Thursday, May 20, 2010

The Best Resorts for Skiing

The Best Resorts for Skiing
With the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to start planning our next holiday trip with friends and family. Where else can we enjoy the snow, playing and having fun with loved ones than in some of the world’s best ski resorts?
Since the holidays are just a few months away, now is the best time to start searching for the best ski resorts we can visit and book early as these famous holiday spots can get fully booked as the holidays draw nearer.
TOP SKI RESORTS IN THE WORLD
If we still haven’t decided where to go skiing or we have no clue as to the best ski resorts available to us, there are a few suggestions from people who have been to these places and we can find these on the internet.
Top Five Best Ski Resorts:
1. Aspen Colorado – This is perhaps one of the best ski resorts that comes to mind when thinking about going on a skiing trip. It has beautiful snowy slopes that are perfect for beginners, intermediate and expert skiers. Although it could prove to be quite an expensive holiday, the money spent here is well worth it.
2. Apex Mountain, Penticton B.C. – For those wishing to go on a ski trip but do not have a huge budget, Apex Mountain is the perfect budget ski resort for the whole family. The slopes are also just right for kids.
3. Stowe, Vermont – Vermont is another one of the best ski resorts in the world that comes to mind when planning for a skiing holiday. There are actually two mountain slopes that we can visit here; Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak.
4. Chamonix, Mont-Blanc, France – If we want to try out one of the world’s highest Alpine peaks, then Chamonix is the place to go.
5. Zermatt, Switzerland – Finally, Zermatt in Switzerland deserves to be included among the best ski resorts around the world. While there are a few others still in Switzerland that offer great skiing activities, not one can top Zermatt.
There are still many others not mentioned here but these five are ranked as among the best ski resorts across the globe and any one of these are perfect for a ski holiday.
PLANNING AND EARLY BOOKINGS
Once we have picked the perfect location for our next ski holiday, second on the agenda is booking our trip. It is advisable to book early since this can prove to be a lot cheaper than last-minute bookings.
In fact, if we book during off-peak season, we might just get a considerable discount from our travel agent. There are likewise tips on how to save up on our holiday trips so we can likewise check these out on the internet.
If we ware going on a ski holiday for the first time, it is best to check if the ski resort can provide us with ski instructors, including our children so we can get the most out of our trip and really enjoy our first ski vacation.

Things to Do in Myrtle Beach

Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
The coastal city of Myrtle Beach is an award-winning travel destination, landing numerous "best of" claims to fame and it's easy to see why. Myrtle Beach earns its reputation through a combination of luxury oceanfront resorts and miles of sandy beaches coupled with a booming metropolitan area, a slew of day trip destinations, and an exciting nightlife. If you're looking for a top-notch vacation destination, look no further than this South Carolina hot spot.
For families - large or small and of all ages -- Myrtle Beach offers an array of attractions. Plan a visit to any one of the area's leading attractions or explore the area to discover lesser-known family-friendly spots. Some of the best picks for families include the Children's Museum of South Carolina which features hands-on exhibits spanning the educational arenas of science, technology, and culture, and Family Kingdom, an oceanfront water park combined with an amusement park attraction. Family Kingdom features no admission fee and an affordable all-day wristband option for access to rides which include thrill rides, family rides, kids' rides and go-karts.
Other family-friendly destinations include the Ripley Aquarium of Myrtle Beach which houses a wide variety of sea creatures on display, and Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark featuring art, animals, and plants in a natural garden setting. Combine these destinations with a walk down the newly opened Boardwalk and Promenade and daily trips to the beach, and you've got the makings of a truly memorable family vacation.
For the sports minded, Myrtle Beach is an attractive destination for its water sports opportunities, including surfing, scuba diving, and parasailing, as well as championship golf courses and more. Visit during the regular minor league baseball season and take in a Pelicans game or tee off on the Man O'War at Mystical Golf. If you'd like to drop anchor or just a line, Myrtle Beach offers fantastic fishing spots and chartered fishing expeditions for all ages and skill levels.
Those who prefer the nightlife will find Myrtle Beach doesn't disappoint. From seaside sports bars to live music and karaoke as well as dance clubs, you can find it all. Visit some of the locally famous shag clubs along the northern Grand Strand or check out the South Strand beach communities for bars with local flavor and cool drinks. If you prefer to try your luck, take a nighttime cruise aboard the Big M Casino, South Carolina's only gaming yacht which also features buffet dinners and live entertainment.
Shopping in Myrtle Beach ranges from the eccentric to the practical. With an array of stores from outlet malls and local boutiques to flea markets and antique shops, a unique shopping experience awaits. Combine shopping with dining at some of the unique - or familiar - restaurants situated in The Market Common or the Grand Coastal Mall and your retail therapy will be complete.
Even without all the available entertainment, Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice for an exceptional beach experience. Showcasing 60 miles of beach along the Atlantic, many of Myrtle Beach's oceanfront hotels offer amenities that are second to none. Choose from spa-like resorts, on-site golf courses, and oceanfront campgrounds. Luxury or simplicity - the choice is yours, and with affordable rates at many of the premiere lodging destinations, there's never been a better time for a beachfront vacation.
Myrtle Beach is not only a popular vacation spot but also a favored wedding and honeymoon destination. With quaint wedding chapels and historic venues, as well as beachfront opportunities, there are several wedding sites to choose from if your dream wedding involves a beach. Some hotels and resorts even have staff available to help the bride-to-be with the plans. Marriage licenses must be obtained in the state of South Carolina, with applications on file for 24 hours prior to a license being granted.

