostels

• Villas

• Guesthouses

• Eco-lodges

• Campsites

What are the different forms of catering?

• Self-Catering

• Bed & Breakfast

• Half-Board (Breakfast + Dinner OR Lunch)

• Full-Board (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

• All-inclusive (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner + Unlimited Drinks (even alcohol) + Unlimited Snacks + Activities/ Entertainment)

What are the different modes of transportation?

• Air: Planes and Helicopters

• Rail: Train and Cable Cars

• Road: Bus, Car, Truck, Bicycle…

• Sea: Waterplane, Boat, Ship…

What are Natural Attractions?

Attractions formed by nature.

Provide some examples of Natural Attractions.

Beaches, mountains, waterfalls, caves…

What type of tourists would go to Natural Attractions?

Eco-tourists, adventure travelers, nature lovers…

What are Built Attractions?

Attractions that are man-made.

Provide some examples of Built Attractions.

Theme parks, museums, monuments, stadiums…

What types of tourists would go to Built Attractions?

Families, leisure travelers, cultural tourists…

Define Vertical Integration.

A company controls multiple stages of production.

Example: An airline buying a hotel and a catering company.

Define Horizontal Integration.

A company expands at the same level.

Example: Two airlines merge.

What is Dynamic Packaging?

Travelers build their own packaging online.

What are some pros of Dynamic Packaging?

• Flexible

• Customizable

• Shows competitive pricing

What are some cons of Dynamic Packaging?

• Overwhelming choices

• Less consumer protection

• Time consuming

What are the benefits of online travel and tourism booking?

• More convenience

• Price Comparisons

• Instant Confirmation

What are some problems with online travel and tourism booking?

• Scams

• Hidden Fees

• Technical Issues

What types of customer activities may you find in a resort town?

Beaches, Spas, Water Sports…

What types of customer activities may you find in city destinations?

museums, nightlife, shopping…

What types of customers and activities may you find in countryside areas?

hiking, wildlife, relaxation…

What types of customers and activities may you find in purpose-built resorts?

Theme parks, golf, entertainment…

Why might accessibility be a drawing appeal to a destination?

• Easy (transportation is simple, faster, and less stressful)

• Inclusive to those with disabilities

• Makes a destination feel safe

• Inexpensive

Why might built and natural attractions be a drawing appeal to a destination?

They serve as primary motivations for travel for various types of tourists.

Why might climate and weather be a drawing appeal to a destination?

Specific conditions attract leisure tourists.

Why might historical and cultural attractions be a drawing appeal to a destination?

They bring appeal to educational, cultural, and dark travelers.

What are the different types of external customers?

Tourists, local residents, business travelers…

Where might you see external customers travel to?

cities, resorts, attractions…

How would external customers travel?

Some may take planes to get there, while others may use vehicles more suited for the road.

What kind of activities might external customers partake in?

Sightseeing, dining, shopping, recreational activities…

Explain recent economic changes that could affect the travel and tourism industry.

• Inflation: Higher costs from companies reduce the demand for tourism. May also change the type of tourism they choose.

• Economic recessions: Reduces tourist spending on non-essentials.

• Exchange rates: Influences where tourists choose to travel by making certain destinations cheaper/ expensive.

• Taxes and Fees: Higher taxes increase the total cost of travel, making some destinations less competitive compared to others.

Explain how social and demographic changes could affect the travel and tourism industry.

• Aging Population: Older travelers have more free time and disposable income. They increase the demand for accessible facilities and slower-paced activities.

• Lifestyle Changes: People want more wellness, fitness, and unique experiences, encouraging a growth in these types of tourism.

• Urbanization: People living in cities tend to be more stressed, using leisure travel to help with that.

How may health and security issues affect travel? 

• Health Issues: Travel restrictions, reduced flights, and tourists avoiding crowded/ high-risk areas creates a sharp decline in international tourism/ rise in domestic tourism.

• Security Issues: Destinations experiencing terrorism, crime, and political unrest will see immediate drops in visitor numbers as travelers choose safer alternatives. This means a loss of revenue, damaged reputation, and increased insurance costs.

• Natural Disasters: Infrastructure damage disrupts tourism, leading tourists to avoid these regions for months or years.

How have technological advances made a difference to the travel and tourism industry? 

• Online booking systems: Travelers can compare prices, book flights/hotels instantly, and filter trips.

• Social media: Influences destination choice and marketing.

• Improved transportation technology: Faster planes, safer vehicles, and more efficient airports.

Define environmental sustainability. 

Protecting natural resources and ecosystems so they remain healthy for future generations.

Give examples of environmental sustainability. 

• Using renewable energy (solar, wind, footsteps…)

• Recycling and reducing waste.

• Protecting wildlife and habitats.

• Limiting pollution and carbon emissions.

• Conserving water and energy in hotels.

Define social sustainability. 

Supporting the well-being, culture, and rights of local communities so tourism benefits people fairly.