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Business tourism 101: All you need to know

What is business tourism.

• To participate in internal meetings at different office locations
• To meet business partners (clients or suppliers)
• To go to conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, and other local or international business events
• To take part in company retreats or incentive trips

Why is business tourism important?

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• Work together more efficiently
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• Achieve important breakthroughs and solve problems faster

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What are the different types of business tourism, traditional business traveling, incentive trips, conference and exhibitions, how has business tourism evolved over the years.

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What is business tourism and why is it so big?

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In 2017, the world travel and tourism industry contributed more than $10 trillion dollars to the global economy. Of this amount, business tourism contributed a significant proportion, with a total of $1.23 trillion dollars.

Modern society transportation and infrastructure systems continue to revolutionise and therefore business tourism has the means to provide greater economic power than it has previously.

In this post, I will focus on the growing tourism industry of ‘business tourism’. I will explain what business tourism is, why business tourism is part of the tourism industry and provide a few examples of where business tourism takes place.

What is business tourism?

Definitions of business tourism, why is business tourism important, international exhibitors, corporate hospitality events, conferences, leisure time activities, benefits of business tourism, top business tourism destinations, business tourism in hong kong, business tourism in london, business tourism in new york, business tourism in toronto, business tourism in san francisco, business tourism: a conclusion, further reading.

Business tourism, or business travel, is essentially a form of travel which involves undertaking business activities that are based away from home.

The  United Nations World Tourism Organization  (UNWTO) defines tourists as people ‘traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes’, thus making business an important and integral sector of the tourism economy.

Business tourism activities includes attending meetings, congresses, exhibitions, incentive travel and corporate hospitality.

Academically, there isn’t a huge amount of literature on the characterisation of ‘business tourism’ or ‘business travel’. However, to quote from Davidson (1994) ‘Business tourism is concerned with people travelling for purposes which are related to their work.’

Business tourism represents one of the oldest forms of tourism, man having travelled for the purpose of travel since very early times” (cited in Bathia, 2006, p.272). To elaborate, business tourism is a means of travel that takes place for the primarily importance of a work-related activity.

Often the term ‘business tourism’ is described as ‘business traveller/travellers’.

There is a strong and correlative relation amongst a country’s economy and business tourism.

Business travellers are less cost sensitive on their expenditure as they themselves generally devote only a fraction of the cost. Research has shown that business travellers spend up to four times more during their trip than any other types of tourists . In fact, early research by Davidson and Cope , discovered that the ratio of daily expenditure by business travellers to that of leisure is generally situated somewhat between 2:1 and 3:1.

Therefore, business tourism provides significant economic contributions to the local and global economy. Business tourism also promotes the development for advanced infrastructure and transportation systems which also benefits other forms of tourism as well as the local population .

Business tourism also supports the hospitality industry, i.e. hotel bookings and restaurant bookings. This form of tourism also supports leisure tourism as business travellers tend to combine both activities together. This is referred as ‘bleisure tourism’, the combination of ‘business’ and ‘leisure’.

Business tourism activities

There are many forms of business tourism activities. Here I have demonstrated four key examples.

Business travellers may travel for the purpose of attending an exhibition. Exhibitions offer opportunities for businesses to connect with the international industry community. The exhibition industry entices two groups of people: those with something to sell and those who attend with a view to making a purchase of getting information.

Exhibitions come in all shapes and sizes depending on a person’s area of interest or work. As I have an interest in tourism I have attended a number of relevant travel exhibitions in recent years including ITB in Berlin and The World Travel Market in the UK.

Throughout many business excursions, the business traveller will have some form of meeting to attend during the course of their trip. Meetings may be appointments with clients; a board meeting at the present company or interstate of international branches; or an orientation meeting with staff at a new branch. Meetings can take place face-to-face or electronically using means such as Skype or FaceTime.

Corporate hospitality is a form of business travel that takes place when a corporation invites their guests to attend an event or an organised activity at no extra charge.

Corporate hospitality is a valuable tool used by corporations to foster relations, both internal and external to the company or to brand in influential circles. The extent to which corporate hospitality can yield tangible and intangible benefits is covered really well in the bestselling business book from award-winning restauranteur Danny Meyer, of Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, and Shake Shack entitled Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business .

A conference is a formal meeting of people with a shared interest. Conferences may last a day or they may last several days.

Conferences are common across a number of industries. Having worked in academia for a number of years, I have attended and presented at many conferences such as the ICOT conference in Thailand in 2017 and the International Conference on Sustainable Tourism in Nepal in 2018. I even won the three minute thesis competition at a PhD conference that I attended at the University of Staffordshire!

There are also many conferences and get togethers for travel bloggers that I am interested, such as TBEX , Traverse and Travel Massive .

Often in the business tourism literature you will come across the term MICE. MICE is a reference for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events. The term MICE has been recognised as ‘The Meeting Industry’ according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation .

The MICE industry contributes significantly to the wider business tourism sector. It is becoming increasingly recognised as a prominent part of the industry and is beginning to receive growing attention amongst the academic community. You can read a detailed article about MICE tourism here.

Along with the examples demonstrated above, business travellers also participate in leisure activities outside of their business commitments. These activities could range from dining out, sightseeing and other recreational activities. When I attended a conference in Nepal in 2017, for example, I took my mother in law and daughter along for the conference gala dinner where we took part in traditional Nepalese evening celebrations!

There are many benefits of business tourism. Notably, it brings economic value to the wider tourism industry as well as the local economy, for example through hotel bookings or sales of business travel backpacks . What many people forget to mention, however, are the benefits that business tourism can also have for the tourist!

I have travelled many times for business, whether this as part of my former Cabin Crew career, for an academic conference or to undertake consultancy work. Travelling frequently for work can yield many benefits for the individual, such as;

• Collecting frequent flier miles and redeeming these for personal use
• Becoming a member of hotel loyalty programmes and receiving associated benefits during both work and personal trips
• Saving money on things such as food and drink when attending corporate hospitality events
• Enhanced networking opportunities that may otherwise be inaccessible
• Taking advantage of leisure opportunities that may be otherwise inaccessible
• Enjoying the use of facilities, such as gyms or swimming pools, that may not otherwise be available to you

Business tourism destinations

There are a variety of business tourism destinations all across the world. However, this type of tourism is predominantly situated in global north countries. This is mainly because global north countries are developed countries and have the means to provide well equipped resources and infrastructure to makes business tourism easily accessible and thus desirable choices among business travellers.

According to Egencia , the corporate travel group collected data from flight booking and reservations during the years 2014 and 2018. Their collection of data led them to discover the top 20 destinations for global business tourism.

Following the list above, I have listed a set of examples of business tourism that are listed within the top ten destinations for global business tourism/travel.

Hong Kong ranks 8 th in the world for global business tourism and has been deemed one of Asia’s top choice for business travel. According to CTM , Central and Tsim Sha Tsui are the most popular commercial areas for business travel, with several hotels and business headquarters.

Hong Kong is the perfect destination for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and events) and in 2014, this form of tourism accounted for 1.82 million visitors.

There are around 283 hotels in Hong Kong.

There are a variety of things to do in Hong Kong during a business trip of the traveller is wanting to blend business and leisure together. A list of things to do are:

• Victoria Peak
• Tian Tan Buddha
• Victoria Harbour The Peak Tram

London ranks 2 nd in the world for global business tourism. London is the financial capital of the world and with this status comes several high-profile companies and is thought to be one of the best places to network and seek new business opportunities. This is why so many business tourists visit London for conferences, meetings and exhibitions.

London has around 1500 hotels.

There are a variety of things to do in London during a business trip of the traveller is wanting to blend business and leisure together. A list of things to do are:

• Buckingham Palace
• Coco Cola London Eye
• The British Museum
• Palace of Westminster

In 2019, New York was named the world’s top destination for business tourism for the fourth consecutive year. At no surprise when business travel flight bookings increased by more than 120% between 2014 and 2018.

New York is also a popular destination for business tourism as it offers a great deal of leisure activities and promotes the idea of blending business with leisure travel.

There are a variety of things to do in New York during a business trip of the traveller is wanting to blend business and leisure together. A list of things to do are:

• Statue of Liberty National Monument
• Central Park
• Empire State Building
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Toronto has been ranked the 5 th destination for global business tourism, outranking major commercial centres in the U.S.

Toronto (pronounced as “Traw-no” by the locals), is the financial capital of Canada. And according to Business Events, Toronto is the top Canadian domestic travel destination and the most popular choice for U.S sponsored association meetings outside the U.S.

In Toronto there are over 170 hotels which collectively has around 36,000 hotel rooms.

There are a variety of things to do in Toronto during a business trip of the traveller is wanting to blend business and leisure together. A list of things to do are:

• Royal Ontario Museum Art Gallery of Ontario

San Francisco has been ranked 7 th in the world for global business tourism.  According to The San Francisco Travel Association , San Francisco welcomed 18.9 million leisure visitors and 5.8 million business travellers in 2015.

According to Joe D’Alessandro, president and CEO of San Francisco Travel, San Francisco is “experiencing sustained growth in all market segments – domestic, international, leisure and business – as a result of our highly professional and sophisticated community of hotels, restaurants, cultural organizations and SFO, one of the finest airports in the world.” 

There are a variety of things to do in San Francisco during a business trip of the traveller is wanting to blend business and leisure together. A list of things to do are:

• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Golden Gate Park

Where business exists, the demand for business travel follows. Business tourism is predominantly located where good transportation systems are allocated, i.e. airports, taxis, railways. The choices of hotels and restaurants also attracts business travel.

Do you travel for business? What things do you look out for on your business trip? Are you a lover of combining business and leisure activities? Leave a comment below.

Like this post? For more on different types of tourism, I’d suggest reading my tourism glossary !

• Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business – The bestselling business book from award-winning restauranteur Danny Meyer, of Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, and Shake Shack
• Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide To Successful Meetings, Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conferences, Conventions, Incentives and Other Special Events – An academic text focussing on MICE in the events industry
• The Business of Tourism – A introductory text to the tourism industry

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Travel and Tourism: What Businesses Need to Know Now

The pandemic has had a significant impact on both business travel and leisure travel. Here’s what businesses need to know about travel beyond COVID-19.

September 13, 2021

Key Takeaways

• Business and leisure travelers are indicating a willingness to begin traveling again.
• The delta variant has slowed growth and created uncertainty around when travel and tourism will return to pre-pandemic levels.
• Businesses must adjust to the 'new normal' of travel to stay competitive and better serve their employees and customers.

COVID-19 hit the travel industry hard. Business travel, one of the industry’s primary sources of revenue, came to an abrupt halt. On the leisure travel side, vacations and special events were put on hold, damaging the tourism sector as well.

While the travel and tourism industries are slowly starting to recover, the emergence of the Delta variant has slowed growth and created uncertainty around when business and leisure travel will return to pre-pandemic levels. Here’s what businesses need to know to make informed decisions about traveling for their employees and customers amid this changing landscape.

Business travel during COVID-19

After a challenging year and a half, there is cause for optimism in the business travel industry, with companies indicating a willingness to return their employees to the road—or air as the case may be. According to a recent report from The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), over half of travel buyers and procurement professionals reported that their company’s travel spending increased “somewhat” to “a lot.” Additionally, participants reported a slight increase from the previous month in restarting domestic and international travel for business.

Despite the relative safety of air travel, companies are still being cautious. The survey found that only 40% of companies planned to restart domestic trips within the next one to three months, while a mere 18% of companies planned to restart international trips. Their caution is owed to concerns over the presence of COVID-19 variants. Among survey participants, 78% were “concerned” or “very concerned” about the effects of the delta variant, as well as the possibility of further variants, on the safety of business travel.

The economic impact of pandemic travel restrictions

Amid the pandemic, both domestic and international destinations have placed varying restrictions on travel. In addition to public health concerns, logistical factors like required COVID-19 testing and quarantine periods have significantly reduced where and how often people are traveling. Moreover, many airports and other transportation hubs have been operating with fewer staff, limiting both the efficiency of traveling and options for doing so. The reduction in both business travel and leisure travel cost the airline industry more than $100 billion in lost revenue in 2020, and estimates project a further loss of nearly $50 billion this year.

The loss in air travel has also negatively impacted the tourism sector. Reduced demand for travel has similarly reduced demand for hotels, restaurants and food service, local retail, entertainment, and events. In 2020, international tourism and its related sectors saw a loss of $2.4 trillion due to the effects of the pandemic.

Recovery in travel and tourism will largely depend on global vaccine distribution and the suppression of COVID-19 variants. According to the GBTA survey, approximately 1 in 5 participants reported their company required employees to be vaccinated before traveling domestically. With different countries and even states having their own set of restrictions and vaccination status guidelines, organizations may hold off on business travel until these requirements can be streamlined or more easily understood.

The impact of vaccine inequity on the tourism sector

While most developed countries have seen a successful vaccine rollout, many developing nations are still struggling with limited vaccine access and administration. Depending on the country, vaccination rates range from less than 1% to more than 60%.

As developing countries work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 without the support of widespread vaccines, they continue to experience greater losses in the tourism sector. This is especially critical, as many less-developed countries are heavily reliant on tourism for jobs and economic growth.

Countries with higher vaccination rates, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, have experienced less severe losses in tourism and are likely to have a more swift recovery. Still, the U.S. tourism industry has taken a hit, with many businesses struggling to find enough workers to keep them open during seasonal tourist peaks.

The long-term outlook for travel and tourism

The “new normal” of a post-pandemic world is expected to have long-term impacts on the travel and tourism industries.

With respect to corporate travel, many businesses have capitalized on new technologies to conduct remote meetings and large-scale conferences. With this, the frequency of business travel is likely to decrease, though it is unlikely to be replaced by virtual meetings altogether.

On the leisure travel side, people will likely continue to explore their own backyards more frequently than pre-pandemic. The summer of 2020 saw an uptick in road trips across America, with people choosing destinations within driving distance and further away from crowded metropolitan cities.

Travelers will continue to use touch-free technology

Contactless technology has seen a rise in recent years, but it has become more widespread than ever amid the pandemic. According to a survey by the U.S. Travel Association , 41% of global transactions are currently carried out through contact-free means, and 74% of Americans plan to continue using touch-free tech even post-pandemic. Apps that allow for contactless check-ins, direct payments, and even mobile hotel keys are expected to increase in popularity over the next several years.

As countries look toward fiscal and public health recovery, business travel and leisure travel are also beginning to recover. However, it is unlikely that things will return to the way they were before COVID-19. Rather, businesses must adjust to the “new normal” of travel to stay competitive and best support their employees and customers.

Traveling during COVID-19? Review the latest CDC guidance for domestic travel and international travel .

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Understanding the Travel and Tourism Sector: A Business Perspective

The world of business is inextricably linked with the realm of travel and tourism. From corporate travel arrangements to the operation of hospitality giants, this sector plays a pivotal role in the global economy.

The travel and tourism industry is not merely about vacations and leisure; it encompasses a diverse array of activities, services, and businesses that fuel economies, create jobs, and shape the way we explore the world.

In this article, we will embark on a journey to understand the intricacies of the travel and tourism sector from a business standpoint. We will explore its significance in the global economy, delve into the core components of the industry, examine the economic impact, and discuss emerging trends and challenges.

Moreover, we will shed light on the business aspects of travel, highlighting the key players, revenue streams, and marketing strategies that drive success.

But why should business professionals, beyond those directly involved in tourism, care about this sector? The answer lies in the fact that travel and tourism intersect with nearly every industry. Whether you're in finance, technology, healthcare, or any other field, understanding how this sector operates can unlock opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation.

So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a journey through the multifaceted world of travel and tourism, where business meets exploration and economic growth meets wanderlust.

Travel and Tourism

Travel and tourism refer to the activities, services, and industries associated with people traveling to and staying in places outside their usual place of residence for leisure, business, or other purposes.

The Core Components of Travel and Tourism

At its heart, the travel and tourism sector comprises several key components, each playing a unique role in the industry's ecosystem. Understanding these components is crucial for any business professional aiming to navigate this dynamic sector effectively.

Here are the primary elements:

1. Accommodation: Accommodation providers are the backbone of the tourism industry. They include hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and even unconventional options like Airbnb. These establishments cater to travelers by offering a place to stay, ranging from budget to luxury.

2. Transportation: Travel relies heavily on transportation. This segment encompasses airlines, cruise lines, railways, car rental services, and public transportation systems. Efficient transportation networks are vital for connecting travelers to their destinations.

3. Food and Beverage: Dining experiences are an integral part of any trip. This category includes restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and bars. Culinary tourism, where travelers explore local cuisine, has become a significant trend within this segment.

4. Travel Agencies: Travel agencies and tour operators serve as intermediaries between travelers and service providers. They help plan itineraries, book accommodations, and arrange transportation, making the travel process more convenient.

5. Attractions and Entertainment: Tourist destinations offer various attractions, from historical sites and museums to theme parks and natural wonders. Entertainment options such as theaters and music venues also contribute to the overall travel experience.

6. Travel Technology: In the digital age, technology has transformed the way people plan and experience travel. Online booking platforms, travel apps, and services like TripAdvisor have reshaped the industry's landscape.

7. Tourism Services: This category includes a range of services such as travel insurance, currency exchange, and visa assistance. These services ensure that travelers are prepared for their journeys and can navigate any unforeseen challenges.

8. Destination Management: Local governments and organizations play a pivotal role in managing and promoting tourist destinations. They invest in infrastructure, marketing, and sustainability efforts to attract visitors.

The Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism

From a business perspective, it's essential to grasp the significant economic impact of the travel and tourism sector. This industry is a global economic powerhouse that generates jobs, fosters investment and drives economic growth.

Here are some key statistics to illustrate the significance of travel and tourism :

• Job Creation: Travel and tourism directly support over 330 million jobs worldwide, accounting for 1 in 10 jobs globally.
• Contribution to GDP: In 2022, the travel and tourism sector contributed 7.6% to global GDP, highlighting its substantial economic footprint.
• Investment Magnet: This sector attracts investments in infrastructure, hotels, transportation, and more, further stimulating economic activity.
• Foreign Exchange Earnings: Tourism often serves as a vital source of foreign exchange earnings for many countries, boosting their balance of payments.
• SME Growth: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a significant role in the sector, benefiting from the opportunities created by tourism-related businesses.