Four Miraculous Places for Tourism in Japan

Four Miraculous Places for Tourism in Japan
Kiyomizudera, Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple is the oldest and the most famous Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. The current main building was built in 1633 called Tokugawa Shogunate Times. The first Kiyomizu Temple building at here should be traced back to AD 798. Kiyomizu Temple is located at Otowasan and is known as the beautiful scenery around. There is a waterfall with 13 meters high at the foot temple, once visitors are allowed to jump straight into the water the window in temple, but because of security considerations, this behavior has now been strictly banned. However, the phrase of jump from the Kiyomizu Temple has become a synonym handed down in Japanese proverb that means act boldly.
Himeji-jo, HimejiHimeji Castle which was built in 1331 is one of the best preserved castles is Japan. Compared with Hiroshima and Osaka Castle, Himeji Castle didn’t suffer damage during World War II and it has been recognized as the greatest castle in three Japanese big castles, along with Matsumoto Castle and Kumamoto Castle par. The terrain is smooth surrounding the castle, so it is an ideal place for military fortress. In addition to the thick brick walls outside, a labyrinth of corridors and paths inside is also important defense system to confuse the enemy.
Peace Arch Park, HiroshimaAugust 6, 1945, an atomic bomb was exploded at Hiroshima, in a flash, the city became ruins. At the process of reconstruction, local government decides to retain the original site of the atomic bomb in order to remind and warn people the atrocities of war. As the subpoint of the atomic bomb, this beautiful park was the place 10 million people were killed in the tragic moment. Peace Park has been attracting tourists from all over the world. The meaning of it is not only memorization and deep recollection for the dead people, but also the sincere desire of peace for the future. In addition to the original explosion the roof, there are also monuments for killed children, Peace Library, Peace Museum and so on. Flame of Peace in the park never put out every night.
Kinkakuji, Kyoto Kinkakuji which was built for the Buddhist celebrations is one of most beautiful building in Japan. It was built in 1397 by the name of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Kinkakuji got the name due to two-story high of Kinkakuji was all wrapped by gold leaves. In 1950, Kinkakuji was burned because of a Japanese crazy monk and it was rebuilt in 1955, house pavilion and garden around are the most beautiful viewings at here.