The economic interplay between tourism and other industries is intricate.

For instance, the hospitality sector relies on agriculture for food supplies, airlines depend on the aerospace industry for aircraft and tourist destinations often collaborate with local artisans and businesses to promote cultural experiences.

In the business world, recognizing the economic clout of travel and tourism can open doors for collaboration, investment, and innovation. Many companies, even those seemingly unrelated to tourism, can find ways to tap into this lucrative market.

Emerging Trends and Challenges

The travel and tourism sector is continuously evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global events. Business professionals must stay attuned to these trends and challenges to adapt and thrive in this dynamic industry.

Here are some notable developments:

1. Sustainable Tourism: Travelers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Businesses that adopt green initiatives not only reduce their environmental footprint but also attract environmentally conscious travelers.

2. Digital Transformation: The digitalization of travel services has reshaped how consumers plan and book trips. Online platforms, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are instrumental in personalizing travel experiences.

3. Health and Safety: Recent global health crises have heightened travelers' concerns about safety and hygiene. Businesses must implement robust health and safety measures to regain consumer trust.

4. Shifts in Travel Behavior: The pandemic has brought about changes in travel behavior, with a focus on remote and nature-based destinations. Companies need to adapt their offerings to cater to these evolving preferences.

5. Regulatory Challenges: Navigating complex regulations, including visa requirements and health protocols, can be a challenge for travel businesses. Staying informed and compliant is crucial.

6. Geopolitical Factors: Political instability and international relations can significantly impact the tourism industry. Businesses must be prepared to adapt to changing geopolitical landscapes.

The Business of Travel and Tourism

Understanding how businesses operate within this sector is essential for both industry insiders and entrepreneurs looking to tap into this thriving market.

Role of Businesses in the Travel Sector

Businesses play a pivotal role in shaping the travel and tourism landscape. Whether you're a hotel chain, an airline, a tour operator, or a travel agency, your role is multifaceted, encompassing everything from customer service to marketing and sustainability initiatives.

• Customer-Centric Approach : At the heart of every successful travel and tourism business is a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. Travelers today expect exceptional service and unique experiences. From the moment a traveler starts planning their trip to the time they return home, businesses must focus on providing top-notch services, personalized recommendations, and seamless experiences.
• Innovation and Adaptation : The travel industry is highly competitive and constantly evolving. Successful businesses in this sector are those that innovate and adapt to changing trends. This could mean embracing digital technology, offering eco-friendly options, or creating new and exciting travel packages.

Business Models and Revenue Streams

To thrive in the travel and tourism sector, businesses employ various revenue models tailored to their specific niches. Here are a few common business models:

• Hospitality and Accommodation : Hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals rely on room bookings and additional services such as dining, spa treatments, and event hosting to generate revenue.
• Airlines and Transportation : Airlines make money through ticket sales, baggage fees, in-flight services, and partnerships with other travel-related businesses. Transportation services like taxis, trains, and cruise lines have similar revenue structures.
• Tour Operators and Travel Agencies : These businesses profit from organizing and selling travel packages, tours, and experiences. Commissions, booking fees, and tour sales are primary income sources.
• Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) : OTAs like Expedia and Booking.com aggregate information from various travel service providers and earn commissions on bookings made through their platforms.

Customer Experience and Service Excellence

In the digital age, the travel and tourism sector is driven by customer reviews and recommendations. Travelers share their experiences online, influencing the choices of others. Therefore, providing exceptional customer service is paramount. Here are some strategies to achieve service excellence:

• Personalization : Tailor recommendations and services to individual preferences.
• Seamless Booking and Travel : Make the booking process simple and provide support throughout the journey.
• Feedback and Improvement : Collect customer feedback and use it to enhance services continually.
• Crisis Management : Be prepared to handle unexpected situations, such as flight cancellations or health emergencies, with professionalism and empathy.

Marketing and Promotion Strategies

Effective marketing is essential for attracting travelers to your business. Here are some strategies commonly used in the travel and tourism industry:

• Digital Marketing : Utilize online channels such as social media, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and paid advertising to reach a global audience.
• Content Marketing : Create engaging content, including blog posts, videos, and travel guides, to inspire and inform potential travelers.
• Partnerships : Collaborate with influencers, other businesses, and tourism boards to expand your reach and access new markets.
• Sustainability Promotion : Highlight your commitment to sustainable and responsible travel practices, as eco-conscious travelers seek eco-friendly options.

The business of travel and tourism is a multifaceted realm that demands a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, innovation, and responsible practices.

Success in this sector requires a deep understanding of your niche, a commitment to service excellence, and strategic marketing efforts. As the travel industry continues to evolve, businesses that can adapt and offer unique, memorable experiences will undoubtedly thrive in this exciting and ever-changing market.

Key Players in the Travel and Tourism Industry

As we dive deeper into the business of travel and tourism, it's crucial to recognize the key players that shape this industry. These players, ranging from airlines to accommodation providers and travel agencies, contribute to the diverse ecosystem of travel and tourism.

Understanding their roles and significance is essential for anyone interested in this dynamic sector.

Airlines and Aviation

Airlines are the lifelines of global travel. They provide the means for travelers to reach their destinations quickly and efficiently. Here's an overview of their role in the industry:

• Passenger Transportation : Airlines transport millions of passengers daily, connecting cities and countries across the globe. They generate revenue through ticket sales, baggage fees, and in-flight services.
• Cargo Services : Airlines also play a pivotal role in transporting goods and cargo, contributing significantly to international trade and logistics.
• Global Networks : Major airlines operate extensive global networks, allowing travelers to reach virtually any corner of the world.

Hotel Chains and Accommodation Providers

The hospitality sector, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, is another cornerstone of the travel and tourism industry. Here's how they contribute:

• Lodging : These businesses offer lodging options, from budget-friendly to luxury, catering to diverse traveler preferences.
• Dining and Services : Many hotels provide dining options, spa services, event hosting, and recreational facilities, enhancing the guest experience and generating additional revenue.
• Destination Attraction : Iconic hotels and resorts often become attractions in themselves, drawing travelers to specific destinations.

Tour Operators and Travel Agencies

Tour operators and travel agencies specialize in creating and selling travel packages and experiences. Their roles include:

• Curating Experiences : They design itineraries and packages that offer unique and immersive travel experiences, from adventure tours to cultural excursions.
• Booking and Logistics : These businesses handle the logistics of travel, including accommodations, transportation, and activities, streamlining the process for travelers.
• Expertise : Tour operators and travel agencies provide expert guidance, helping travelers navigate complex travel decisions.

Destination Management Companies

Destination management companies (DMCs) focus on specific regions or destinations. Their roles encompass:

• Local Expertise : DMCs have in-depth knowledge of their respective destinations, enabling them to offer specialized services and experiences.
• Customized Services : They work closely with travel planners and agencies to tailor experiences for groups and individuals.
• Sustainability : DMCs often play a vital role in promoting responsible tourism practices within their destinations.

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Online travel agencies have become a dominant force in the industry, leveraging digital platforms to connect travelers with various travel services. Here's what they do:

• Aggregation : OTAs aggregate information from airlines, hotels, and other travel service providers, offering a wide array of choices to travelers.
• Booking Platforms : They provide convenient booking platforms, allowing travelers to book flights, accommodations, and more in one place.
• Reviews and Recommendations : OTAs often feature user reviews and recommendations, influencing traveler decisions.

Understanding the roles of these key players in the travel and tourism industry is essential for anyone considering entering this sector.

Each player contributes uniquely to the travel experience, from transportation to accommodation and beyond. Successful businesses often collaborate with multiple stakeholders to offer comprehensive and memorable travel experiences to their customers.

Travel and Tourism Post-COVID-19

The travel and tourism industry, like many others, faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and health concerns brought international travel to a standstill. However, the industry has displayed remarkable resilience and adaptability.

Let's explore how the sector is recovering and adapting in a post-pandemic world.

Impact of the Pandemic on the Industry

• Travel Restrictions : Stringent travel restrictions, including border closures and quarantine requirements, severely impacted international travel. Airlines faced a sharp decline in passenger numbers.
• Hospitality Struggles : Hotels and accommodation providers experienced a dramatic drop in occupancy rates. Many temporarily closed or adapted to offer quarantine and isolation services.
• Cruise Industry Challenges : Cruise lines faced significant setbacks due to onboard outbreaks. The industry had to reimagine health and safety protocols.
• Shift to Domestic Travel : With international travel restrictions, many travelers turned to domestic and regional destinations, boosting local tourism.
• Digital Transformation : The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies for contactless bookings, health monitoring, and communication.

Recovery and Adaptation Strategies

The travel and tourism industry is rebounding, thanks to a combination of factors:

• Vaccination Campaigns : Widespread vaccination campaigns have increased traveler confidence, making international travel safer.
• Health and Safety Protocols : Airlines, hotels, and other businesses have implemented robust health and safety measures to reassure travelers.
• Flexible Booking Policies : Many travel companies introduced flexible booking and cancellation policies to accommodate changing travel plans.
• Sustainability Focus : There's a growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism, with businesses integrating eco-friendly practices.
• Digitalization : The industry continues to embrace digital technologies, offering contactless experiences and personalized services.
• Collaboration : Stakeholders across the industry are collaborating to rebuild and promote destinations.

Future Outlook and Resilience

The travel and tourism industry is poised for recovery and growth in the coming years. Here's what the future may hold:

• Pent-Up Demand : Many travelers postponed their plans during the pandemic, leading to pent-up demand for leisure and business travel.
• Sustainable Travel : Sustainable and eco-conscious travel is gaining momentum. Travelers are increasingly choosing destinations and businesses committed to environmental responsibility.
• Tech Integration : Technology will continue to play a significant role, with advancements in AI, mobile apps, and data analytics enhancing the travel experience.
• Health and Safety : Health and safety measures will remain a priority, with businesses maintaining rigorous protocols.
• Remote Work and Travel : Remote work trends may encourage a blend of work and leisure travel, with more extended stays in diverse locations.
• Resilience Planning : The industry is developing resilience plans to better handle future crises and disruptions.

The travel and tourism industry's ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity demonstrates its resilience. As it recovers and evolves, it offers promising opportunities for businesses and travelers alike.

The key to success lies in embracing change, prioritizing safety, and delivering exceptional experiences that meet the evolving needs of travelers in a changing world.

Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Business Practices

In a world increasingly concerned about the environment and social responsibility, the travel and tourism industry is under scrutiny to adopt more sustainable and responsible practices.

Let's delve into the importance of sustainable tourism and how businesses can contribute to a greener and more ethical travel sector.

Environmental and Social Responsibility

• Reducing Carbon Footprint : The travel industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Airlines, for example, are exploring biofuels and more fuel-efficient aircraft to reduce their carbon footprint.
• Preserving Natural Resources : Eco-conscious travelers seek destinations that protect and preserve natural resources. Businesses can contribute by implementing eco-friendly initiatives like energy-efficient facilities and waste reduction programs.
• Conservation Efforts : Supporting local conservation projects and wildlife protection initiatives can be a part of responsible tourism. This can involve financial contributions or active participation.
• Respecting Local Cultures : Responsible tourism respects and celebrates local cultures and traditions. It involves engaging with local communities in a respectful and sustainable manner.
• Community Involvement : Businesses can support the communities they operate in through job creation, fair wages, and community development projects.

Sustainable Tourism Certifications and Initiatives

• Eco-Certifications : Numerous certifications, such as EarthCheck and Green Key , help businesses showcase their commitment to sustainability. These certifications often involve rigorous audits of a company's environmental practices.
• Zero-Waste Initiatives : Some hotels and resorts aim to become zero-waste establishments, recycling and repurposing nearly all their waste.
• Wildlife Conservation : Tour operators and businesses can partner with wildlife conservation organizations to promote ethical wildlife experiences.
• Local Sourcing : Restaurants and hotels can prioritize local sourcing of food and materials, reducing transportation-related carbon emissions.
• Plastic Reduction : Many businesses are eliminating single-use plastics and opting for sustainable alternatives.

Benefits of Responsible Tourism for Businesses

• Competitive Advantage : Travelers increasingly seek sustainable and responsible options. Businesses that embrace these practices gain a competitive edge.
• Cost Savings : Sustainable practices often lead to cost savings through reduced energy and resource consumption.
• Enhanced Reputation : Businesses committed to responsible tourism build a positive reputation and attract like-minded customers.
• Legal Compliance : Adhering to eco-friendly and ethical standards ensures compliance with evolving environmental and social regulations.
• Long-Term Viability : By protecting the environment and supporting local communities, businesses contribute to the long-term viability of their destinations.
• Guest Satisfaction : Eco-conscious travelers appreciate businesses that share their values, leading to higher guest satisfaction and loyalty.

The travel and tourism sector's future hinges on sustainable and responsible practices. Businesses that prioritize environmental and social responsibility not only contribute to a healthier planet but also position themselves for long-term success in an industry undergoing profound changes.

As a business professional, understanding and adopting these practices can be a strategic advantage in a world where ethical considerations increasingly influence consumer choices.

Hostile Takeovers

In a hostile takeover, the acquiring company pursues the target company despite the target's resistance. Hostile takeovers often involve aggressive tactics, such as tender offers directly to shareholders or attempts to replace the target's board of directors.

Case Studies: Successful Businesses in Travel and Tourism

To gain deeper insights into the strategies and approaches that have propelled certain businesses to success in the travel and tourism sector, let's examine a few notable case studies.

These examples showcase how innovation, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach can make a significant impact in this dynamic industry.

Airbnb: Revolutionizing Accommodation

Airbnb, founded in 2008, has transformed the hospitality sector. This online marketplace connects travelers with unique accommodations offered by hosts worldwide. What sets Airbnb apart?

Key Success Factors:

• Platform Model : Airbnb operates as a platform, allowing hosts to list their properties and travelers to book them. This asset-light model means Airbnb doesn't own properties, reducing capital requirements.
• User Reviews : User-generated reviews and ratings build trust among users. Travelers can make informed choices based on the experiences of previous guests.
• Personalization : Airbnb's recommendation engine suggests accommodations based on user preferences, enhancing the customer experience.
• Diverse Offerings : From treehouses to castles, Airbnb offers a wide range of unique accommodations, appealing to travelers seeking authentic experiences.
• Host Community : Airbnb invests in building a strong host community, providing support and resources to hosts.

Cross-Border Mergers and Acquisitions: Global Expansion

Cross-border M&A transactions involve companies from different countries coming together. These deals offer opportunities for global expansion but also present unique challenges.

Booking.com: Data-Driven Booking

Booking.com, founded in 1996, is a global online travel agency. It leverages technology and data to simplify travel booking.

• Vast Inventory : Booking.com offers a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels to vacation rentals. This extensive inventory caters to diverse traveler preferences.
• User Experience : The platform's user-friendly interface and transparent booking process contribute to its popularity.
• Data Analytics : Booking.com uses data analytics to understand traveler behavior, enabling personalized recommendations and pricing strategies.
• Global Reach : With a presence in over 220 countries and territories, Booking.com serves a global audience.
• Instant Confirmation : Providing real-time booking confirmation enhances the customer experience.

Delta Air Lines: Customer-Centric Air Travel

Delta Air Lines, a major U.S. carrier founded in 1924, is known for its customer-centric approach.

• Reliability : Delta prioritizes operational reliability, minimizing flight cancellations and delays.
• Fleet Upgrades : Investing in a modern and efficient fleet enhances the passenger experience and reduces operating costs.
• Customer Service : Delta emphasizes excellent customer service, and its efforts are reflected in high customer satisfaction ratings.
• Global Alliances : Participation in global airline alliances expands route networks and offers travelers more choices.
• Innovation : Delta embraces innovation, introducing features like biometric boarding and in-flight entertainment options.

These case studies highlight the diverse strategies and approaches that have driven success in the travel and tourism sector. From disruptive online marketplaces to data-driven booking platforms and customer-centric airlines, businesses that prioritize innovation, customer experience, and adaptability are well-positioned for growth.

By studying these examples, business professionals can gain valuable insights into the industry's evolving landscape and identify opportunities to innovate and excel in their own travel and tourism endeavors.

Lessons Learned from Industry Leaders

The travel and tourism sector offers a treasure trove of lessons for business professionals across various industries. Let's distill some key takeaways from the successes and innovations of industry leaders:

1. Customer-Centricity Is Paramount

Whether you're running an airline, hotel, or travel agency, prioritizing the customer experience is non-negotiable. Happy and satisfied customers become loyal patrons and brand advocates. Invest in personalized services, efficient booking processes, and responsive customer support.

2. Embrace Technology and Data

Technology is a game-changer in the travel industry. From data analytics that inform pricing strategies to mobile apps that enhance on-the-go experiences, leveraging technology can set your business apart. Be open to adopting new tools and systems that improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

3. Diversity and Choice Matter

Offering a diverse range of products or services can attract a broader audience. In the travel sector, this means providing various accommodation types, transportation options, and tour packages. Embrace diversity to meet the unique preferences of your customers.

4. Transparency Builds Trust

Transparency in pricing, policies, and terms and conditions builds trust with customers. Hidden fees and ambiguous policies can lead to dissatisfaction. Clear communication and honesty go a long way in establishing credibility.

5. Sustainability Is the Future

Sustainability and responsible tourism are becoming central to the industry's ethos. Travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact. Consider eco-friendly practices and promote responsible tourism. It's not only good for the planet but also a selling point for your business.

6. Innovate or Stagnate

Innovation is the lifeblood of the travel and tourism sector. Whether it's introducing new services, improving efficiency, or enhancing the customer journey, staying ahead requires a commitment to innovation. Monitor industry trends and be open to creative solutions.

7. Globalization Expands Reach

Participating in global networks and alliances can expand your business's reach. Collaborate with international partners to offer customers a wider range of options. Globalization also provides resilience in the face of economic fluctuations.

8. Resilience Is Crucial

The industry has weathered numerous storms, from economic crises to health emergencies. Building resilience into your business plans, such as having contingency measures for crises, is essential. Flexibility and adaptability are key.

9. Community and Culture Matter

Embrace the culture and communities where your business operates. Engage with local communities, respect their traditions, and contribute positively. This fosters goodwill and can lead to meaningful partnerships.

10. Continuous Learning Is a Competitive Advantage

The travel and tourism sector is ever-evolving. Continuous learning and staying informed about industry trends and regulations are essential. Attend conferences, workshops, and industry events to network and gain insights.

Incorporating these lessons into your business strategy can set you on a path to success in the dynamic and rewarding world of travel and tourism. By combining innovation, customer focus, and a commitment to sustainability, you can thrive in an industry that promises new horizons and unforgettable experiences for travelers worldwide.

The travel and tourism sector represents a dynamic and resilient industry with a significant impact on the global economy. As a business professional, understanding the nuances and opportunities within this sector is paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we've explored the multifaceted world of travel and tourism, delving into its significance, components, trends, and challenges.

We've seen how the industry intersects with business, offering a wide array of opportunities for entrepreneurs and established enterprises alike. Whether you're considering venturing into travel-related ventures or seeking to enhance an existing business through tourism, the sector holds immense potential.

Key takeaways from this exploration include:

• The Economic Powerhouse : Travel and tourism contribute significantly to GDP, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings in many countries. This sector's resilience is evident through its ability to rebound from crises.
• Diverse Components : The industry encompasses hospitality, transportation, attractions, travel services, and more, creating a rich tapestry of business opportunities.
• Trends and Challenges : Emerging trends like sustainable tourism and digital transformation offer avenues for innovation. Yet, challenges such as health concerns and environmental responsibility must be addressed.
• The Business of Tourism : Customer-centricity, technology adoption, transparency, and sustainability are vital principles for success in this sector.
• Key Players : Airlines, hotel chains, tour operators, and online travel agencies are among the key players shaping the industry's landscape.
• Post-COVID-19 Era : The pandemic prompted significant shifts in travel behavior. Recovery strategies and adaptability are critical for businesses in the post-COVID-19 world.
• Sustainable Tourism : Responsible practices not only benefit the environment but also appeal to conscious travelers and can drive business success.
• Lessons from Industry Leaders : Customer-centricity, innovation, transparency, and resilience are valuable takeaways from successful travel and tourism businesses.

As the world evolves, so do the travel and tourism opportunities. By staying informed, embracing innovation, and aligning with sustainability, you can position your business for success in an industry that promises both profitability and the chance to create unforgettable experiences for travelers around the globe.

Now, armed with insights from this guide, you're better equipped to navigate the exciting and ever-changing world of travel and tourism, contributing to its growth and shaping its future. Bon voyage!

• United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). (2022). Tourism Highlights 2022 Edition. Link
• World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). (2022). Economic Impact Reports. Link
• International Air Transport Association (IATA). (2022). IATA Economics. Link
• Deloitte. (2022). Travel, Hospitality, and Leisure Reports. Link
• Statista. (2022). Statistics and Market Data on Travel and Tourism. Link
• McKinsey & Company. (2022). Travel, Logistics & Transport Infrastructure. Link
• Booking.com. (2023). Link
• TripAdvisor. (2023). GreenLeaders. Link
• The New York Times. (2023). Travel and Tourism. Link
• National Geographic. (2023). Sustainable Travel. Link
• The World Bank. (2023). Tourism. Link
• World Tourism Organization (2022). Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. Link

Tumisang Bogwasi

2X Award-Winning Entrepreneur | Empowering Brands to Generate Leads, Grow Revenue with Business Strategy and Digital Marketing | Founder, CEO of Fine Group

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27 Business Travel Tips to Streamline Your Journey

Business travel is essential for many companies. In a survey by Deloitte , 53% of US companies said they expect their travel spend to exceed three-quarters of 2019 levels by the end of 2023, and these numbers are only getting better. 71% of US companies expect a full recovery in travel spend by the end of 2024.

In another study by Morgan Stanley Research , corporate travel budgets showed dramatic improvement, with 2023 budgets reaching 98% of 2019 levels, on average.

Need some business travel tips to help you navigate corporate travel? You’re in the right place!

27 Best Business Travel Tips

Whether you’re new to business travel or it’s been a while since you’ve traveled for work, you’re likely asking yourself, “What are the most important things to consider when planning a business trip?”

When traveling for business, you’ll need to consider things like the weather at your destination, accommodations, how to save money during your trip, how you can balance your daily work with your travel schedule, and so much more.

We’ve put together 27 tips for business travelers to help you on your journey, including some tips specific to international travel.

Whether you have a corporate travel management team to help streamline the process and venue sourcing on your behalf or you’re working alone on your travel plans, these business travel tips are for you!

1. Know Your Corporate Travel Policies

Every company has its policies, and you should know yours. This can include daily expense limits, means of travel allowed, expected etiquette and dress code, and more.

2. Familiarize Yourself with Your Destination

Whether you’re traveling domestically or abroad, you’ll want to know what to expect when you get there. Research things like expected weather, public transportation cost and availability, bliesure opportunities, and most importantly, cultural differences and customs.

3. Plan Your Essential Itinerary First

To avoid overbooking yourself, plan out your itinerary with essential meetings and activities first, then add in opportunities for fun activities and sightseeing. Everyone wants to enjoy their work trips, but if you plan too much for yourself, your work, sleep, and health can all suffer.

4. Budget for Unexpected Delays

When booking flights, rental cars, and appointments, make sure you budget for delays. If you plan a meeting too close to your arrival time and your flight is delayed, your entire schedule could be affected.

5. Explore Travel Membership Programs

Want a bit more bang for your buck? Find out whether your company already participates in airline rewards or hotel rewards programs. If not, sign up for them yourself! The more points you rack up, the more perks you get while traveling.

6. Choose Your Hotel Accommodations Wisely

When searching for hotel accommodations, you’re looking for more than the right price. In addition to pricing and member rewards, consider:

• Types of hotels
• Types of hotel rooms  
• Hotel room amenities
• Whether you’ll stay in a sustainable hotel
• Best hotel for business travelers
• Whether you can stay at an all-inclusive resort

7. Consider Travel at Your Destination

When you touch down, how will you be getting around? Rental car? Public transport? Rideshare apps? If you’re planning on a rental car, be sure you book early to lock in better prices and ensure there are cars available for your selected dates.

8. Ensure Your Travel Documents Are in Order

If you’re traveling domestically in the US, ensure you have an unexpired ID with you, including either a license or passport. For now, any state license will suffice, but by May 7, 2025, all domestic travelers will require a REAL ID to travel.

*Note: The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID was previously 2023, but that deadline has been pushed back. Still, if you need to renew your license any time soon, it’s a good idea to switch to a REAL ID so you’re prepared for the change.

9. Print Files in Advance

If you have presentation files, meeting files, or other documents you’ll need printed, don’t assume you’ll have access to a printer when you get to your destination – print it in advance.

10. Back Up Your Technology and Documents

Losing a phone, laptop, credit card, or ID can make things exceptionally difficult. Make photocopies of your IDs and bank cards, and back up your technology using the cloud or an external hard drive.

11. Charge Your Devices

An obvious yet forgettable one – make sure your tech is charged before your trip!

12. Download Useful Apps

Your phone can be your best friend when traveling. Before you leave, download your event app , local maps in case of poor service, translation apps, and travel apps like Uber and Lyft.

13. Pack Light – Don’t Check a Bag

For your own sake, only bring the essentials in your carry-on and personal item. Skip the extra pair of shoes (and the long checked baggage line), and consider what you really need for your trip.

Check out the packing list at the end of this post to help!

14. Check In at Home

If you’re not checking a bag, there’s no reason to wait in line at the airport to check in. You can do it all online, including choosing your seat and downloading a digital boarding pass to your phone.

15. Confirm Your Reservations

To ensure you’re all set for your trip and have no surprises waiting for you, confirm everything in advance. We’re talking flight status, transportation to the airport, hotel reservation, rental car, meetings, etc.

16. Pack with Airport Security in Mind

Travel safety and TSA are no joke. Even if you skip the check-in lines, security can take forever – especially if you’re unprepared. Here are a few airport security tips for business travelers:

• Budget about 45 minutes to get through security.
• Check the size of your liquids! Any liquids you pack in your carry-on or personal item must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit into one clear, quart-sized bag.
• Organize your bags so everything you need to remove for security is in the same place. Be sure you only have to open one bag and that you can easily remove what you need to and get it back in your bag once you’re through security.
• Read the signs! Depending on the airport and security line, you may not need to remove your shoes or anything from your bags. In others, you’ll need to remove everything – shoes, belts, tech, food, liquids, etc. Know what’s expected so you can move through the line quickly.

17. Follow Business Travel Etiquette

Beginning with your travel attire, you’ll want to be sure you’re following business travel etiquette. You reflect your company, so if you should be dressed up – especially if you’re flying business class – make sure you are, and follow all corporate travel policies.

18. Prioritize Expense Management

Whether you’re swiping your own credit card or a corporate card, make sure every expense is documented. Expense management is critical at every stage, from booking flights and rental cars to paying for meals during your stay.

Track your expenses and save all your receipts so you can account for all expenses and the reason for each purchase. Consider taking pictures of all receipts or uploading them to a third-party app so you don’t have to worry about losing them and missing out on being reimbursed.

19. Focus on Boosting Your Productivity

Maximizing productivity during travel should be a huge priority for corporate travelers. To boost your productivity, try these time management strategies for business trips:

• Use your hotel business center to improve focus.
• Book meetings in advance so you can plan your working time around them.
• Schedule breaks in your itinerary to avoid burnout.
• If you have time to work while traveling, do it – you never know when your on-site activities will get in the way of work.
• Stay connected with your team – the more you keep in touch, the more accountable you’ll be.
• Identify quiet areas on site where you can work during your downtime without having to return to your hotel or room.

20. Plan Networking Opportunities in Advance

Networking can take up a big chunk of time, whether it’s a networking meet and greet or a one-on-one meeting. Plan these networking opportunities in advance so they’re built into your schedule and you can plan around them.

21. Try Stress Reduction Techniques

Stress takes many forms, but especially for business travelers, there’s a lot to stress over. To make things easier on yourself, try these stress reduction techniques:

• Plan ahead – the more details you’ve planned in advance, the less you’ll have to worry about while you travel.
• Practice meditation and deep breathing to keep calm during stressful situations.
• Stay hydrated! Dehydration can lead to fatigue and stress – not to mention headaches and illness – so keep the water flowing.
• Stretch, exercise, and get your blood pumping. Exercise is a great stress reliever!
• Sleep, and take breaks. Your body and mind will thank you.

22. Leave Room for Swag!

If you’re attending an event where you can expect to pick up some swag, or you plan to do a little shopping in your downtime, make sure you have room in your luggage to take it all back with you!

Additional Tips for International Business Travel

Traveling to a foreign country? Here are a few tips specific to international business travel.

23. Research International Travel Requirements

When traveling abroad, make sure you know the requirements for entry and visiting. Research visas, laws and regulations, valid identification, and requirements for renting a vehicle (some countries require international driving permits ).

24. Learn Some Key Phrases

If you’re traveling to a country where English is not the primary language, make sure you have a few basic phrases down so you can make your way around.

• Hello / Goodbye
• Do you speak English?
• Please / Thank you
• Where is the bathroom / train station / airport?
• Where is “name of your venue?”
• Can I have the check, please?

25. Ensure You Have Phone and Internet Access

Need phone and internet access abroad? If this isn’t supplied by your company, you’ll need to research your own phone/internet plan to make sure you have service while traveling.

26. Study the Cultural Customs

Don’t be a fish out of water. Before you pack for your trip, research acceptable attire, cultural activities and events happening during your stay, customs to participate in, polite behaviors, greetings, hand gestures to avoid, and more.

27. Bring a Credit Card with No International Fees

Converting currency or withdrawing funds at the airport aren’t always the cheapest options. To avoid fees and the hassle of withdrawing cash (if you’re in an area where cash isn’t preferred), consider getting a credit card with no international transaction fees.

Essential Items to Pack for Business Travel

What are the essential items every business traveler should pack? That can depend on the nature of your business, where you’re headed, how long you’re staying, and many other factors.

That said, there are a few packing essentials for business trips that just about everyone needs when traveling for work. Here’s a general packing list to help you get started:

The real challenge of packing the right clothing for your business trip isn’t in choosing what you’ll wear – it’s in making sure you’re not under or overpacking. Here’s what you should consider when packing your business clothing:

• Pack items that are versatile: Bring clothing you can wear both during the day and in the evening for more formal dinners and events. That way, you’re only wearing one outfit per day.
• Bring more tops than bottoms: Pants and skirts can easily be worn more than once, but you’ll need a clean shirt or dress for every day of your trip. Try to mix and match multiple tops with one pair of bottoms to help save space in your suitcase.
• Be prepared to dress up: If there’s a fancy banquet or networking event on the agenda, make sure you have something dressier to wear for this event. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need an entirely different outfit – it could mean bringing jewelry or a dinner jacket to spiff up your daywear.
• Pack 1-2 pairs of shoes: Weather permitting, you only need one comfortable pair of dress shoes and one pair of casual shoes for your downtime. Of course, if you’re traveling somewhere with rain or snow, you’ll need weatherproof shoes. Perhaps those could double as your casual pair!
• Don’t forget the basics: Pack one pair of socks and underwear for each day of your trip, and don’t forget pajamas!
• Company clothing: If you have company swag or a uniform you’re meant to be showing off during your trip, make sure it’s in the bag!
• Specialty clothing items: Consider whether you’ll need workout clothing, swimwear, a special outfit for an event, etc. Check out your itinerary and see what kind of downtime you’ll have and whether any events or activities you’ll be attending require specific attire.

*Hot Packing Tip: If you haven’t heard, rolling your clothes is all the rage – and for good reason! Fold your clothes along the seams, then roll them. This will save you space in your suitcase and cut down on iron/steaming time once you get to your destination.

Business Essentials

• Laptop or tablet and charger
• Phones and chargers (including personal and business)
• Headphones or earbuds
• Adapters/converters (for international travel)
• Notepad and pen (even in the digital age, these still come in handy!)
• Business cards (or have your digital business card link ready to share)
• Printed business files (see tip #9)
• Comfortable business bag (laptop bag, purse)
• Passport or ID for legal travel to/from your destination
• Copy of itinerary , including car rental and hotel reservation details , in case your technology is lost or loses battery
• Boarding pass (this can be digital)
• Photocopies of critical documents and resources (see tip #10)

Personal Items

• Purse and/or wallet (limit yourself to one functional purse)
• Glasses/contacts
• Refillable water bottle
• Jewelry and watch
• All-weather items (hat, sunglasses, umbrella, waterproof shoes)
• Entertainment (download podcasts, books, TV shows, and movies to your devices so you can enjoy them when you don’t have internet access)
• Sleep essentials (ear plugs, eye mask, neck pillow)

Personal Hygiene Items

• Toothbrush and paste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Brush or comb
• Lotion, skincare products, and sunscreen
• Makeup and styling products
• Hand steamer
• Essential medications
• Emergency kit (include band-aids, pain relievers, cold and sinus medication, etc.)

*Note: While you might find some of these items at your hotel, they aren’t guaranteed. Check with your hotel before packing to see which of these items you should bring yourself.

Need a bit more help planning your trip? Check out more great business travel tips here !

Hope Salvatori

Hope is a Senior Content Marketing Associate who has been with Cvent for more than two years. She has 8 years of experience producing content for corporations, small businesses, associations, nonprofits, and universities. As a content professional, she has created content for a wide range of industries, including meetings and events, government and defense, education, health, and more.

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The future of tourism: Bridging the labor gap, enhancing customer experience

As travel resumes and builds momentum, it’s becoming clear that tourism is resilient—there is an enduring desire to travel. Against all odds, international tourism rebounded in 2022: visitor numbers to Europe and the Middle East climbed to around 80 percent of 2019 levels, and the Americas recovered about 65 percent of prepandemic visitors 1 “Tourism set to return to pre-pandemic levels in some regions in 2023,” United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), January 17, 2023. —a number made more significant because it was reached without travelers from China, which had the world’s largest outbound travel market before the pandemic. 2 “ Outlook for China tourism 2023: Light at the end of the tunnel ,” McKinsey, May 9, 2023.

Recovery and growth are likely to continue. According to estimates from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for 2023, international tourist arrivals could reach 80 to 95 percent of prepandemic levels depending on the extent of the economic slowdown, travel recovery in Asia–Pacific, and geopolitical tensions, among other factors. 3 “Tourism set to return to pre-pandemic levels in some regions in 2023,” United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), January 17, 2023. Similarly, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts that by the end of 2023, nearly half of the 185 countries in which the organization conducts research will have either recovered to prepandemic levels or be within 95 percent of full recovery. 4 “Global travel and tourism catapults into 2023 says WTTC,” World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), April 26, 2023.

Longer-term forecasts also point to optimism for the decade ahead. Travel and tourism GDP is predicted to grow, on average, at 5.8 percent a year between 2022 and 2032, outpacing the growth of the overall economy at an expected 2.7 percent a year. 5 Travel & Tourism economic impact 2022 , WTTC, August 2022.

So, is it all systems go for travel and tourism? Not really. The industry continues to face a prolonged and widespread labor shortage. After losing 62 million travel and tourism jobs in 2020, labor supply and demand remain out of balance. 6 “WTTC research reveals Travel & Tourism’s slow recovery is hitting jobs and growth worldwide,” World Travel & Tourism Council, October 6, 2021. Today, in the European Union, 11 percent of tourism jobs are likely to go unfilled; in the United States, that figure is 7 percent. 7 Travel & Tourism economic impact 2022 : Staff shortages, WTTC, August 2022.

There has been an exodus of tourism staff, particularly from customer-facing roles, to other sectors, and there is no sign that the industry will be able to bring all these people back. 8 Travel & Tourism economic impact 2022 : Staff shortages, WTTC, August 2022. Hotels, restaurants, cruises, airports, and airlines face staff shortages that can translate into operational, reputational, and financial difficulties. If unaddressed, these shortages may constrain the industry’s growth trajectory.

The current labor shortage may have its roots in factors related to the nature of work in the industry. Chronic workplace challenges, coupled with the effects of COVID-19, have culminated in an industry struggling to rebuild its workforce. Generally, tourism-related jobs are largely informal, partly due to high seasonality and weak regulation. And conditions such as excessively long working hours, low wages, a high turnover rate, and a lack of social protection tend to be most pronounced in an informal economy. Additionally, shift work, night work, and temporary or part-time employment are common in tourism.