Athens Travel - Top Things to do in Athens

Athens Travel - Top Things to do in Athens
When in Athens make sure you don’t miss these Athens highlights. The Acropolis, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is one of the most significant and most visited monuments in the world. It was the original fortified ancient "high city" of Athens built on the Acropolis hill, a prominent rock plateau high above the city, with commanding views and an amazing array of ancient architecture dating back to the Classical period of Ancient Greece. The main buildings of the Acropolis are the Erectheion Temple, the Temple of Athena Nike and the famous Temple of Parthenon, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, protector of the ancient city of Athens. The external pillars of the Parthenon are slightly curved to give an optical illusion as being straight when viewed from every angle. Other sites to view are the Kerameikos, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, and the nearby Odeum of Herodes and Theatre of Dionysus. There is a museum behind the Parthenon preserving many of the artifacts from the site.
Ancient Agora is the green parkland next to the Acropolis Hill with a very beautiful view of the Parthenon. An Agora was an open place of assembly in ancient Greek times where free-born male citizens would gather for military duty or to hear statements of the ruling king or council. Later in Greek history, the agora served as a marketplace where merchants kept stalls or shops to sell their goods. There is the Temple of Hephaestus, the best preserved ancient Greek temple, the Attalos Stoa and the museum of the ancient Agora.
Odeum of Herodes is a Roman theatre addition to the Acropolis, built in the city around 167 AD and located on the side of the Acropolis hill easily viewed from the front of the Parthenon. Today, concerts are held here and is where the popular musician Yanni recorded his album ‘Yanni Live at the Acropolis’.
Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in the city at 277 m (908 feet) above sea level and is a popular tourist destination for the spectacular view of Athens, the Acropolis, the port of Piraeus and the island of Aegina. At the peak are the 19th century Chapel of St. George, a theatre, and a restaurant. The hill borders the Kolonaki district and can be ascended by walking or by a funicular railway which climbs the hill from a lower terminus at Kolonaki, Aristippou street.
Syntagma Square is located at the centre of the city and is the business district of Athens. Many hotels, banks, shops, restaurants and airline offices are located in the area. The Parliament building faces the square where visitors can view the changing of the guards in front of the Parliament every hour on the hour. Many places of interest to visitors are located relatively close to the Syntagma Square. The districts of the Plaka to the south, Monastiraki to the west, Kolonaki to the east and Omonia to the north.
Temple of Olympian Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece, is a Greco-Roman temple in the center of Athens, southeast of the Acropolis. Construction began in the 6th century BC, but was not completed until the reign of the Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Only ruins remain today as the temple would have been destroyed by earthquakes.
Three Island Cruise is a delightful day cruising the beautiful islands of the Saronic Gulf. The cruise stops at Aegina (the first capital of Ancient Greece), Poros and Hydra. Passengers have free time for shopping, swimming or enjoy a drink at one of the many foreshore tavernas. This cruise is very popular and a highly recommended introduction to the Greek Islands.
Cape Sounion is the southern most point of Attica where the white marble pillars of the 5th Century BC Temple of Poseidon stand. Visitors are taken on a scenic drive along the coastal road past the popular beaches of the Athenian Riviera, set against a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views, offshore islands and rugged mountain terrain.

Southeast Asian holidays

Southeast Asian holidays
Australia's neighbouring countries in the ASEAN region are ideal holiday destinations. The region known as Southeast Asia lies to the south of China and north of the Australian mainland. It includes, amongst others, the countries Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore. With distinct cultures and varied natural sights and attractions, this relatively small area is crammed with diverse attractions, history, and opportunities for a unique and memorable holiday experience. Even better, with the favourable exchange rate the area is perfect for cheap holidays. Here are a few reasons why Southeast Asia makes for an ideal holiday destination:
Affordable: With the living costs in most Southeast Asian nations much lower than in Australia, the day to day living costs – accommodation, food and transport - of travelling or holidaying in Southeast Asia is very reasonable. This translates favourably into holiday package prices. Thailand holiday packages, for example will include flights, accommodation, food and transport for a fraction of the price of an Australian package holiday equivalent.
Cheap flights: Although you're still covering a sizable distance, flying to Southeast Asia can be very inexpensive. A range of budget airlines and holiday deals are slashing the prices of international flights, which means travelling abroad can sometimes be more economical than travelling within Australia.
Beautiful scenery: Southeast Asia boasts stunning beaches and coastlines, bustling and historically and culturally rich cities, and jungle laced interiors. A diverse range of landscapes and destinations will please a range of aesthetic tastes.
Weather: Southeast Asia enjoys a tropical climate, which means warm, fine weather. Although parts of Southeast Asia experience a rainy season, usually the sudden downpour once a day is a welcome reprieve from the heat and humidity! Southeast Asia is a perfect destination for beach lovers and sun seekers.
Proximity to Australia: Australia's relative isolation from the rest of the world means that holidays often involve long flying times and jetlag. As a region, Southeast Asia is one of Australia's closest neighbours, and with shorter flight times and time differences than other overseas destinations you'll be able to spend more time enjoying your holiday than worrying about your sleeping patterns and the long flight home.
Take advantage of the affordability, proximity, attractions and beauty of the Southeast Asian region on your next holiday. Ideal for all ages, visitors won't be disappointed with the friendly locals, amazing cuisine and endless list of sights and experiences awaiting the holiday maker in Southeast Asia.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Tourism and Sustainable Development

Tourism and Sustainable Development
Introduction
The Tourism industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the global market economy, the developing countries have been attempting to gain on tourism industry in an effort to try and increase their foreign investment together with financial reserves to improve their economy. Whereas accepting that the unrestrained increase of tourism industry may lead in grim environmental and also social issues, the UN has asserted that these negative outcomes may be managed and decreased. Observing that “tourism needs to be more sustainable”, World Tourism Organization (2007). In the recent past the issue of sustainable tourism has continued to attract more attention. The question is being debated is whether the tourism industry thus, can be driven towards being sustainable in the present prevailing global and political regimes which emphasizes the competition and globalization in the industry.

To address this subject: Tourism and Sustainable Development, the study paper will carry on, along the following field: tourism will be explained for reasons of theoretical clarity; importance of tourism will be highlighted, types of tourism will be stated and sustainable tourism the centre of the paper, will be discussed at length; and lastly “the way forward” in terms of a conclusion will be provided

What is tourism?

What is tourism?
Tourism entails traveling for mainly recreational or relaxation reasons, or the providing services in order of supporting this recreational travel. According to the World Tourism Organization tourists are individuals who “travel to and reside in locations outside their customary environment for less than one successive year for vacation, business and other reasons not associated to the exercise of an activity remunerated from within the place visited”. Currently tourism is a very popular worldwide recreational activity for many people. Statistics indicates that in the year 2006, more than 842 million global tourist visits were reported (World Tourism Organization, 2007)

In addition Milne (1998) described tourism as being the total summation of the phenomenon and relations emanating from traveling and staying of non-residents, as far as the non-residents don’t permanently reside in the area they are visiting and are not associated with income generating activities. Where in1981, the International Association of Scientific Experts in Tourism gave a definition of Tourism, as specific activities chosen by preference and done away from the home location (Milne, 1998)

Importance of tourism industry

Importance of tourism industry
Tourism industry is crucial for a lot of countries, owing to the huge income of cash for brought through businesses between the country and the visiting tourists by buying their products and also services, the employment opportunities the industry creates in the service tourism industry and related service industries. The service industries comprise transportation and communication services for example cruise ships, accommodation services for instance hotels and lodges, entertainment activities, and more hospitality industry activities for example resorts

Types of tourism

Types of tourism
According to the classification given by the United Nations, there are three main categories of tourism these are:
1. Domestic tourism; which entails inhabitants of a particular country traveling just within that country
2. Inbound tourism; entails non-residents people traveling in a particular country
3. Outbound tourism; entails residents visiting in a different country (McKercher,1993)
Lately, there has been a shift in the tourism industry where by operators of the industry are shifting from promoting inbound tourism to promoting intrabound tourism since numerous countries are currently experiencing harsh competition in relations to inbound tourism.

Sustainable tourism

Sustainable tourism
There are several diverse definitions regarding sustainable tourism, however, sustainable tourism can be defined as an industry that endeavours to create a less effect upon the natural environment as well as the local or domestic culture, whilst assisting to create earnings and employment opportunities for local people, and also promoting the protection of the ecosystems in the local area. Sustainable tourism is a kind of responsible tourism that is ecologically and also culturally responsive Britton (1991).

International economists predict a continuing global tourism increase, varying from three to six percent yearly which depends on the region. Tourism industry being among the world's biggest and highly increasing industries, the continuous increase will put a lot of pressure on existing biologically varied habitats that are frequently used in supporting mass tourism where they are found. Tourists who are promoting sustainable tourism are conscious of these risks and look for protecting the tourist destinations they visit and protecting the tourism industry. These tourists undergo a lot of responsibilities in reducing the effect of tourism on biodiversity and the communities, which includes:

• Getting informed of cultural aspects, political system, and the economy of communities that being visited
• Predicting and respecting the local culture assumptions and expectations
• Making a Contribution to the intercultural appreciative and tolerance
• Giving Support to integrity of the local culture through supporting businesses that conserve the cultural heritage
• Giving Support to the local economies through buying local product and taking part in small, local trade
• Conserving resources available by looking for businesses which are environmentally mindful, and through using the slightest possible quantity of non-renewable products

The local communities have huge responsibilities to undertake in sustainable tourism as well. Sustainable tourism entails local communities have an active participation and taking accountability in this tourism industry. For instance, locals can vend their local handicrafts to the tourists or merely chat with tourists so as to offer the tourist a genuine picture of their local culture which they practice.