The industry may need to revisit some fundamentals to build a far more sustainable future: either make the industry more attractive to talent (and put conditions in place to retain staff for longer periods) or improve products, services, and processes so that they complement existing staffing needs or solve existing pain points.

One solution could be to build a workforce with the mix of digital and interpersonal skills needed to keep up with travelers’ fast-changing requirements. The industry could make the most of available technology to provide customers with a digitally enhanced experience, resolve staff shortages, and improve working conditions.

Would you like to learn more about our Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice ?

Complementing concierges with chatbots.

The pace of technological change has redefined customer expectations. Technology-driven services are often at customers’ fingertips, with no queues or waiting times. By contrast, the airport and airline disruption widely reported in the press over the summer of 2022 points to customers not receiving this same level of digital innovation when traveling.

Imagine the following travel experience: it’s 2035 and you start your long-awaited honeymoon to a tropical island. A virtual tour operator and a destination travel specialist booked your trip for you; you connected via videoconference to make your plans. Your itinerary was chosen with the support of generative AI , which analyzed your preferences, recommended personalized travel packages, and made real-time adjustments based on your feedback.

Before leaving home, you check in online and QR code your luggage. You travel to the airport by self-driving cab. After dropping off your luggage at the self-service counter, you pass through security and the biometric check. You access the premier lounge with the QR code on the airline’s loyalty card and help yourself to a glass of wine and a sandwich. After your flight, a prebooked, self-driving cab takes you to the resort. No need to check in—that was completed online ahead of time (including picking your room and making sure that the hotel’s virtual concierge arranged for red roses and a bottle of champagne to be delivered).

While your luggage is brought to the room by a baggage robot, your personal digital concierge presents the honeymoon itinerary with all the requested bookings. For the romantic dinner on the first night, you order your food via the restaurant app on the table and settle the bill likewise. So far, you’ve had very little human interaction. But at dinner, the sommelier chats with you in person about the wine. The next day, your sightseeing is made easier by the hotel app and digital guide—and you don’t get lost! With the aid of holographic technology, the virtual tour guide brings historical figures to life and takes your sightseeing experience to a whole new level. Then, as arranged, a local citizen meets you and takes you to their home to enjoy a local family dinner. The trip is seamless, there are no holdups or snags.

This scenario features less human interaction than a traditional trip—but it flows smoothly due to the underlying technology. The human interactions that do take place are authentic, meaningful, and add a special touch to the experience. This may be a far-fetched example, but the essence of the scenario is clear: use technology to ease typical travel pain points such as queues, misunderstandings, or misinformation, and elevate the quality of human interaction.

Travel with less human interaction may be considered a disruptive idea, as many travelers rely on and enjoy the human connection, the “service with a smile.” This will always be the case, but perhaps the time is right to think about bringing a digital experience into the mix. The industry may not need to depend exclusively on human beings to serve its customers. Perhaps the future of travel is physical, but digitally enhanced (and with a smile!).

Digital solutions are on the rise and can help bridge the labor gap

Digital innovation is improving customer experience across multiple industries. Car-sharing apps have overcome service-counter waiting times and endless paperwork that travelers traditionally had to cope with when renting a car. The same applies to time-consuming hotel check-in, check-out, and payment processes that can annoy weary customers. These pain points can be removed. For instance, in China, the Huazhu Hotels Group installed self-check-in kiosks that enable guests to check in or out in under 30 seconds. 9 “Huazhu Group targets lifestyle market opportunities,” ChinaTravelNews, May 27, 2021.

Technology meets hospitality

In 2019, Alibaba opened its FlyZoo Hotel in Huangzhou, described as a “290-room ultra-modern boutique, where technology meets hospitality.” 1 “Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba has a hotel run almost entirely by robots that can serve food and fetch toiletries—take a look inside,” Business Insider, October 21, 2019; “FlyZoo Hotel: The hotel of the future or just more technology hype?,” Hotel Technology News, March 2019. The hotel was the first of its kind that instead of relying on traditional check-in and key card processes, allowed guests to manage reservations and make payments entirely from a mobile app, to check-in using self-service kiosks, and enter their rooms using facial-recognition technology.

The hotel is run almost entirely by robots that serve food and fetch toiletries and other sundries as needed. Each guest room has a voice-activated smart assistant to help guests with a variety of tasks, from adjusting the temperature, lights, curtains, and the TV to playing music and answering simple questions about the hotel and surroundings.

The hotel was developed by the company’s online travel platform, Fliggy, in tandem with Alibaba’s AI Labs and Alibaba Cloud technology with the goal of “leveraging cutting-edge tech to help transform the hospitality industry, one that keeps the sector current with the digital era we’re living in,” according to the company.

Adoption of some digitally enhanced services was accelerated during the pandemic in the quest for safer, contactless solutions. During the Winter Olympics in Beijing, a restaurant designed to keep physical contact to a minimum used a track system on the ceiling to deliver meals directly from the kitchen to the table. 10 “This Beijing Winter Games restaurant uses ceiling-based tracks,” Trendhunter, January 26, 2022. Customers around the world have become familiar with restaurants using apps to display menus, take orders, and accept payment, as well as hotels using robots to deliver luggage and room service (see sidebar “Technology meets hospitality”). Similarly, theme parks, cinemas, stadiums, and concert halls are deploying digital solutions such as facial recognition to optimize entrance control. Shanghai Disneyland, for example, offers annual pass holders the option to choose facial recognition to facilitate park entry. 11 “Facial recognition park entry,” Shanghai Disney Resort website.

Automation and digitization can also free up staff from attending to repetitive functions that could be handled more efficiently via an app and instead reserve the human touch for roles where staff can add the most value. For instance, technology can help customer-facing staff to provide a more personalized service. By accessing data analytics, frontline staff can have guests’ details and preferences at their fingertips. A trainee can become an experienced concierge in a short time, with the help of technology.

Apps and in-room tech: Unused market potential

According to Skift Research calculations, total revenue generated by guest apps and in-room technology in 2019 was approximately $293 million, including proprietary apps by hotel brands as well as third-party vendors. 1 “Hotel tech benchmark: Guest-facing technology 2022,” Skift Research, November 2022. The relatively low market penetration rate of this kind of tech points to around $2.4 billion in untapped revenue potential (exhibit).

Even though guest-facing technology is available—the kind that can facilitate contactless interactions and offer travelers convenience and personalized service—the industry is only beginning to explore its potential. A report by Skift Research shows that the hotel industry, in particular, has not tapped into tech’s potential. Only 11 percent of hotels and 25 percent of hotel rooms worldwide are supported by a hotel app or use in-room technology, and only 3 percent of hotels offer keyless entry. 12 “Hotel tech benchmark: Guest-facing technology 2022,” Skift Research, November 2022. Of the five types of technology examined (guest apps and in-room tech; virtual concierge; guest messaging and chatbots; digital check-in and kiosks; and keyless entry), all have relatively low market-penetration rates (see sidebar “Apps and in-room tech: Unused market potential”).

While apps, digitization, and new technology may be the answer to offering better customer experience, there is also the possibility that tourism may face competition from technological advances, particularly virtual experiences. Museums, attractions, and historical sites can be made interactive and, in some cases, more lifelike, through AR/VR technology that can enhance the physical travel experience by reconstructing historical places or events.

Up until now, tourism, arguably, was one of a few sectors that could not easily be replaced by tech. It was not possible to replicate the physical experience of traveling to another place. With the emerging metaverse , this might change. Travelers could potentially enjoy an event or experience from their sofa without any logistical snags, and without the commitment to traveling to another country for any length of time. For example, Google offers virtual tours of the Pyramids of Meroë in Sudan via an immersive online experience available in a range of languages. 13 Mariam Khaled Dabboussi, “Step into the Meroë pyramids with Google,” Google, May 17, 2022. And a crypto banking group, The BCB Group, has created a metaverse city that includes representations of some of the most visited destinations in the world, such as the Great Wall of China and the Statue of Liberty. According to BCB, the total cost of flights, transfers, and entry for all these landmarks would come to $7,600—while a virtual trip would cost just over $2. 14 “What impact can the Metaverse have on the travel industry?,” Middle East Economy, July 29, 2022.

The metaverse holds potential for business travel, too—the meeting, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector in particular. Participants could take part in activities in the same immersive space while connecting from anywhere, dramatically reducing travel, venue, catering, and other costs. 15 “ Tourism in the metaverse: Can travel go virtual? ,” McKinsey, May 4, 2023.

The allure and convenience of such digital experiences make offering seamless, customer-centric travel and tourism in the real world all the more pressing.

Three innovations to solve hotel staffing shortages

Is the future contactless.

Given the advances in technology, and the many digital innovations and applications that already exist, there is potential for businesses across the travel and tourism spectrum to cope with labor shortages while improving customer experience. Process automation and digitization can also add to process efficiency. Taken together, a combination of outsourcing, remote work, and digital solutions can help to retain existing staff and reduce dependency on roles that employers are struggling to fill (exhibit).

Depending on the customer service approach and direct contact need, we estimate that the travel and tourism industry would be able to cope with a structural labor shortage of around 10 to 15 percent in the long run by operating more flexibly and increasing digital and automated efficiency—while offering the remaining staff an improved total work package.

Outsourcing and remote work could also help resolve the labor shortage

While COVID-19 pushed organizations in a wide variety of sectors to embrace remote work, there are many hospitality roles that rely on direct physical services that cannot be performed remotely, such as laundry, cleaning, maintenance, and facility management. If faced with staff shortages, these roles could be outsourced to third-party professional service providers, and existing staff could be reskilled to take up new positions.

In McKinsey’s experience, the total service cost of this type of work in a typical hotel can make up 10 percent of total operating costs. Most often, these roles are not guest facing. A professional and digital-based solution might become an integrated part of a third-party service for hotels looking to outsource this type of work.

One of the lessons learned in the aftermath of COVID-19 is that many tourism employees moved to similar positions in other sectors because they were disillusioned by working conditions in the industry . Specialist multisector companies have been able to shuffle their staff away from tourism to other sectors that offer steady employment or more regular working hours compared with the long hours and seasonal nature of work in tourism.

The remaining travel and tourism staff may be looking for more flexibility or the option to work from home. This can be an effective solution for retaining employees. For example, a travel agent with specific destination expertise could work from home or be consulted on an needs basis.

In instances where remote work or outsourcing is not viable, there are other solutions that the hospitality industry can explore to improve operational effectiveness as well as employee satisfaction. A more agile staffing model  can better match available labor with peaks and troughs in daily, or even hourly, demand. This could involve combining similar roles or cross-training staff so that they can switch roles. Redesigned roles could potentially improve employee satisfaction by empowering staff to explore new career paths within the hotel’s operations. Combined roles build skills across disciplines—for example, supporting a housekeeper to train and become proficient in other maintenance areas, or a front-desk associate to build managerial skills.

Where management or ownership is shared across properties, roles could be staffed to cover a network of sites, rather than individual hotels. By applying a combination of these approaches, hotels could reduce the number of staff hours needed to keep operations running at the same standard. 16 “ Three innovations to solve hotel staffing shortages ,” McKinsey, April 3, 2023.

Taken together, operational adjustments combined with greater use of technology could provide the tourism industry with a way of overcoming staffing challenges and giving customers the seamless digitally enhanced experiences they expect in other aspects of daily life.

In an industry facing a labor shortage, there are opportunities for tech innovations that can help travel and tourism businesses do more with less, while ensuring that remaining staff are engaged and motivated to stay in the industry. For travelers, this could mean fewer friendly faces, but more meaningful experiences and interactions.

Urs Binggeli is a senior expert in McKinsey’s Zurich office, Zi Chen is a capabilities and insights specialist in the Shanghai office, Steffen Köpke is a capabilities and insights expert in the Düsseldorf office, and Jackey Yu is a partner in the Hong Kong office.

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Beginners Guide to Starting a Tourism Business

Your Beginners Guide to Starting a Tourism Business

Writing for WikiHow, Claire Fess provides eight steps on how to start a tourism business .

Table of Contents

Definition: Tourists are people who travel outside of their home-base environments in order to spend time visiting a different environment in either a business or leisure capacity. Both vacationers and those on business trips are considered tourists, and they may be touring either domestically (within their home country) or internationally. A tourism business is any business that centers on catering to tourists’ needs.

Step 1: Decide on which sector of tourism you would like to focus.

You have several options to choose from when it comes to establishing a business in tourism :

• Transportation service. This sector involves transporting tourists to, from and around the tourist destination.
• Travel agencies. Travel agencies are the 1-stop-shop for everything involved with visiting a place, including transportation, accommodations and attractions.
• Tour Operator. A tour operator typically combines tour and travel components to create a holiday. They prepare an itinerary.
• Destination Management Company . A DMC possesses extensive local knowledge, expertise and resources, specialising in the design and implementation of events, activities, tours, transportation and program logistics.
• Accommodation. These include hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, hostels, rental houses, lodges and any other place tourists may stay while travelling.
• Guided tours and tourist guide. A guided tour service or professional tourist guide is a tourism business that specializes in providing informative and entertaining tours through an area’s local attractions.
• Hospitality. A hospitality business pertains to any food or beverage establishment that tourists may frequent.

Step 2: Take your geographical location into account.

Your local tourist attractions are good indicators of what would and would not make a successful tourism business venture. For example, if your area is secluded from the populace and dense with wineries, then guided winery tours, local bed and breakfasts, and airport transportation services are all viable business options.

Step 3: Size up the competition.

Thoroughly research the tourism businesses in your area before you decide which business in tourism is right for you. You will want to choose a tourism sector that is not overly congested, and one that you can contribute something unique to.

Step 4: Write a business plan.

Your business plan is the blueprint for your tourism business, and should include the following sections:

• Executive summary. Describe your business’s purpose, name, location, personnel needs, tourism business management staff, market sector, competition, marketing plan and financial projections.
• Tourism business summary. This should detail how the business’s ownership will be distributed and the start up requirements (funding, assets and location).
• Products and/or services. You need to outline the products and/or services your business will be providing for tourists.
• Analysis of the market. Provide information about your target market and your competition. Tourism business strategy. Describe how you plan on running your business, marketing your business and pricing your product or service.
• Financial summary. State your projections for your business’s expenses and income.

Step 5: Procure the necessary funds.

Present your business plan to potential lenders and/or business partners in order to obtain the start up and operating capital you will need to run your business in tourism.

Step 6: Select a business location.

If you plan to operate a walk-in travel agency or an accommodation establishment, there are 3-things to consider. They are location, location, and location!

Step 7: Obtain all applicable business licenses.

Get the necessary business licensing through your local government’s business regulatory agency.

Step 8: Market your tourism business :

• Use social networking sites . Set up accounts/pages on free social networking sites such as Linked In .
• Create a website for your tourism business. Be sure to hire a specialist for search engine optimization (SEO) in order to maximize your site’s online presence. List your business on all applicable online directories and review websites.
• Advertise in print mediums. Take out ad space in newspapers, magazines and trade/lifestyle publications.

Source: www.wikihow.com/Develop-a-Tourism-Business

Read more on this topic:

• 10 Steps To Starting Your Own Tourist Transport Business
• How To Streamline Your Tour Operator Business
• 10 Tips on Selecting Tour Operator Software
• 10 Tips on Tour Quoting
• How to Keep Tour Itineraries Current
• So you want to be a tour operator?
• The Role of Tour Operators in Safari Bookings
• 13 Tips to surviving as a Small Tourism Business
• Effective Sales Secrets For Small Businesses

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The five steps to becoming a sustainable tourism business

• April 5, 2023

Image provided by Sandals Resorts

By Melinda Watt, Chief Scientist and Vice President Relationship Management

The tourism industry has a critical role to play in promoting sustainable development and protecting the natural and cultural resources that make travel possible. Here’s what it takes to become a sustainable tourism business. 

Sustainability has evolved into an essential component for long-term success within the tourism industry. Embracing sustainable practices demonstrates a commitment to responsible and enduring growth, benefiting both businesses and the environment.

With 55 per cent of visitors wanting to leave the places they visit better than when they arrive, sustainable tourism is not only good for the environment and local communities, it’s also good for business. Sustainable tourism businesses are simply better positioned to attract guests who are increasingly concerned about the impact of their travel choices. 

But it’s one thing to aspire to sustainability, and another to actually implement sustainable management practices in your business. 

To begin with, it’s important to define what we’re talking about when we talk about sustainability. According to the global standard definition used by the United Nations, sustainability means “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs”. 

It’s about not taking more than your fair share, and making sure everyone around the world has the same access to a great quality of life – both now and into the future. 

In 2015, the United Nations established 17 goals as part of The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was signed by all United Nations member states. The goals cover the following themes:

• No poverty 
• Zero hunger 
• Good health and wellbeing 
• Quality education 
• Gender equality 
• Clean water and sanitation 
• Affordable and clean energy  
• Decent work and economic growth 
• Industry, innovation and infrastructure 
• Reduced inequalities 
• Sustainable cities and communities 
• Responsible consumption and production 
• Climate action 
• Life below water 
• Life on land 
• Peace, justice and strong institutions 
• Partnerships for the goals 

These goals can be related to any business – but the tourism industry, which represents about 10 per cent of the global workforce and is responsible for about 8 per cent of global carbon emissions , has a particularly significant role to play. 

Sustainability management is the combination of business strategies, operations and behaviours you use to complement your business performance with your sustainability outcomes. 

In short, it’s about managing your resources throughout your business with future generations in mind. 

EarthCheck is committed to supporting businesses to make positive, lasting change, which is why we developed EarthCheck Certified almost 25 years ago. 

It’s a certification program for environmental and social sustainability used by hundreds of travel and tourism-related organisations in more than 70 countries, from resorts and hotels to convention centres, tour operators and transportation. 

By following the steps laid out in the EarthCheck Company Standard , you are building a sustainability management system (SMS) for your business enabling you to achieve your sustainability goals and positively impact the world around you. 

Step one: Commitment 

Your business should appoint a sustainability champion and supporting green team whose role is to ensure the SMS is developed and implemented. The sustainability champion’s role should also include reporting on the business’ performance to management and key stakeholders, using the metrics identified in the SMS. 

The first step in an organisation’s journey towards sustainability is a commitment that sustainability isn’t an add-on, but an integral part of the vision and mission of your business. 