What Sustainable Tourism entails

What Sustainable Tourism entails
It’s informative: Tourists not only discover about the destination their visit, they also find out how to assist sustain the destination whilst enjoying their own visiting experiences. Locals find out that the common and familiar features are of interest and significance to the outsiders (tourist).

Supports integrity of the location: Destination-savvy tourists try to find out businesses which highlight the nature of the locals in relation to heritage, cuisine, aesthetics, architecture and ecology; Tourism earnings in return lift locals’ perceived worth of those resources.

It benefits locals; tourist businesses try hard to offer employment and training to the local community, purchase local products, and utilize local based services.

It conserves local resources; environmentally conscious tourists support businesses which lessen energy consumption, pollution, water usage, waste, landscaping chemicals, and needless night-time lighting.

It respects the local culture and custom: Foreign tourists study and also examine local custom, including the use of a small number of courtesy phrases using the local community language; locals get to know how to tackle foreign expectations which might be different from what they possess.

Does not misuse its product; Stakeholders predict expansion strains and use limitations and management procedures to avert the “prized to death” condition. Business people collaborate in sustaining the natural habitations, heritage spots, scenic appealing sites, and the local culture of the community.

It endeavours for quality but not quantity; Communities evaluate tourism achievement not through the absolute numbers of tourists, but through the duration of their stay, cash spent by the tourists, and the quality of their experience.

It means grand trips; satisfied, thrilled tourists bring back new understanding to their homes and send off friends to enjoy the same aspect; which offers continuous business for the tourist destination. (Drake, 1991)

Tourism activities

Tourism activities
Tourist activities the way they are usually defined in the industry, basically entails transportation and also hosting of tourists within local communities that is tourist destinations, whereby, tourist products are utilized. None other industry has such a structure where the consumers go where the products are instead of the products being moved to the consumer in his/her own locality. This unique tourism industry structure brings around also a distinctive social effects upon the local community where the tourists visits, which includes but not limited to disruption of the local community culture, customs and lifestyle, spread of diseases which are infectious, modifications in the local demographics and also changes in the local housing as well as labour market.

The main product of the tourism industry is not a product that is created by the tourism industry; rather in many times it is the heritage, legacy and wealth of the local community which serves as a tourist attraction. The main business activity in the industry is promoting the appealing features of the local community, move visitors into the local community handle hospitality and direct the activities of the visiting tourists, and offer the tourists products and services to buy in the course of their stay in the community. If in any case these business activities are degrading the local community’s wealth and heritage the that community will suffer more directly compared to the consumer (tourist), who in case will return back to his/her own community with no accountability or awareness of negative impacts of his/her tourist activities undertaken. (Drake, 1991)

Tourist activities could possibly specifically, degrade social and the natural wealth of a given local community. The invasion of huge numbers of foreigners who are not informed into a local social system can easily undermine the pre-existing social values and relationships. To address these issues new concept and model have been formulated to being about sustainable tourism.
We are going to examine three of these new concepts which are;
1. Ecotourism
2. Coastal tourism
3. Community participation tourism

Ecotourism

Ecotourism
Ecotourism is defined as conscientious tour to natural regions which preserves environment and also sustains the interests of local community. At times it is also defined as a sustainable tourism sub-group or a subdivision of the bigger nature tourism industry. It comprises a learning/ interpretation experience that is conveyed to small groupings of tourist by small-size businesses, and emphasizes local community ownership, mainly for rural community. (Drake, 1991)

Heather Robinson (2006) defines Ecotourism as a division of sustainable tourism which differs with other divisions through its focusing on the ecology. Ecotourism is seen as sustainable tourism which makes contributions to the conservation and protection of natural as well as cultural inheritance of the local community; this is achieved through involving the local and native communities in planning, operation, development of the ecotourism activities to make a contribution to the local community welfare;

In other words ecotourism implies whereas practicing any sort of tourism category, individual must not damage nature in any way. For today's rapid changing world and increasing tourism, ecotourism provides an effective ways through which individuals can protect nature from adverse effects of rapidly growing industry, which is creating a very polluting environment, by respecting Natural world and its rules, thus it is anticipated that the ecosystem can then be maintained, permitting future tourism with no natural resources being worn out as rapidly. (Drake, 1991)

What ecotourism entails

What ecotourism entails
Ecotourism offers local benefits to the local community in terms of; environmentally, economically and culturally. An eco-tourist will go bird watching using a native guide, resides in locally managed eco-lodge and makes contribution to the local community economy.