To demonstrate this commitment, you need a sustainability policy. This policy should strategically outline your commitment to sustainability by highlighting your goals, and how you’ll achieve them.  

To write your policy, you’ll need to identify your business scope – the areas your business has control over. 

Your policy should include the following commitments within your scope. 

Protection of the environment 

Your sustainability policy should commit your business to preventing adverse environmental impacts from your operations, and reducing your consumption of natural resources. 

Continuous Improvement 

Your policy should commit your business to developing and improving your environmental, energy and social sustainability efforts over time, and assessing your performance by setting annual targets and goals. 

Compliance 

Your business needs to commit to being in compliance with all international, national and local laws and regulations that apply to it. This includes not only environmental laws, but also human rights and health standards.

Employment 

Your policy should include your commitment to hiring local people, including for management positions, and contributing to local employment and economic development. 

Procurement 

Finally, your policy should commit your business to supporting local products and services, and giving preference to products and services that follow fair trade principles. 

Once you have your policy, it needs to be supported and signed off on by the person at the highest managerial level – usually the CEO or General Manager – to ensure it will be adopted by the entire business. 

It should be promoted and communicated to all key stakeholders – including employees, customers and suppliers – and it should be made publicly available. 

Your policy should be reviewed annually, to ensure it still aligns to your sustainability journey, and staff should receive training as required so they can meet the requirements of the policy as it evolves over time. 

Step two: Measuring and benchmarking your performance 

At EarthCheck, there’s one simple credo that we live by – what gets measured gets managed. 

If you have an understanding of how you’re currently performing, and how that performance compares to your competitors, you can identify areas where your business might be able to improve your sustainability practices. 

To help understand your performance, the EarthCheck Certified program uses these 10 key performance areas (KPAs). These KPAs, which include a range of environmental, economic and social metrics, are aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. 

• Greenhouse gas emissions 
• Energy efficiency, conservation and management 
• Management of freshwater resources 
• Ecosystem conservation and management 
• Social and cultural management 
• Land use planning and management 
• Air quality protection 
• Wastewater management 
• Solid waste management 
• Environmentally harmful substances 

Measuring your performance 

Before you start collecting data, it’s important to get your methodology correct up front, so you’re consistently measuring and monitoring your performance. It’s important to keep your methods simple and replicable, so other team members can repeat them in the future. 

First, decide on a suitable data collection period. At EarthCheck, we recommend a 12-month period – this will help you to recognise trends over time and avoid overreacting to seasonal changes. 

Next, identify the data you want to collect and how. Make sure you incorporate any existing data collection methods – for instance, if you’re already collecting water meter readings, make this part of your methodology for monitoring water consumption. You can also collect water consumption data from water bills. 

Similarly, energy consumption can be collected from energy or gas bills, meter readings or utility reports. You can also measure the waste your business is disposing of by reviewing waste disposal bills or weighing it over a defined period. 

The EarthCheck steps help you to develop your methodology, and identify what’s missing in the data you’re currently collecting.

As well as monitoring the 10 KPAs, businesses can nominate optional indicators to other campaigns and initiatives they may support or work on.

For instance, you may want to track the number of trees you plant, the number of hours you volunteer, or the number of turtle hatchlings you release into the wild.  

Benchmarking your performance 

Once you know how you’re performing, you can compare your performance to your peers.

EarthCheck uses benchmarks to gauge your performance against other businesses. But not just any other businesses – you are compared to businesses within your sector, country, region and climate zone.

Using applicable activity measures – measures that reflect the key operations of your business, e.g. guest nights for accommodation operators – EarthCheck compares your performance to similar businesses. 

EarthCheck has carried out comprehensive global research, gathering over 100 million data points over two decades. This research has been used to establish benchmarks for over 30 travel and tourism industries. To keep up with the latest best practices, EarthCheck updates these benchmarks each year.

Actions you can take to improve your performance and reach your benchmarks include: 

• Implementing energy-efficient practices and reducing the use of non-renewable resources. 
• Using eco-friendly products and services wherever possible, such as recycled paper and eco-friendly cleaning products. 
• Promoting water conservation practices and implementing water-efficient technologies.
• Implementing recycling and composting programs and minimising the use of disposable products. 
• Using sustainable transport options, such as electric or hybrid vehicles, and encouraging guests to use public or alternative transport options. 
• Engaging with local communities positively and meaningfully, respecting local customs and traditions while promoting cultural exchange. 
• Promoting sustainable food practices, such as using locally sourced, organic and seasonal ingredients and minimising food waste. 
• Promoting relevant conservation initiatives and participating in environmental restoration projects. 
• Educating guests about sustainable tourism practices. 
• Partnering with other sustainable tourism businesses and organisations to promote sustainability and share best practices. 

Jamey Ford, Director of Global Engineering & Asset Management at Kerzner International, has been using EarthCheck’s performance benchmarks to make improvements to the group’s properties for the last four years. 

“As an organisation with a global footprint, it’s extremely important for us to have a globally recognised framework to adhere to,” he says. “And because EarthCheck’s platform is specifically tailored to the travel and tourism industry, the partnership works very well between us. 

“The EarthCheck Certified program has given us a framework to enter all of our data into, which gives us a clarity we have not had before. From our Global HQ in Dubai, I now have access to a dashboard that gives me insight into the performance of all of our properties across the world. Having that structure in place really helps to drive us forward and ensure we’re improving year-on-year.”

Step three: Governance and risk management 

Governance establishes a framework for your business to promote sustainability while operating within legal and ethical boundaries. This includes complying with all applicable local, national and international laws and regulations, and keeping a legal register of the legislation that applies to your business – and it also includes identifying and mitigating risk.

Risk, in this context, is the potential for ecological harm or adverse environmental impact as a result of the activities your business undertakes. 

The first step is to identify risks, and break them down into categories. These can include: 

• Environmental, social and cultural risks 
• Risks to business processes and systems 
• Legal and regulatory compliance risks
• Risks from external influences, such as extreme weather and cost increases 
• Financial risks 
• Health and safety risks 
• The risks of emergencies and accidents 
• Reputational risks 

Once you’ve identified risks, you need to assess them by applying a risk assessment matrix. In other words, you need to consider how likely the risks are, and what the consequences would be if they were to occur. This will help you to determine which risks you need to prioritise. 

To do your own risk assessment for your business, ask yourself these three questions: 

• How likely is the risk to impact the environment and/or the business? 
• How severe will the consequences be for the social, cultural and ecological environment? 
• Can the risk be mitigated or prevented, and at what cost? 

Your risk assessment should be reviewed and updated annually, because the likelihood and consequences of risks are ever-changing. For instance, you’re almost certainly more likely to face a data breach now than you were five years ago, and you’re probably more likely to encounter a disruption to your supply chain now than you were before the pandemic. 

Conducting this assessment regularly helps you to be proactive, rather than reactive, in developing strategies to minimise, mitigate and manage risks, increase operational efficiency, and enhance your business’ social and environmental performance. 

It also directly informs your next step – the development of a sustainability management system. 

Step four: Developing a sustainability management system 

Now that you have your policies and plans, it’s time to create a formal structure to put them into place.

An SMS is the framework for documenting all of your policies, procedures and plans relating to the 10 KPAs. 

It should include your sustainability policy and risk assessment, as well as your goals, targets, legal register, standard operating procedures, waste management plan, complaints policy and procedures, benchmarking methodology, and communication plan. 

It should include the metrics that you use to measure and monitor your performance, and details about which teams are responsible for which of your sustainability practices. 

An SMS, such as the one contained within the MyEarthCheck portal, keeps all of this documentation in one place

It’s important to remember that sustainability is everyone’s responsibility. All staff should be engaged with the development and implementation of the SMS, and receive periodic training – from their induction onwards – to ensure they know their responsibilities and can fulfil their role in the SMS’ requirements. 

It’s also important to keep in mind that developing your SMS is an ongoing process, and it will continually improve as you embark on your sustainability journey. 

Step five: Communication 

The final step is to communicate that your business is committed to making tourism a positive contributor to the environment, the economy, and the community. 

Of course, everybody loves a quiet achiever, but communicating your sustainability story is important. 

Effective communication can be a powerful tool in engaging your business stakeholders – your team, suppliers, communities and visitors – to support you to achieve the sustainability outcomes you’re striving for. 

According to Unily’s Decade of Disruption: Future of the Sustainable Workplace report , only 16 per cent of workers believe their employers have clearly communicated their sustainability policies – despite the fact that 65 per cent of those same respondents are more likely to work for a company with a strong sustainability policy. 

And at a time when 61 per cent of travellers want to know more about how to travel sustainably, and 80 per cent are expressing a desire to learn about local culture when on vacation, effective communication can encourage visitors to change their behaviour while visiting national, cultural and heritage sites, and to participate in your sustainability initiatives. It can also influence the decision-making of future visitors who see that your business’ values align with their own. 

It can turn your visitors and staff into your best ambassadors, and give you a competitive advantage against other businesses who don’t share your strength on social, cultural and environmental issues. 

Effective communication can lead to increased word-of-mouth business, repeat visitation, and additional media publicity and coverage. 

EarthCheck’s tips for effective sustainability communication include: 

• Align your messages to different audiences when communicating your sustainability goals, outcomes and processes. For instance, your communication with your own team will look different to your communication with visitors. 
• Be authentic and transparent in your communication. Be accurate, and don’t ever promise more than you can deliver. 
• Respond to any feedback you receive, and listen to different points of view. 
• Make your communications engaging. For instance, don’t just share the details of your initiatives or your activity measures – put them in context and tell people what they mean and why they’re important. 
• Acknowledge every win! 

Sustainability certification is an effective tool for communicating your sustainability story to visitors, suppliers and other stakeholders. With 84 per cent of consumers actively seeking positive environmental commitments from the companies they do business with, it’s important to have your sustainability policies, activities and initiatives verified and assessed by an independent third party such as EarthCheck. 

EarthCheck’s independent audit creates a sense of trust in the marketplace, and our science-based approach can help your business to achieve your sustainability vision and goals. 

EarthCheck is here to help tourism businesses like yours increase your efficiencies, maximise your visitor experience, and minimise your footprint on an ongoing basis. 

Learn more about EarthCheck’s sustainability certification programs for tourism businesses here . 

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There are more than 476 million Indigenous Peoples, found in all regions of the world, from the Arctic to the tropical forests. They make up more than 6 per cent of our global population.

In the spirit of reconciliation, EarthCheck acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout the world and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Indigenous Peoples today.

EarthCheck acknowledges that Indigenous Peoples are guardians of the forests and biodiversity hotspots we all depend on. Research shows that lands managed by Indigenous Peoples, with secure rights, experience lower deforestation rates, store more carbon, hold more biodiversity, and benefit more people than other lands — including protected areas.

We recognise and support the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the most comprehensive international instrument on the rights of Indigenous Peoples. The Declaration is a positive document that maps out a path for Indigenous Peoples to be free from discrimination and secure in their identities and life choices.

EarthCheck Certified: Aligned globally

EarthCheck science and products were developed by the Australian Government Sustainable Tourism Co-operative Research Centre (STCRC) over ten years. Our science is reviewed annually to ensure that it meets international standards relative to greenhouse gas protocols, responsible tourism, and certification.

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The EarthCheck brand signifies scientific excellence, better environmental, economic, and social performance, improved community interactions, and savings through more efficient use of resources. It provides recognition and promotional support to a global consumer market.

40 Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas

From providing lodging to leading guided tours, the opportunities for success in the travel and hospitality industry are numerous. Your potential tourism business can take many different forms as the commodities of traveling are multifaceted and broad.

Whatever your motivation for wanting to begin your entrepreneurial journey T ravel business ideas and Hospitality business ideas are a great place to start!

Best Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas for 2020

1. airbnb business.

An Airbnb business supplies guests with a place to stay within a person’s home. Many travelers are looking for lodging which is a little more personal and unique. Airbnb rentals offer a home feel, versus that of a hotel or motel. Guests may stay as short as one or two days or extended stays up to two weeks.

An Airbnb is a great way to add some extra income, especially if you have unused rooms or lots of space in your house. You will have guests staying in your home, so you should be comfortable talking and interacting with guests. Some homeowners, who travel often, will also rent out their homes when they are out of town. This allows them to receive income and have someone watching their home when they’re not around.

Learn how to start an Airbnb business .

2. AIRPORT SHUTTLE BUSINESS

Airport shuttles transport people between the airport and either their homes, hotels, or where they parked their cars. Airport shuttles are used by business travelers, groups, families, and solo riders. The driver picks travelers up at a predetermined location and drops them off wherever necessary; typically with no more than two stops on each route. Vehicles are generally spacious, with ample room for riders to store their luggage.

Individuals possessing the drive to start their own travel business and the inclination to interact with people would be best suited for this business endeavor. Since much time is spent on the road, the entrepreneur that enjoys driving would be the ideal candidate.

Learn how to start an airport shuttle business .

3. AMUSEMENT PARK

Amusement, or theme, parks feature rides, games, and entertainment options in an outdoor or indoor venue. Customers typically pay a single entry fee for access to the entire park. The successful amusement park model focuses on the customer's entire experience, offering a wide range of services and entertainment options including parking, trams, restaurant options, water parks, roller coasters, live animal attractions, stage shows, arcade games, attractive interactive landscaping, and family-friendly fun. The larger the property you own, the more entertainment choices you are able to offer your customers.

You must be a highly motivated individual ready to sink a large initial investment into the concept, design, and implementation of your amusement park. You may need extensive knowledge in the operation of rides, restaurant and guest services, landscaping design, business practices, and have significant leadership skills.

Learn how to start an amusement park .

4. BED AND BREAKFAST

A bed and breakfast business offers travelers an alternative to hotels and motels, by combining sleeping quarters with a full breakfast. Most bed and breakfasts also promise more unique, intimate settings than other lodging options.

Anyone who enjoys hosting others may be well-suited for owning a bed and breakfast business because guests come to B&Bs for a level of hospitality that hotels and motels don’t provide. Business owners should like talking with people, cooking meals, and making guests feel comfortable.

Learn how to start a bed and breakfast .

5. BIKE RENTAL BUSINESS

Bike rental businesses give customers—who are often, but not necessarily, tourists—bicycles for a short period. Bikes are generally rented for a few hours to recreationally explore the locality. But the customer base might also consist of college students on campus or others who rent for practical reasons. Your business might be a freestanding shop, part of a bike sales and service operation or associated with a hotel or other hospitality business.

Bike rental business owners should be mechanically adept since customers can be hard on bikes. Also, since bikes are often rented to explore the immediate area, you should be highly familiar with your home base and able to suggest tourist attractions. You should have an engaging personality and be motivated to deliver exceptional customer service.

Learn how to start a bike rental business .

6. BIKE TOUR COMPANY

Do you love exploring your home town or popular tourist destinations on your bike? Does it really make your day when you bring a friend along to see the sights? Operating a bike tour company may be right up your alley. Whether you are simply renting bicycles and maps for patrons to use on their own or providing week-long personalized guided tours that include meals and lodging, this can be a rewarding travel business.

If you are going to run a one-man show, you will need to be physically fit, have fantastic people skills, and enjoy managing the many facets of your business. If you are operating a large tourist attraction, the right owner will have a good background in business management with a focus on the service industry.

Learn how to start a bike tour company .

7. BOUTIQUE TOUR BUSINESS

This travel business idea differs from a traditional tour guide service in that the focus is not on the popular tourist destinations. Instead, it focuses more on unique and special experiences. Both local residents and tourists enjoy these types of tours/parties.

People like to do things that feel more authentic and consistent with what locals do versus just taking a sightseeing tour to see the major attractions. These can be very active experiences such as hiking, climbing, bungee-jumping, flying down a wire cable over the tree canopy, whitewater rafting and so much more. Many prefer such active experiences when compared to the traditional bus tours where tour guides describe things as the bus passes them by.

Learn how to start a boutique tour business .

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the  Top LLC Formation Services And, use our free tools to help start your business: Use our  Business Name Generator  for help brainstorming your new venture’s name Learn  how to form an LLC , one of the  best business structures  for travel businesses Use our free  business plan generator  to start planning your business today Get your unique logo with our free  Logo Maker  and start branding your business After finding your perfect idea learn how to  start a business

8. BUS TOUR BUSINESS

A bus tour business provides tours for tourists as well as locals. Tours of scenic and historical areas and other sites of interest are a valuable community service. Bus tours connect people with others for a shared experience. They also educate people about historical landmarks, local history, geography and other important aspects of your city and the surrounding area.

If you are looking to give people the opportunity to learn more about a locale while enjoying the company of others, a bus tour business is right for you. This is your chance to bring people closer together. Bus tours also enhance understanding and respect for cities, towns, landmarks and special sites. Bus tour customers gain a new appreciation for the area in which the tour is conducted.

Learn how to start a bus tour business .

9. CAMPGROUND

If you love the outdoors and some hard work, you could start a campground business. Whether you have land or are purchasing land, you could start enjoying the great outdoors and working for yourself as soon as you get everything set up. You'll provide a place for people who are passing through on their way to another destination and for those who want to enjoy some time connecting with nature. Campers use all sorts of shelters from tents to fully contained RVs.

Before you start a campground business, you'll need the knowledge and willingness it takes to do many things, including accounting, repairs, road maintenance, plumbing, electrical maintenance, and management. You may be able to farm some of these things out, but it is much more cost-effective to do these things yourself.

Learn how to start a campground .

10. CANOE & KAYAK RENTAL BUSINESS

Many people enjoy being on the water, but they either do not own a boat or want to go boating where they can't bring theirs. A canoe and kayak rental business lets people rent canoes and kayaks to take out on nearby waterways. Customers can take canoes out for as little as an hour or as long as a day or more.

Anyone who enjoys canoeing and kayaking may be well-suited to open a canoe and kayak rental business. Business owners also must be strong enough to move canoes and kayaks onshore.

Learn how to start a canoe & kayak rental business .

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Powered by godaddy.com, 11. car rental business.

Another one of many travel business ideas is a car rental company. A car rental business rents vehicles at affordable daily and weekly prices. All sorts of different parties are interested in car rentals. Common customers include business and leisure travelers, those whose vehicles are out of commission and businesses.

This business is ideal for someone who has a sincere interest in automobiles, automobile maintenance, and the driving experience.

Learn how to start a car rental business .

12. CORPORATE RETREAT CENTER

Many companies take employees on retreats for training, development, and team-building experiences. Corporate retreat center businesses offer a place for holding these company-sponsored retreats and frequently help companies plan their retreats.

Anyone who is organized and has strong interpersonal skills may enjoy running a corporate retreat center business. Hosting retreats requires balancing many different tasks, and there’s a constant conversation between the retreat center and the company sponsoring the retreat.

Learn how to start a corporate retreat center .

13. CRUISE LINE

A cruise line has one or several large boats designed to accommodate numerous fun-seeking individuals. This business is centered on providing guests with a good time. Cruise liners are a place for relaxation, socialization, and romance. Cruises are in-demand as they provide people with a fun and relaxing means of vacationing. Cruise lines offer all sorts of social activities on and off the ship. This business is a fantastic way to bring people closer to one another, bolster social ties, and provide people with a sense of belonging.

This is the ideal business or someone who is looking for a way to bring people together for a fun, rewarding and memorable experience. If you are a hospitable individual and enjoy providing people with a good time, you should consider starting a cruise line business. Furthermore, if you enjoy life on the water, good food and entertainment, a cruise ship business is worth considering.

Learn how to start a cruise line .

14. DAY SPA

Day spas provide a relaxing atmosphere and a variety of treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Some of the most common services offered by smaller day spas are facials, massages, manicures and pedicures, waxing, electrolysis, and aromatherapy. Larger day spas with more complex facilities are able to offer additional options such as body wraps, mud baths, or hydrotherapy treatments.

This hospitality business is ideal for those who enjoy relating with people on a personal level to provide services that reduce stress, enhance beauty, and improve health.

Learn how to start a day spa .

15. ECOTOUR BUSINESS

Ecotourism is small scale, low impact tourism that offers travelers an opportunity to learn about the local flora, fauna, and culture. Unlike your standard tour guide service, the focus of ecotourism is to educate guests on how they can positively impact the environment and community they’re visiting. Tourists are able to immerse themselves in the culture and habitat, gaining an understanding of the positive impact each can have on the other. Ecological sustainability and responsibility are the heart of this educating and rewarding experience.

As many consumers ponder the environmental impact humans have had on our environment, there are many who have taken it upon themselves to get out and do something about it. They’ve made it their life’s mission to make positive strides, educating others along the way. Entrepreneurs who have made this their lives’ work and who truly enjoy igniting this passion in others would be best suited for this travel business venture.

Learn how to start an ecotour business .

16. FISHING CHARTER BUSINESS

Many people enjoy fishing, but few people have boats, tackle, and knowledge to go fishing far from shore. Fishing charter businesses take people on fishing trips that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to experience. These trips may range from going into swamps to venturing far offshore. Customers are usually allowed to keep any fish that they catch (assuming the fish are legal to keep).

Anyone who is passionate about fishing and enjoys sharing that passion with other people may be well-suited for running a fishing charter business. Customers expect fishing charter captains to be knowledgeable about and have a love for fishing, and sharing that knowledge and love helps ensure customers have a great time.

Learn how to start a fishing charter business .

17. GLAMPING BUSINESS

A glamping business is next on our comprehensive list of travel startup ideas. Glamping, or "glamorous camping," has taken England by storm and is quickly becoming popular within the United States. Although there aren’t any official statistics for glamping in the U.S., industry insiders have seen a big increase in demand recently. For entrepreneurs, this demand represents an exciting opportunity.

People who enjoy connecting with others and being outdoors may enjoy running a glamping business. Interpersonal skills are necessary because much of the business involves making guests feel welcome. A passion for the outdoors is helpful, for glamping is largely about connecting with nature.

Learn how to start a glamping business .

18. GOLF COURSE

Golf courses provide these people with a place to play the sport. Most courses are 9 or 18 holes, and they may have other amenities, such as clubhouses and pro shops. Anyone who is well-versed in a variety of aspects of business and enjoys golfing themselves may be qualified to run a golf course.

It’s important to have a broad business background because golf courses are multi-faceted businesses. Running one might include course maintenance, employee management, restaurant service, event hosting, and investment opportunities.

Learn how to start a golf course .

19. HAUNTED ATTRACTION

A haunted thrill park is any space designed to entice customers by offering a scary or thrilling experience. Americans spend about $7 billion on Halloween, and $300 million on haunted houses. Haunted thrill parks may be located in makeshift, temporary houses, corn mazes, or even old prisons or asylums. Typically, workers will dress up in costumes and pop out at customers to give them a fright. Props such as fake chainsaws or straight jackets are often used alongside fog machines and soundtracks of creepy noises.

There is an art to scaring people while keeping them safe, so an entrepreneur will have to coordinate the right scenes while ensuring workers understand how to handle the guests. Those who already have a love of haunted houses likely understand what's currently out there, and what people would like to see in the future.

Learn how to start a haunted attraction .

20. HELICOPTER TOUR BUSINESS

A helicopter tour business takes customers on short flights so they can view their city from a bird's-eye view. This is typically marketed as a more expensive service for a more adventurous clientele, and it adds a touch of excitement to any community.

This business is ideal for those already licensed to fly a helicopter, as there is a significant investment of time and money required to acquire a license. As such, it typically makes a good business for retired military personnel. Aside from a knowledge of helicopters, one of the best qualities for this business is to be a “people person,” as you must be able to charm customers before, during, and after the flight.

Learn how to start a helicopter tour business .

Start a Travel and Hospitality Business In Your State

21. hotel business.

A hotel can be any commercial building that charges money to travelers who need a room to stay. This can be anything from a standard multi-unit building to luxury stand-alone villas. As airline prices drop and the economy improves, corporate and personal travel continues to increase. The hotel industry generated just under $200 billion in revenue in 2016.

This startup idea is good for someone who enjoys the hospitality business. Those who run hotels have to be adept at catering to a number of different needs, so an owner will need to be flexible when it comes to how they respond to different travelers and consistent when it comes to delivering unparalleled customer service. From business travelers to young families, each guest will have their own priorities when it comes to where they stay.

Learn how to start a hotel business .

22. HOUSE-SITTING BUSINESS

House sitting is a service offered to customers who are out of town or otherwise away from the home. House sitters may look after pets, plants, or just the home itself. House sitters help the community in a number of ways. They can ward off criminals by simply being in the house, and they keep cats and dogs from having to be put into kennels.

This business is good for those who want to maintain people’s homes while they’re away. Ideally, house sitters should be animal lovers who know how to take care of a variety of different types of dogs and cats.

Learn how to start a house-sitting business .

23. KENNEL BUSINESS

Many dog owners, for a variety of reasons, don’t bring their dogs with them on trips. A kennel business gives dog owners a safe place to leave their dogs while they’re away. At a kennel, dogs have a safe place to rest, are fed and get exercise.

Anyone who loves dogs may be well-suited for owning a kennel business, as most of the work involves taking care of dogs. Owners often have to play with dogs, and they sometimes need to physically move stubborn pooches. Therefore, owners should be in decent physical condition.

Learn how to start a kennel business .

Boat owners need a place to keep their boats, both during the boating season and the off-season. While some boats can be kept on a trailer and launched, other vessels cannot -- and even boaters who have trailerable vessels often don’t want to have to launch and take out their boat every time they go out on the water.

A marina business offers boaters a place to keep their boats, docking or mooring them in the water during the boating season, and storing them on land for the rest of the year.

Learn how to start a marina .

25. PARTY BUS BUSINESS

One more of several popular travel business ideas is a party bus business. A party bus business will transport people for major events, so they don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting from place to place. While people on the bus are generally invited to consume alcohol (if they're of age), party buses don’t necessarily have to offer adult beverages as a part of their business model.

This business is excellent for someone who understands both the large and small aspects of major events. Clients want to be able to relax and feel as though they're taken care of, so they need someone who is confident in making decisions quickly and being able to think on the fly in the face of potential hiccups or even outright emergencies.

Learn how to start a party bus business .

26. PET-SITTING BUSINESS

Pet sitting businesses offer pet owners a variety of animal care services, including exercising their pets while they are at work. They also provide an affordable alternative to boarding pets at a kennel during vacations or business trips. Being able to remain in their own home environment can reduce separation anxiety for both pets and their owners.

This is a great business idea for animal lovers who enjoy walking and staying active. It’s ideal for people who prefer lower stress levels, since spending time with pets has been shown to reduce stress. Those who are compassionate and responsible, yet prefer to work alone and be their own bosses as well as make their own schedules thrive in this type of business.

Learn how to start a pet-sitting business .

27. SCOOTER RENTAL BUSINESS

A scooter rental business offers customers a fun and affordable option for short-term transportation. For most, scooters can be rented with hourly, half-day, and whole day rates.

If you have experience in retail sales or product rentals, knowledge of small engines, a strong work ethic, and a business mind, a scooter rental business could be your ticket to financial independence. Especially if you have a background in scooters and motorcycles—either as a rider, enthusiast, or from working in a motorbike retail business—your expertise could set you apart from the competition.

Learn how to start a scooter rental business .

28. SCUBA DIVING BUSINESS

Scuba diving affords an unparalleled experience with the underwater world. However, safe diving requires training, equipment, and often a guide. Scuba diving businesses provide divers with the training, equipment, and local knowledge they need to have a fun and safe time underwater.

While scuba diving businesses can generate sizable profits, most business owners don’t get into this type of work solely for the financial return on investment. Instead, they’re passionate scuba divers themselves and are drawn to the scuba lifestyle. They like the idea of making money doing a sport they love.

Learn how to start a scuba diving business .

29. SKI RESORT

Ski resorts are one of the main places people go for wintertime fun. Resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, equipment rentals and lessons. Many resorts also have concessions, a restaurant, a bar, and other amenities.

Someone with a diverse skillset and background in business may be well-suited for running a ski resort business. The multi-faceted nature of ski resorts requires knowledge of multiple aspects of running a business. For instance, running a ski resort business might include equipment maintenance, snowmaking decisions, concession management, and program creation.

Learn how to start a ski resort .

30. SKYDIVING BUSINESS

Customers of skydiving businesses receive access to the complete experience, either in tandem with an experienced jumper or solo. The entertainment package includes the airplane ride, all equipment, landing site—also known as the dropzone or DZ—and the leadership/coaching of a jumpmaster. Other products or services might also be offered through the business, from parachute training before the jump to photography or video production of the jump.

Most people who would consider starting such a business are experienced jumpers, but that’s not mandatory. You should, at a minimum, feel comfortable convincing partners or investors and officials of the wisdom of your plans and your skydiving business’ value to the community.

Learn how to start a skydiving business .

31. SNORKELING BUSINESS

A snorkeling business will typically sell or rent out various safety gear and snorkeling equipment to water-lovers of all ages. These travel businesses can also offer tours to their customers in addition to or instead of a physical store location.

Owners should ideally have an inherent love of the water, so they can introduce their passion for exploration to new generations of snorkelers. They should also enjoy working with people who may not know very much about how to use the equipment.

Learn how to start a snorkeling business .

32. SOUVENIR SHOP

As the owner of a souvenir shop, you’ll stock your retail store, cart or kiosk with an inventory of interest to tourists. Your offerings will reflect the demographics and socioeconomic strata of the market. For instance, if you’re at a vacation destination that draws young families, you might stock novelty trinkets, toys, t-shirts, candy, and gum. However, if you’ll attract more sophisticated travelers, you might sell pricier jewelry with a local slant -- ie, designed with stones or gems found in the region.

You can succeed if you know your market. You must be able to match the inventory with the needs of vacationers and at an affordable price point.

Learn how to start a souvenir shop .

33. SUMMER CAMP

Successful summer camp business owners respond to the needs of their customers and communities by developing curriculum and activities that focus on their specific interests, goals, and objectives. Traditional summer camps offer outdoor activities such as hiking, building campfires, and canoeing. Sleep-away camps offer food and lodging as well as trained supervision during physical and educational activities. Day camps do not include lodging and offer more specialized learning activities such as computer science, performing arts and music. Today, there are summer camp programs available for nearly every imaginable purpose, interest and need.

This business is a good choice for people who love teaching but prefer a beautiful natural setting to a formal classroom. High-energy individuals thrive on the combination of physical and mental activity this type of business provides. Creative people welcome the challenge of providing fun, interesting, and engaging songs, games, and educational activities for campers. Those who enjoy working with and enriching the lives of children and families experience a high level of job satisfaction within this industry.

Learn how to start a summer camp .

34. SURFING SCHOOL

Running a surf school and teaching surfing classes is a lifestyle with a dedication to the ocean water. It has the requirement to live on the coast of a country. The best places in America are the west coast of California and the islands of Hawaii. You may also find some decent surfing in other parts of the world such as Australia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and even in exotic places like Fiji and the beach areas of Sanya, China. No matter where you decide is best, you need to love the ocean water, work in a nice surfing spot, and want to teach people how to surf.

Surfers are people who enjoy the surfing lifestyle. Every day is a day at the beach when the waves are good. Surfers who want to teach others are even more special because they need to have patience when being an instructor for first-time learners. The best surfers enjoy daily surfing and catching good waves for them is a spiritual experience.

Learn how to start a surfing school .

35. TOUR COMPANY

Tour guide services are most often offered in cities large, world-famous cities and cities that have rich historical backgrounds. Guests can be taken on a tour by foot or by vehicle, depending upon the distance that will be covered during the tour.

The self-motivator with a thirst for knowledge who enjoys sharing what they’ve learned with others would do best owning a tour guide business.

Learn how to start a tour company .

Learn more about starting a business by visting the  U.S. Small Business Administration .

36. TRAVEL AGENCY

Most travel agencies earn revenue through commissions. Consumers often choose agencies because they help cut down on time needed to research various locations and book accommodations. A popular trend in the industry is online agencies, which operate mostly or exclusively online.

This business idea is perfect for individuals who are passionate about travel, love learning about and visiting new places, and are very detail-oriented. Travel agency owners have very flexible hours but usually only after they have an established book of clients.

Learn how to start a travel agency .

37. TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS

A travel photographer uses their camera to provide high-quality images to a variety of clients that may include websites, travel blogs, print magazines, television ads, and framed prints for sale. You will need to travel extensively to a variety of locations to deliver the landscapes, hotel rooms, and recreational shots that your clients are looking for. You'll work hard to develop a variety of clients who work with you to determine where your next shoot should be while your self-promotion and marketing will reach out to new clients.

A successful travel photographer will have extensive knowledge of how to use their camera to get the highest definition images containing dramatic landscapes. They will need to enjoy living on the road, hiking, and exploring distant locales to get the perfect shot. They should be sociable and able to toot their own horn in order to develop new clients and customers.

Learn how to start a travel photography business .

38. WALKING TOUR BUSINESS

Next on our list of travel business ideas is a walking tour business. Tourists are constantly in search of hidden gems and insider knowledge about their destination, which is what walking tour businesses provide. These travel businesses take tourists on guided explorations of an area, during which time tourists see both famous locations and lesser-known attractions while getting lots of local knowledge.

Most walking tours explore the area through a particular interest, and there are tours for all kinds of interests. For example, in New York City there are walking tour businesses that offer guided explorations of the city’s haunted locations, architecture and street art.

Learn how to start a walking tour business .

39. WATERPARK

Amusement parks are a popular vacation destination for families all over the world. Few things are more exhilarating than experiencing the rides, laughing and screaming as you make your way to the bottom. Couple that with water, and you have a family-friendly adventure for individuals of all ages.

Entrepreneurs with previous small business ownership or management would be best suited for this business venture. Innovators who enjoy a fast-paced atmosphere and are dedicated to reinvesting a portion of their profits can turn a small waterpark into a million-dollar enterprise in a matter of years.

Learn how to start a waterpark .

40. WINE TOUR BUSINESS

Wine tours educate people about grapes, fermentation, and flavor profiles. From varietals to harvesting techniques to the best way to taste the wine, tours are meant to be as informative as they are fun. These tours can help people appreciate all that goes into a single sip, and promote local businesses by exposing their product to more people.

This travel business is good for someone who already has a healthy interest in how vineyards work, and who enjoys teaching people in an entertaining way. Ideally, it should be far less about enjoying a good bottle of wine, and far more about being a good (and organized) educator.

Learn how to start a wine tour business .

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11 travel business ideas to get you started

Starting a business  in the travel industry can be a lucrative opportunity where you’ll provide travel services to individuals and groups looking to get away, celebrate a milestone or travel for work. As people increasingly prioritize experiences over material goods, demand is consistently on the rise  for travel-related services. The consistent demand makes a travel business an appealing recession-proof business idea  as well. 

11 travel business ideas to inspire you

Here are eleven travel business ideas  to help you choose the right niche.

Travel agency services

Adventure travel planning

Luxury travel planning

Cruise planning services

Business travel management

Destination wedding planning

Cultural and historical tours

Family vacation planning

Eco-friendly travel services

Solo travel planning

Group travel packages

01. Travel agency services

Provide comprehensive travel planning services, including itinerary creation, accommodation bookings and transportation arrangements. This type of service is usually on a commission basis, earning you a percentage of the total travel cost.

02. Adventure travel planning

Specialize in planning adventurous trips, such as hiking expeditions, wildlife safaris and extreme sports vacations. This niche can attract clients seeking unique and exciting travel experiences.

03. Luxury travel concierge

Offer premium travel concierge services for high-end clients, including luxury accommodation, private transportation and exclusive experiences. This niche can be lucrative but requires attention to detail and a network of luxury service providers.

04. Cruise planning services

Focus on planning cruise vacations, including cruise line selection, itinerary planning and shore excursions. Cruises are popular among various demographics, providing a broad client base.

05. Business travel management

Specialize in managing corporate travel needs, including booking flights, accommodations and coordinating business events. This type of service requires a strong understanding of business travel requirements. This can be a great scalable business idea , as you can work with multiple businesses around the world or big corporations with multiple locations.

06. Destination wedding planning

Provide destination wedding planning services, helping couples organize and execute their dream weddings in exotic locations. This niche combines travel planning with event coordination.

07. Cultural and historical tours

Design and organize tours focused on cultural and historical experiences, catering to travelers interested in learning about different cultures and exploring historical landmarks.