How does Sustainable Tourism get in?
Sustainable Tourism entails each of the sectors of the tourism industry with directives and criterion which seek in reducing the environmental effects, specifically the using of non-renewable sources, the use of assessable benchmarks, as well as to improving tourism’s input to sustainable development plus environmental conservation.

Sustainable Ecotourism

Sustainable Ecotourism
• Reduces environmental impacts through the use of benchmarks
• Improves contributions to local community sustainable development
• Requires smallest possible use of non-renewable resources
• Sustains the welfare of local community
• Emphasizes local community ownership
• Supports attempts to conserve and protect the environment
• Makes a Contribution to the biodiversity
Analysing ecotourism
However, McHarry and Gardiner (2002) states that, a lot of eco-tourism arguments regarding its benefits seem to be exaggerated, or are indebted a lot to the labelling and also marketing of ecotourism than actual sustainability. In many cases it has been observed that many of ecotourism projects are continually planned and implemented without local community approval and their support, yet these projects frequently threaten the local social aspects and cultures, their economies, and the natural resource base. McHarry and Gardiner (2002) regard ecotourism as an “eco-façade”: an approach covering up the conventional tourism industry's exploitative and consumptive practices through “greening” it.

Of specific apprehension is the circumventing of critical questions regarding the promoting of ecotourism, concerning global economy, important political and social issues for example the misdistribution of resources; inequalities within political representation as well as power; and the increase of unsustainable utilization patterns are either ignored or marginalised.

Shackley (1998) observes that diverse social and also economic activities of the local community are substituted by ecotourism monoculture in a locality. Contrary to arguments that the local community benefits, the local community do not essentially benefit from the ecotourism activities, Tourism- interrelated employment opportunities is very much overrated. Locals are normally left to do low-paying jobs for example porters, tour guides and souvenir vendors or food vendors. More so, the locals are not guaranteed of full-year employment since they might be out of a job during the off-peak season. A large amount of money, just like in conventional tourism, goes to foreign airlines operators, the tourism operators and private developers and not the local community.

Coastal tourism

Coastal tourism
Lots of coastal regions are currently experiencing particular strain from the sea change development in standard of livings and increasing tourists who keep on visiting these areas. Coastal surroundings are restricted in size consisting of merely a narrow coastal strip alongside the perimeter of the oceans. Coastal regions are frequently the very first surroundings to undergo the damaging effects of tourism. Good planning and also management controls could possibly decrease the negative effect on the coastal environments, and make sure that the investment in tourism ventures enhances sustainable coastal tourism. (Drake, 1991)

Investment in proper infrastructure of coastal tourism can as well help the coastal environments to support bigger numbers of locals and also tourists. Cases are such as paved walkways which support big numbers of the coastal tourists. An equal number of tourists visiting an underdeveloped coastline probably would sense a lot more crowded, thus damage susceptible coastal environment. Another example of infrastructure which gives support to the natural carrying capacity the environment in supporting tourist and local lifestyles is Beach nourishment (Drake, 1991)

Thus the aim of sustainable coastal tourism development should be:
• Recognizing the economic worth of present coastal ecosystem, heritage sites and towns through offering opportunities for local income generating through using controlled tourist utilization of these regions.
• Formulate tourism development programs in cooperation with other local stakeholders to be suitable to distinct social and ecological features of each one of the coastal site.
• Use the tourism investment in developing and upgrading the watershed, waste water management and solid waste systems of coastal regions.

Analysing sustainable coastal tourism

Analysing sustainable coastal tourism
The foremost important step in coastal sustainable management of the local costal regions by a government at each level, needs to be working in collaboration with he private organisations and investors, the government should establish selected coastal parts where future development will forever be restricted. Protecting these parts must be strictly enforced. In parts where development can be environmentally and socially justified, then tourism development ought to be built as a model of low-impact economical activity in relation to some other development option.

However McKercher (1993) observes that the viability of coastal sustainable tourism conception will depend on how well management objectives are defined and implemented for each specific coastal region. He further notes that these objectives must clearly select culturally/socially and ecologically areas and also high risk regions. Proper tourism activities must be selected for each particular are in accordance to the degree of sensitivity and the risk involved. More so education programs need to be established informing tourists of these management goals and objectives.