08. Family vacation planning

Tailor travel packages for families, including child-friendly accommodations, activities and transportation. This niche can be rewarding, catering to families looking for stress-free travel experiences.

09. Eco-friendly travel services

Differentiate your business by offering eco-friendly travel solutions, appealing to clients with a focus on sustainable and responsible travel practices.

10. Solo travel planning

Cater to solo travelers by providing customized itineraries, safety tips and group travel opportunities. Solo travel is a growing trend, and this niche can tap into a lucrative market segment.

11. Group travel packages

Create and organize group travel packages for various interests, such as culinary tours, wellness retreats or photography expeditions. This niche can attract like-minded individuals looking for shared travel experiences.

How to get started with your travel business idea

Apply your industry knowledge and experience.

Develop a deep understanding of various travel destinations, accommodations, transportation options and industry best practices, depending on the travel services you offer.

Choose your specialization or niche

Consider specializing in a specific travel niche or industry to provide tailored services. This can help you gain a professional reputation in a particular niche, attracting repeat business and new clients. Pro tip: Create a business plan  to map everything out.

Build a professional network

Establish connections with travel service providers, hotels and other industry professionals to enhance your offerings. Consider creating a website  to expand your online presence and market your travel services.

Choose a legal structure for your business

Decide on the legal structure of your business, such as a sole proprietorship , LLC  or corporation . Ensure you comply with any regulations or licensing requirements in the travel industry.

Determine your pricing strategies

Choose your pricing model, whether it's service fees, commission-based or a combination. Research local market rates and competitors to ensure your pricing is competitive and reflective of the value you provide.

Travel business examples (built on Wix) to inspire

Wanderlust adventures.

This travel agency offers a variety of adventure travel packages, including hiking, wildlife safaris and cultural experiences.

Luxe Life Ventures

A premium travel concierge service providing exclusive luxury travel experiences for discerning clients.

CruiseDreams Planning

Specializing in cruise vacation planning, CruiseDreams helps clients find the perfect cruise experience tailored to their preferences.

Travel business ideas FAQ

What types of travel services can i offer in my travel business.

The travel industry offers a wide range of services. You can consider offering general travel planning, adventure travel, luxury travel concierge, cruise planning, business travel management, destination wedding planning, cultural and historical tours, family vacation planning, eco-friendly travel services, solo travel planning and group travel packages.

How can I attract clients to my travel business idea?

What equipment and supplies do i need to get my travel business idea off the ground, how do i determine pricing for my travel services, how can i ensure the safety of my clients during their travels, how can i differentiate my travel business idea from competitors, how can i expand my travel business idea as it grows, other business ideas to consider.

Service business ideas

Businesses to start with little money

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How to Develop a Tourism Business

Last Updated: February 16, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Jessica Villegas . Jessica Villegas is a Certified Academic Life Coach and the Founder of Hi-Lite Coaching + Consulting in Winter Garden, Florida. Jessica has over 20 years of leadership experience, and she and her team serve teens and young adults through private coaching, group coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements. She uses workbook exercises, coaching planners, and regular check-ins to support young adults in achieving their academic and personal goals. Jessica received her Bachelor’s in Organizational Communications and Leadership Studies from the University of Central Florida and her Professional Coaching certification through Coach Training EDU, an ICF Accredited Institution, as an Academic Life Coach. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 23 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 354,877 times.

A tourism business is a great way to share your passion with others looking to experience a new location or culture, be it in a business or leisure capacity. To develop a tourism business, you need to first decide on your focus and create a business plan. Afterwards, you can move on to marketing and growing your business.

Selecting Your Businesses Focus

• Don't be afraid to send your customers to other businesses—it shows that you know the area well and are dedicated to ensuring they have the best time possible.
• Use your chosen geographic region to guide your focus. For example, if your location is secluded from the populace and dense with wineries, then guided winery tours, local bed and breakfasts, and airport transportation services are all viable business options.

• Imagine how your hotel would look and how it would stand out.
• Ask local business owners about their experience in the industry to get a feel for their day-to-day activities and how they succeed.

• Book a tour with a local agency and get a feel for what they offer. Take note of their pricing and routes.

• Compare the busiest restaurants to the slowest. Ask yourself what they are doing differently and how they could improve.

• For example, you might find that all hotels offer complimentary breakfast, so be sure to offer this. But if you find that none of them offer complimentary dinner, you can offer this to set yourself apart.
• Pinpoint a tourism sector that is not overly congested, and one that you can contribute something unique to.

• For example, if you want to focus on providing tours, decide on a location that you know well in terms of its history, food, and entertainment. If you think hospitality is your calling, decide on the type of foods and beverages that you want to provide to tourists.
• List the contacts that you have within each niche to get a better idea of which one you have the most connections in.

Setting the Foundation for Your Business

• If you provide tours in natural areas, you will likely need specific permits for each region or park.

• Determine if you must carry disability, unemployment, or other types of insurance for your employees.

• Include an outline of the products and/or services your business will be providing for tourists.
• Provide information about your target market and your competition.
• Describe how you plan on running your business and pricing your product or service

• Employee benefits

• Apply for a small business loan or grant if you find that you're low on funds. Visit Grants.gov ( https://www.grants.gov/ ) for a list of grants available around the world, or visit your bank and inquire about loans.

Marketing Your Tourism Business

• Run local promotions for your peers and their family and friends.

• Take out ad space in newspapers, magazines and lifestyle publications.
• Produce all applicable marketing materials, such as logos, regular newsletters, and business cards.

• Be sure to hire a specialist for search engine optimization (SEO) to maximize your site's online presence.

• Stay connected to local tourism industry councils and relevant media and trade organizations.

Growing Your Business

• Post ads on classified websites. Be sure to indicate the skills and experience you are looking for.
• Select employees that are familiar with your business. Remember that you always want to offer your customers a personalized, engaging experience.
• Plan your staff as far ahead as you possibly can. Be sure to plan extra carefully for busy times of the year.
• To make your business work, you really need to invest in your employees. It starts with the mission, vision, and values of the company and how those are permeated throughout your employees and how you deliver that and how you show up as that.

• Track competitor products, prices, and value regularly.

• Create gift cards, promo codes, and vouchers for your customers.

• Make it your primary goal to deliver on your promises and address every customer issue personally.
• Encourage your customers to leave their feedback on social media services.

• Always tell your customers about other sights in the area and tourism businesses close to yours that they can experience while in the area.
• Tell your customers about package deals, sales, and discounts.
• Send customers a follow-up email to thank them for choosing your business and make them feel welcome to return at any time!

• Plan different packages for different times of the year.
• Consider your audience when creating packages. Offer them things that make the experience more enjoyable and convenient.
• Look at packages from competing businesses and try to offer something that they don't.

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://smallbusinessbc.ca/article/strategies-start-grow-tourism-business/
• ↑ https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/hospitality-tourism-sport/tourism/starting-up/regulations/licences-permits-legislation
• ↑ https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/employing/taking-on-staff/find/assess
• ↑ https://www.rezdy.com/blog/3-costs-you-need-to-consider-when-pricing-your-tourism-product/
• ↑ https://www.capterra.com/tour-operator-software/
• ↑ https://www.iti.gov.nt.ca/sites/iti/files/ProductPackaging.pdf

About This Article

Developing a tourism business is a great way to make a profit while sharing your love of different cultures with new people. A tourism business is any business that caters to tourists, like hospitality, food, and local tours. You’ll need to choose a lucrative niche with little competition to make sure there's space in the market for your business. Choose a location you know well and an industry you have experience in. Unless you already have funding for your business, you’ll need to secure a small business loan, grant, or private investment. You'll also need to write a business plan to present to investors and help you plan your next steps. For more tips, including how to market your tourism business, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Start a Tourism Business from Scratch

Dreaming of starting your own tourism business? Imagine leading exciting tours, sharing beautiful destinations with others, and building a business around your love of travel. But how do you begin?

In this guide, we'll show you the essential steps to get your tourism business off the ground. We'll explore practical strategies and key considerations to help you turn your passion for travel into a successful business venture. Get ready to embark on an entrepreneurial journey and learn how to start your tourism business, one step at a time.

1. Start with Market Research

Conduct thorough market research to identify your target audience, competition, and potential niches in the tourism industry.

Market research helps tourism businesses identify their target markets. This involves understanding potential customers' demographics, interests, and preferences.

For example, research may reveal that a particular destination is popular among adventure-seeking millennials, while another attracts retirees looking for relaxation.

Here's how to research the market:

• Identify Target Audience : Determine the demographics, interests, and travel preferences of potential customers.
• Utilize Online Tools : Use Google Trends, social media insights, and travel forums for data on popular destinations and trends.
• Analyze Competitors : Research competitors’ offerings, strengths, weaknesses, and customer reviews.
• Attend Trade Shows : Gain insights into industry trends and network with professionals.
• Test Concepts : Run pilot tours and gather feedback before full-scale launch.

2. Create a Business Plan

Create your own business plan from your market research. What should it include? A comprehensive business plan outlining your business goals, strategies, financial projections, and marketing strategies.  

Create your own tour business plan with these steps:

• Set Clear Goals : Outline specific, measurable objectives for your business.
• Outline Strategies : Define key strategies for operations, customer service, and tour development.
• Financial Projections : Include startup costs, revenue forecasts, and break-even analysis.
• Marketing Plan : Identify your target audience and marketing channels.
• Market Analysis : Summarize findings about customer needs and competitors.
• Operational Details : Describe daily operations, staffing, and tour schedules.
• Risk Management : Identify potential risks and mitigation strategies.
• Sustainability Practices : If relevant, include eco-friendly operational plans.
• Funding Needs : Detail required capital and potential funding sources.
• Exit Strategy : Plan for future business transitions or sale.

3. Choose a Legal Structure

Choosing the right legal structure for a tourism business is crucial. Sole proprietorships and partnerships are simpler but have personal liability.

LLCs offer balance, while corporations provide extensive liability protection, but involve complexity.

Here's what you can do.

• Evaluate Liability and Complexity : Consider sole proprietorships and partnerships for simplicity with personal liability, LLCs for balanced liability protection and ease of operation, and corporations for extensive liability protection but with more complexity.
• Assess Ownership and Taxes : Choose a structure based on the number of owners, preferred tax treatment, and financial practices.
• Plan for Growth : Select a structure that aligns with your future growth plans and scalability.
• Understand Legal Implications : Recognize how each structure affects legal responsibilities and operational procedures.
• Consult Experts : Seek advice from legal and financial professionals to make an informed decision.

4. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

Obtain the necessary licenses and permits required for your tourism business, which may vary by location and the type of services you offer.

• Research Local Requirements : Investigate the specific licenses and permits required in your area and for the type of tourism services you plan to offer.
• Check with Government Agencies : Contact local, state, and federal agencies to understand all regulatory requirements.
• Prepare Documentation : Gather all necessary documents, such as identification, business plans, and insurance proof, required for the application process.
• Apply in a Timely Manner : Submit your application well before your planned start date to avoid any delays in launching your business.
• Stay Updated on Renewals : Keep track of expiration dates and renew licenses and permits as needed to ensure continuous compliance.

These steps help ensure that your tourism business meets all legal requirements and operates smoothly.

5. Select a Location

Choosing the right location for a tourism business is crucial. It can affect visibility, accessibility, and target customers.

Here are some points to consider:

• Consider Proximity to Attractions : Select a location close to popular tourist destinations or areas of interest to attract more customers.
• Evaluate Accessibility and Visibility : Ensure the location is easily accessible by public transport or has ample parking, and is visible and easy to find for tourists.
• Understand Local Regulations : Research local zoning laws and regulations to ensure your business can operate smoothly in the chosen area.

6. Acquire Resources

Secure the necessary resources, such as vehicles, equipment, technology, and skilled staff, to deliver your services effectively.

• Invest in Essential Equipment : Invest in the necessary vehicles, equipment, and technology tailored to the type of tours or services you offer.
• Hire Qualified Staff : Recruit skilled and experienced staff to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Utilize Efficient Technology : Adopt relevant technology solutions for bookings, operations, and customer management to streamline your business processes.

7. Develop Branding

Develop a strong brand identity, including a memorable name, logo, and tagline that resonates with your target audience. Strong brands not only attracts customers but also foster loyalty and trust.

• Craft a Unique Brand Identity : Select a name, logo, and tagline that embody your business's spirit and appeal to your target market. Tools like Canva for design, Shopify 's Business Name Generator for name ideas, and Looka for logo creation can be very helpful.
• Ensure Brand Consistency : Maintain a uniform brand appearance and tone across all platforms. Use tools like Adobe Spark for creating consistent marketing materials and Buffer for cohesive social media management.
• Leverage Brand in Marketing Strategies : Base your marketing efforts on your brand identity to strengthen your market presence. Tools like Hootsuite for social media management and Mailchimp for email marketing can integrate your branding into various marketing channels effectively.

Branding is the guiding compass that will shape your marketing strategies, customer interactions, and the overall reputation of the business in the competitive world of tourism.

8. Boost Online Presence

Create a professional website and establish a strong online presence through social media, online advertising, and search engine optimization (SEO).

• Create a User-Friendly Booking Website : Use platforms like WordPress or Squarespace to build a website that showcases your tours, optimized for mobile users.
• Use Social Media Wisely :
• Instagram & Pinterest : Post beautiful photos and videos of destinations.
• Facebook : Share updates and ads, and engage with customers.
• Twitter : Tweet quick updates and respond to customer inquiries.
• YouTube : Upload virtual tours and customer testimonials.
• Optimize for Local Search Engines (SEO) : Improve your website's ranking in local search results, like 'near-me' searches, by using relevant keywords and creating quality content.
• Try Online Advertising : Use Google Ads for targeted advertising to reach potential clients.
• Keep Content Fresh : Regularly update your website and social media with new and engaging content.

9. Expand Marketing Strategies

Implement marketing strategies to attract tourists, such as content marketing, partnerships with travel agencies, and targeted advertising.

• Engage in Content Marketing : Develop and share engaging content such as travel blogs, videos, and social media posts that highlight your tours and destinations.
• Collaborate with Travel Agencies and Resellers : Build partnerships with travel agencies and tour resellers to expand your market reach and visibility.
• Utilize Targeted Advertising : Employ targeted online advertising through platforms like Google Ads and social media to attract specific customer demographics.
• Partner with Local Hotels and Accommodations : Establish partnerships with local hotels and accommodations to create joint packages or promotions.
• Connect with Tour Affiliates : Work with affiliate marketers who can promote your tours to their audiences for a commission. TicketingHub gives this option to tour operators and even enables resellers to track their own bookings in a dashboard.

10. Build Tour Packages

Design and package your tour offerings, considering factors like itinerary, pricing, inclusions, and customer experience.

• Design Attractive Itineraries : Create engaging tour itineraries that cover key attractions and unique experiences.
• Set Competitive Pricing : Determine pricing that offers value to customers while remaining competitive in the market.
• Define Package Inclusions : Clearly specify what is included in each package, such as meals, transportation, and entry fees.
• Focus on Customer Experience : Ensure each tour package offers a memorable and satisfying customer experience.

11. Choose a Booking and Reservation System

Set up an efficient booking and reservation system to manage bookings, payments, and customer information.

Why do you need a booking system?

• Streamline Bookings and Payments : Automates the booking process, making it easier for customers to book tours and for businesses to manage payments.
• Organize Customer Information : Centralizes customer data, enabling better customer relationship management and personalized service.
• Improve Operational Efficiency : Reduces manual workload, minimizes errors, and enhances overall operational productivity.

12. Develop Customer Service Guidelines

Develop excellent customer service protocols to ensure tourists have a positive experience and receive timely support. Tourism businesses strive to provide personalized assistance to travelers.

This involves understanding the unique needs and preferences of each customer and tailoring services accordingly.

Here are suggestions for what these protocols could include:

• Personalized Interaction : Training staff to recognize and adapt to individual customer preferences, tailoring services like tour customization accordingly.
• Prompt Communication : Establish standards for swift and clear communication with customers across various channels (email, phone, social media).
• Comprehensive Training for Staff : Develop thorough training programs focusing on customer interaction, problem-solving, and knowledge about destinations and services offered.
• Effective Feedback System : Set up a process for collecting and responding to customer feedback, using insights to improve services and address concerns promptly.
• Emergency Response Protocol : Includes guidelines for handling emergency or unexpected situations, ensuring customer safety and satisfaction.

In wrapping up our guide to starting a tourism business, remember that your journey is filled with opportunities and challenges. Key steps like market research, choosing the right business structure, getting licenses , and picking the right location lay the foundation for your success.

Focus on creating appealing tour packages, setting up an easy booking system, and building a strong brand and online presence. Don't forget the importance of having a skilled team and providing excellent customer service to make each tourist's experience memorable.

Stay adaptable and responsive to market changes and customer needs. With determination and a well-planned approach, you're well on your way to launching a successful tourism business that delights travelers and stands out in the market. Good luck on your exciting new venture!

FAQ Section

1. how do i start my own tour company.

To start your own tour company, follow these steps:

• Research the Tourism Sector : Understand your market sector, focusing on local tourism and high-demand areas like guided winery tours or airport transportation services.
• Develop a Unique Selling Proposition : Identify what sets your tour company apart from others in the local tourism community.
• Secure Operating Capital : Gather the necessary funds, possibly from business partners or potential lenders, to cover business costs and operating capital.
• Handle the Legal Stuff : Obtain a tour operator license, register your business to trade legally, and ensure you have proper insurance, including liability insurance.
• Set Up a Business Bank Account : Separate your personal and business finances.
• Create a Strong Brand Story : Use free social networking sites, like Facebook page, to build your site's online presence and connect with your customer base.
• Plan Your Services : Whether it's guided tours, rental houses, or transportation services, ensure they align with local tourism needs and safety regulations.

2. How does a tourism company work?

Tourism companies operate within the hospitality industry, providing guided tours, package deals, and transportation. It generates revenue by offering these services directly to customers or through collaboration with local bed and breakfasts and other business owners.

Success relies on understanding customer needs, offering a personal touch, and efficiently managing operating and monthly costs.