Community-based tourism management

Community-based tourism management
In particular cases the local community has been involved in promoting sustainable tourism practice through getting involved in the management of the tourist locations. This kind of tourism is founded on the basis that the individuals living besides a resource have the best interest of this resource and thus are best suitable for protecting the resource. This implies that tourism activities as well as businesses are formulated and managed by the community members and definitely with their approval and also support. (Brohman, 1996)

Sustainable tourism normally entails the preservation of resources which are capitalized on for tourism objectives, for example coral reefs and pure forests. Local community manage the tourist businesses and become accountable for promotion of the preservation messages to conserve their local environment. (Brohman, 1996)

The Community based sustainable tourism, links the success of sustainability of ecotourism site to management performances of the local communities which are indirectly or directly dependent upon the site for their livings.

An outstanding attribute of Community based sustainable tourism is that, local know-how is usually utilised along with broad general structures of the ecotourism business concepts. This permits participation of the local community at the managerial level and normally permits a much more close perceptive of the local environment. Using the local know-how also implies a simpler admission level into the industry for the locals whose livelihoods or jobs are affected through the using their surroundings as tourism sites. The participation of local community bring back the possession of their environment back to local community and permits an different sustainable type of growth for the communities as well as their environments which are usually not capable of supporting other types of growth and development. (Brohman, 1996)

Analysis of community based tourism

Analysis of community based tourism
The notion of community based tourism development might be extremely romanticized taking in mind the basic inequalities which are found among societies. (Taylor 1995) As tourism grows in within a local area, the already diverse local community may find its structures developing in new manners, with different groups of the community showing varied responses against the tourism development in the location. The tourist destination area is therefore showing an “open-structure” of co-dependent, numerous stakeholders, whereby the acts of one stakeholder effects the rest players in the local community. In addition, no particular institute or person can apply exclusive management over the tourist destination’s growth and development course (Acott et al, 1998)

Instead of relying on disagreement to work within this different range of interests many analysts suggest that stakeholders take on a mutual approach (Acott et al, 1998). This compromise-based tourism activity planning leads to a shared planned vision and needs the community, the industry and the environmental interest groups to be aware of their own interdependence and also to appreciate each one’s perspectives.

A lot of community tourism literature has mainly ignored the level to which the community perceptions entwine with and how they can be passed on both public and private sectors. Community tourism needs to be focused on the inter-related character of the community, the business and also government in a community setting. In addition it is essential to develop suitable and innovative instruments to help in facilitation of communication of appropriate information in and among communities, as well as to the industry developers and planners who determines the course of sustainable tourism industry growth and development. (Shackley, 1998)

Conclusion

Conclusion
Tourism is currently recognized as a global industry which is highly growing at a high rate, and like any industry that grows rapidly, the activities of tourism can have a substantial impact on the local development processes. The local effects of the industry are varied and usually distinctive to the industry. Sustainable tourism endeavours to create a less impact on the natural environment as well as the local culture and social life, whilst supporting to create earnings and employment opportunities for local community and promoting the conservation of the ecosystems in the local area. There are three main models of sustainable tourism which are ecotourism, coastal tourism and community base tourism. The main aspect in all these models is to enhance sustainable tourism through giving priority to the local community environment, social life and cultural aspects. However, at times these objectives have not been able to be achieved.

The Importance Of Hotels And Accommodation In Promoting Tourism

The Importance Of Hotels And Accommodation In Promoting Tourism

In the modern times, the way people spend their vacations has undergone a great change. People like to spend good times with family and friend while at the same time exploring various tourist places across the globe. As a result the tourism industry across the globe has seen an unprecedented growth which in turn has also resulted in tremendous growth in the hotel and accommodation facilities.

Comfortable hotels and accommodation facilities play a very important role in popularizing any tourist destination. If a person, who is quite far away from home, gets to enjoy the same facilities and comforts as he enjoys at his home, then he is bound to become attached to the place. On the other hand if the tourist ends up at a place where the hotels and accommodation facilities are not satisfactory, it is quite likely that he might never return to that place.


Perhaps that is why, hotels and accommodation facilities being made available at different tourists spots, have shifted focus on providing maximum comfort to tourists at reasonable rates. It is also vital to provide comfortable accommodation to people from diverse economical backgrounds. While five star hotels can cater to the needs of affluent visitors, small and medium range hotels and lodging houses are available for use by a middle class traveler.

Blog reviews are also vital that information about all the hotels and accommodation facilities available in a particular tourism spot is available to people quite easily. For this there can be no better option than internet, as most tourist gain information about the hotels and accommodation facilities through this medium only. The other ways are by making booklets containing information about the hotels and accommodation facilities available at train and bus stations.


The information provided to the tourists should be detailed and correct. It should contain the information related to room rentals, types of rooms, catering services, check out times, pick and drop facilities etc. Additional information about the significant tourist spots in the area can also be provided both on the net as well as the booklets, to promote not only the hotel but the tourist spot as well.

Where is the best destination for business tourism in Australia?

Where is the best destination for business tourism in Australia?

What is business tourism? One definition might be: Travelling for the purpose of attending an activity or event associated with his/her business or activity.

Anyone fortunate enough to be staying in Sunshine Coast accommodation on their next business trip will soon discover that being able to start their day with a jog along the beach, or a hearty breakfast at one of many waterfront cafés, need not only be a dream.

In fact, you don't even have to wait until the next time you're due a vacation before enjoying sun, sea and long sandy beaches. Instead, why not indulge in a little luxury the next time you go away on business simply by staying in accommodation which is usually only available to holiday makers. After all, this is what's known as business tourism and Sunshine Coast accommodation offers a huge range of opportunities for business people on the move. A perfect holiday atmosphere blended together with the exceedingly high standards of both luxurious and affordable accommodation ensures you enjoy spacious comfort, security and the very best hospitality.


The majority of business travellers require certain facilities in order to conduct their business such as an internet connection, telephone, work desk, etc, all of which are available on the Sunshine Coast, to the benefit of business tourism. What's more, considering Sunshine Coast accommodation caters predominantly for holiday travellers, executives can rest assured they'll be able to end their day with a visit to the sauna, a soak in the Jacuzzi, or even a relaxing swim in the pool.

Whether you want to socialize or whether you want to relax, the Sunshine Coast in Queensland Australia offers plenty of both. With mile upon mile of warm golden sand, a shimmering ocean, lush forests and people who are notoriously warm hearted, it's hardly surprising business people soon become attached to the place. With a sub-tropical summer, pleasant winters and a stunningly beautiful autumn and spring season for people to enjoy all year round, the Sunshine Coast in Queensland remains the ultimate choice for business tourism.


They say that many deals are finalized on a golf course so business people will be glad to know that the area sports some world class championship courses. On the other hand, those who need to entertain guests are spoilt for choice as well. Maroochydore for example is host to a huge range of bars, cafes and other venues.

At the centre of the Sunshine Coast economy and situated just a short drive from the Sunshine Coast Airport, Maroochydore looks set to dominate the business tourism market in the area. In fact, its massive potential for growth is further emphasized by the presence of the Sunshine Coast's major bus interchange and the Sunshine Plaza shopping centre.

One quality for which Sunshine Coast accommodation can be proud of, is the exceedingly good food always laid on at business meetings. Practically all the award winning restaurants in the area afford one with spectacular sea, mountain or river views as you sample some of the mouth watering local specialties, such as Moreton Bay bugs or Mooloolaba prawns.

Combining luxurious comfort, food fit for a king, and hospitality which is unsurpassed, one can't help but ask the question, "What else could there be to set a trip to the Sunshine Coast apart from other destinations". Of course not all business people travel alone and providing circumstances permit, many are now opting to have their families accompany them. In this case, those you join you will have plenty to keep them occupied, whether they want to lay around and enjoy perfectly safe beaches, or whether they'd rather do something more active such as trekking through rain forests or going out Koala spotting. While diving enthusiasts will be thrilled with a dive to explore the sunken HMAS Brisbane, shopaholics can shop until they drop at Sunshine Plaza or the Eumundi markets.

Because so many artists and people involved with alternative medicine choose to live on the Sunshine Coast in search of a quiet peaceful life, it's gained a reputation for being Queensland's creative centre. Villages throughout the Sunshine Coast boast unique little shops which are no less than a treasure trove for those in search of souvenirs. On the other end of the scale, those executives suffering from fatigue after a hard day can recover at one of the many venues offering spa treatment or massage therapy.

Considering that the Sunshine Coast is essentially the only place where business and pleasure fuse together so seamlessly, rather than say it's business as usual, a better way to put it would be, "business unusual". After all, with such outrageous value for money, one could surely not ask for any more.