3. How do you plan a tourism business?

Planning a tourism business involves:

• Market Analysis : Spend time understanding leisure capacity and preferences within your local tourism body and the broader market sector.
• Financial Planning : Calculate business costs, including potential rental fees, and plan for enough operating capital to cover your business until it grows to attract more business.
• Operational Planning : Consider viable business options, from guided winery tours to airport transportation services. Ensure compliance with all local safety regulations.
• Marketing Strategy : Utilize applicable online directories and review platforms to enhance your tourism company's online presence. Consider purchasing ad space or creating an executive summary to attract new customers.
• Network and Collaborate : Connect with local tourism communities, engage with other tour guides, and explore partnerships for package deals.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance : Register your business, understand the necessary legal stuff, and secure a tour operator license and proper insurance.

Do I need prior tourism industry experience to start my own tourism business?

While prior experience can be beneficial, it's not always necessary. A passion for travel and a willingness to learn and adapt are equally valuable. You can gain experience and knowledge through research, networking, and relevant courses.

How can I secure funding for my tourism business, especially if I'm just starting out?

Securing funding can be done through various means, including personal savings, loans, grants, or seeking investment from partners or investors. Creating a solid business plan and financial projections can help attract funding.

What marketing strategies are most effective for promoting a new tourism business?

Effective marketing strategies include building a professional online presence, leveraging social media, collaborating with travel influencers or agencies, and offering promotional deals or packages. Identifying your target audience and crafting compelling content are key to successful marketing.

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How To Market A Tourism Business

Published: December 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ingeberg Carpio

• Plan Your Trip
• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome to the world of tourism marketing! In an era where travel has become more accessible and the desire for unique experiences is on the rise, marketing your tourism business effectively is key to attracting and retaining customers. Whether you run a hotel, a tour company, a travel agency, or any other type of tourism business, implementing strategic marketing techniques can help you stand out from the competition and reach your target audience.

Marketing a tourism business requires a combination of creativity, data-driven strategies, and a deep understanding of your customers’ needs and desires. It’s not just about promoting your services; it’s about delivering an unforgettable experience and building a strong brand that resonates with travelers.

In this article, we’ll explore various marketing strategies and techniques that can help you market your tourism business effectively. From understanding your target audience to leveraging the power of digital marketing, we’ll cover a range of methods to boost your visibility, attract more customers, and ultimately grow your business.

Before diving into specific strategies, it’s important to note that marketing is an ongoing process that requires constant monitoring, analysis, and adaptation. What works today may not work tomorrow, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with industry trends, consumer behaviors, and emerging marketing channels.

Now, let’s embark on a journey to discover the key elements of successful tourism marketing and explore how you can apply them to your own business.

Defining Your Target Audience

One of the fundamental steps in marketing your tourism business is defining your target audience. Understanding who your ideal customers are will allow you to tailor your marketing efforts to reach and engage with them effectively. To define your target audience, consider the following factors:

• Demographics: Age, gender, location, income level, and other key demographic factors can help you identify the characteristics of your target audience.
• Psychographics: Dive deeper into your audience’s interests, lifestyles, values, and behaviors. This will enable you to create messages and experiences that resonate with them on a deeper level.
• Travel Preferences: Understand the type of travel experiences your audience is looking for. Are they adventure seekers, luxury travelers, or budget-conscious explorers?
• Reasons for Travel: Examine the motives behind their travel decisions. Are they seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or educational experiences?

Once you have defined your target audience, create buyer personas to embody the characteristics of your ideal customers. Give these personas names and specific traits to humanize them and better understand their needs and desires. This will serve as a reference point for your marketing strategies.

Keep in mind that your target audience may evolve over time, so it’s essential to regularly reassess and refine your target audience as you gather more data and insights.

By understanding your target audience, you can create tailored marketing campaigns that effectively communicate the value your tourism business brings to their travel experiences. This will help you connect with them on a deeper level and differentiate yourself from competitors who may have a more general approach.

Developing a Unique Value Proposition

In the competitive tourism industry, it’s crucial to have a unique value proposition (UVP) that sets your business apart from the rest. Your UVP is what differentiates you from your competitors and clearly communicates the unique benefits and value your tourism business provides to your target audience.

To develop a compelling UVP, follow these steps:

• Identify Your Competitive Advantage: Determine what sets your tourism business apart from others in the industry. Is it your location, personalized customer service, exclusive partnerships, or exceptional amenities? Focus on identifying your strengths and what makes you unique.
• Understand Your Customers’ Pain Points: Conduct market research and gather feedback from your customers to understand their pain points and challenges when it comes to travel. This will help you tailor your UVP to address their specific needs and concerns.
• Highlight the Benefits: Clearly articulate the benefits and value that your tourism business brings to your customers. Whether it’s the convenience, unforgettable experiences, or time-saving solutions, emphasize how your services enhance their travel experiences.
• Be Clear and Concise: Craft a clear and concise UVP that is easy to understand and remember. Avoid using industry jargon and focus on communicating your message in a way that resonates with your target audience.
• Consistency Across Channels: Ensure that your UVP is consistently communicated across all marketing channels, including your website, social media, and offline advertising. This will help reinforce your unique positioning in the minds of your target audience.

A strong and compelling UVP will not only attract potential customers but also foster loyalty and repeat business. It should leave a lasting impression and make your tourism business the obvious choice for travelers seeking a memorable and exceptional experience.

Building a Strong Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for marketing your tourism business. A robust online presence allows you to reach a broader audience, engage with potential customers, and establish credibility and trust. Here are some key strategies to build a strong online presence:

• Create an Engaging Website: Your website serves as the virtual storefront for your tourism business. Ensure it is visually appealing, user-friendly, and optimized for mobile devices. Include relevant and captivating content, attractive visuals, and clear calls-to-action to encourage visitors to take the desired actions.
• Optimize for Search Engines: Implement search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to improve your website’s visibility in search engine results. Research and incorporate relevant keywords into your website’s content, meta tags, and page titles. Ensure your website’s structure, navigation, and page load speed are optimized for a better user experience and search engine rankings.
• Utilize Content Marketing: Develop a content strategy that focuses on providing valuable and informative content to your target audience. Create blog posts, videos, and infographics that are relevant to travel and tourism. Share this content on your website, social media platforms, and other relevant online channels to showcase your expertise and engage with your audience.
• Build a Strong Social Media Presence: Leverage popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to connect with your target audience. Share engaging content, run promotions, and encourage user-generated content to increase brand visibility and build a loyal following. Interact with your audience by responding to comments and messages promptly.
• Utilize Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Partner with reputable online travel agencies to gain exposure and attract bookings from a wider audience. Optimize your listings on these platforms, showcase your unique offerings, and provide compelling descriptions and visuals to entice potential customers.

Remember, building a strong online presence takes time and effort. Regularly monitor your online channels, analyze user data, and adapt your strategies accordingly. Interact with your customers, gather feedback, and respond to reviews promptly to establish a positive online reputation.

By following these strategies, you can build a strong online presence that positions your tourism business as a trusted and reputable provider in the industry, attracting more customers and driving growth.

Utilizing Social Media Marketing

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate and connect with others, making it a powerful tool for marketing your tourism business. By leveraging social media platforms, you can reach a vast audience, engage with potential customers, and build brand awareness. Here’s how to effectively utilize social media marketing:

• Choose the Right Platforms: Identify the social media platforms that align with your target audience and business goals. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest are popular platforms for the tourism industry. Each platform has its own unique features and strengths, so choose wisely based on your target audience’s preferences.
• Create Compelling Content: Develop content that captures the attention and interest of your target audience. Utilize captivating visuals, videos, and informative posts to showcase your tourism business and the experiences you offer. Share user-generated content and encourage customers to share their travel experiences with branded hashtags.
• Engage with Your Audience: Social media is an interactive platform, so actively engage with your audience. Respond to comments, messages, and reviews in a timely and friendly manner. Encourage dialogue, ask questions, and run contests or polls to foster engagement.
• Run Targeted Ad Campaigns: Utilize the advertising features of social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Create targeted ad campaigns based on demographics, interests, and behaviors to reach potential customers who are more likely to be interested in your tourism services.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with social media influencers who have a significant following and align with your brand values. Collaborate on content creation, sponsored posts, or influencer takeovers to leverage their reach and influence, reaching a wider audience and building trust.
• Monitor and Analyze Results: Use social media analytics tools to track the performance of your social media marketing efforts. Monitor engagement, reach, click-through rates, and conversion metrics to assess the effectiveness of your strategies. Use these insights to refine your social media marketing campaigns.

Remember to maintain a consistent brand voice across all social media platforms and align your content with your overall marketing strategy. Be authentic, interactive, and value-driven in your social media efforts to build a loyal community of followers.

Social media marketing has the potential to significantly enhance your brand exposure, engage with your target audience, and drive traffic to your website. By utilizing these strategies, you can harness the power of social media to boost your tourism business and stay ahead of the competition.

Implementing Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Strategies

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a critical component of marketing your tourism business online. By implementing SEO strategies, you can improve your visibility in search engine results and attract targeted organic traffic. Here are some key SEO strategies to consider:

• Keyword Research: Conduct thorough keyword research to identify the search terms and phrases that your target audience uses to find tourism-related information. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your website’s content, meta tags, headings, and URLs.
• Optimize Website Structure and Navigation: Ensure that your website has a clear and logical structure that is easy for both users and search engines to navigate. Use descriptive and keyword-rich page titles, headings, and subheadings to guide users and improve search engine crawlability.
• Create High-Quality Content: Develop informative, engaging, and user-friendly content that aligns with the search intent of your target audience. Incorporate relevant keywords naturally and focus on providing value through guides, articles, videos, and blog posts that address their travel needs and interests.
• Optimize Website Load Speed: Page speed is a crucial factor in both user experience and search engine rankings. Optimize your website’s load speed by compressing images, minifying CSS and JavaScript files, and utilizing caching techniques.
• Build High-Quality Backlinks: Earn reputable and relevant backlinks from other websites in the travel and tourism industry. Focus on acquiring backlinks from authoritative sources through guest blogging, partnerships, and content collaborations.
• Local SEO: If you have a physical location, optimize your website for local search. Claim your Google My Business listing, include your contact information, address, and operating hours. Encourage customers to leave reviews, and ensure that your website and content are optimized for local keywords.
• Mobile Optimization: With the increasing use of mobile devices for travel planning, it’s crucial to have a mobile-friendly website. Optimize your website’s design, layout, and content for a seamless mobile experience.

Regularly monitor your website’s performance using analytics tools to track organic traffic, keyword rankings, and user behavior. Make data-driven decisions and continuously improve your SEO strategies to ensure optimal results.

Implementing effective SEO strategies will help your tourism business rank higher in search engine results, attract qualified leads, and ultimately drive more bookings and revenue.

Creating Engaging Content

In the highly competitive tourism industry, creating engaging content is crucial for capturing the attention and interest of your target audience. Engaging content not only helps you stand out from the competition but also builds brand awareness, establishes credibility, and fosters customer loyalty. Here are some strategies to create engaging content for your tourism business:

• Understand Your Audience: Take the time to understand your target audience’s preferences, interests, and pain points. Use this knowledge to create content that resonates with them and addresses their needs and desires.
• Tell Stories: Storytelling is a powerful tool to engage your audience. Share captivating and authentic stories about your destination, experiences, or satisfied customers. Paint a vivid picture and evoke emotions to create a deeper connection with your audience.
• Use Visuals: Humans are visual creatures, so incorporate high-quality photos, videos, and infographics into your content. Visuals not only enhance engagement but also make your content more shareable on social media platforms.
• Provide Value: Focus on providing valuable and informative content that educates, inspires, or entertains your audience. Offer travel tips, destination guides, packing lists, or insider insights to establish your authority and position your business as a valuable resource.
• Encourage User-Generated Content: Motivate your customers to share their travel experiences and adventures by using branded hashtags, running contests, or featuring user-generated content on your website and social media platforms. User-generated content not only increases engagement but also builds social proof and trust.
• Personalize the Experience: Tailor your content to the individual preferences of your audience. Use personalization techniques to deliver targeted messages and recommendations based on their previous interactions or interests.
• Be Interactive: Engage with your audience through comments, polls, quizzes, or interactive features. Encourage feedback, respond to comments, and create a sense of community and dialogue around your content.
• Experiment with Different Formats: Vary your content formats to keep your audience engaged. Consider creating podcasts, virtual tours, live videos, or interactive quizzes to offer unique and immersive experiences.

Regularly monitor the performance of your content using analytics tools. Analyze engagement metrics such as views, shares, and comments to understand what resonates with your audience. Use these insights to refine and optimize your content strategy over time.

By creating engaging content, you can captivate your audience, foster a deeper connection, and drive more engagement and actions, ultimately leading to increased conversions and business growth.

Collaborating with Influencers and Partners

Collaborating with influencers and partners is a powerful strategy to amplify your tourism business’s reach, build credibility, and attract a wider audience. By partnering with influential individuals or complementary businesses, you can leverage their existing audiences and tap into new customer segments. Here’s how to effectively collaborate with influencers and partners:

• Identify Relevant Influencers and Partners: Research and identify influencers in the travel and tourism industry who align with your brand values and target audience. Look for influencers who have a significant following and engagement on platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, or travel blogs. Also, consider partnering with complementary businesses, such as local tour operators or accommodations.
• Build Authentic Relationships: Approach influencers and partners with authenticity and a genuine interest in their work. Personalize your outreach and explain how working together can benefit both parties. Build a long-term relationship based on mutual trust and shared values.
• Create Compelling Collaborative Content: Collaborate with influencers and partners to create engaging and compelling content that showcases your tourism business. This can include sponsored posts, vlogs, reviews, or joint promotional campaigns. Ensure that the content aligns with your brand messaging and provides value to their audience.
• Encourage User-generated Content: Inspire influencers, partners, and customers to generate user-generated content that promotes your tourism business. Encourage them to use specific hashtags, tag your social media accounts, or participate in challenges or contests. This not only increases brand visibility but also creates social proof and credibility.
• Measure Impact and Results: Track the performance and impact of your collaborations. Monitor metrics such as engagement, reach, website traffic, and conversions. Analyze the success of each collaboration and make data-driven decisions on future partnerships.
• Offer Exclusive Promotions or Discounts: Provide influencer-specific or partner-specific promotions or discounts to incentivize their followers and customers to engage with your tourism business. This can help drive traffic, bookings, and conversions.
• Provide Exceptional Experiences: Ensure that the influencers and partners you collaborate with have a memorable and positive experience with your tourism business. Offer exceptional customer service, personalized experiences, or VIP treatments to create a lasting impression.

Remember, the key to successful collaborations is authenticity and relevance. Choose influencers and partners who genuinely align with your brand values and can effectively reach your target audience. Cultivate strong relationships, create engaging content, and measure the impact of your collaborations to maximize their effectiveness.

By collaborating with influencers and partners, you can extend your reach, build brand credibility, and attract new customers to your tourism business.

Utilizing Email Marketing

Email marketing is a highly effective tool for promoting your tourism business, nurturing customer relationships, and driving conversions. By utilizing email marketing strategies, you can engage with your audience directly, deliver personalized content, and keep your brand top-of-mind. Here’s how to effectively utilize email marketing:

• Build an Engaged Email List: Build a quality email list by capturing opt-in subscribers through your website, social media, or offline events. Offer incentives such as exclusive discounts, travel guides, or free resources to encourage sign-ups.
• Segment Your Email List: Segment your email list based on demographic information, interests, past interactions, or purchase history. This allows you to send targeted and personalized emails to specific segments, increasing the relevance and effectiveness of your campaigns.
• Create Compelling Email Content: Craft engaging email content that grabs attention and encourages action. Use enticing subject lines, personalized greetings, and captivating visuals to make your emails stand out in crowded inboxes.
• Provide Value in Every Email: Deliver valuable content to your subscribers in every email. This can include travel tips, destination guides, special offers, exclusive promotions, or informative blog posts. The goal is to provide content that your subscribers find useful and relevant to their travel interests.
• Automate Your Emails: Utilize email automation to send timely and relevant messages to your subscribers. Set up automated welcome emails for new subscribers, abandoned cart reminders, or personalized birthday offers. Automation saves time and ensures consistent communication with your audience.
• Test and Optimize: Experiment with different email elements such as subject lines, calls-to-action, or visual layouts. A/B test your emails to identify what resonates best with your audience and continuously refine your email marketing strategy based on the results.
• Personalize Your Emails: Use data to personalize your emails and make them feel more personalized to the individual recipient. Address subscribers by their name, recommend personalized travel experiences based on past bookings or preferences, and use dynamic content to tailor the message to their specific interests.
• Monitor and Analyze Metrics: Track key email marketing metrics such as open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates. Analyze the performance of your campaigns and use the insights to optimize future emails and improve engagement.
• Comply with Data Privacy Laws: Ensure that you follow data privacy regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the CAN-SPAM Act. Obtain proper consent from your subscribers, provide an easy way to unsubscribe, and handle personal data securely.

Email marketing allows you to establish a direct line of communication with your audience and nurture relationships over time. By providing valuable content and personalized offers, you can increase engagement, drive bookings, and foster loyalty among your subscribers.

Remember to monitor the performance of your email campaigns and adapt your strategies based on the feedback and data you receive. With effective email marketing, you can harness the power of personalized communication and drive the success of your tourism business.

Implementing Online Advertising Campaigns

Online advertising campaigns are a powerful way to promote your tourism business, increase brand visibility, and attract potential customers. With the wide range of digital advertising platforms available today, you can effectively target your desired audience and drive traffic to your website. Here’s how to implement successful online advertising campaigns:

• Set Clear Advertising Goals: Determine your advertising goals and objectives. Whether it’s increasing website traffic, generating leads, driving bookings, or raising brand awareness, having clear goals will help you tailor your advertising strategies and measure the success of your campaigns.
• Identify Your Target Audience: Define your target audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. This will allow you to create targeted and relevant advertisements that resonate with your potential customers.
• Choose the Right Advertising Platforms: Consider the different online advertising platforms available, such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Instagram Ads, or display advertising networks. Select platforms that align with your target audience’s preferences and have the potential to reach your desired customer base.
• Create Compelling Advertisements: Craft attention-grabbing and persuasive ad copy, headlines, and visuals. Highlight unique selling points, promotions, or special offers to entice potential customers. Use compelling calls-to-action to drive them to take the desired action.
• Use Effective Landing Pages: Ensure that the landing pages you direct your ads to are relevant, user-friendly, and optimized for conversions. Align the messaging and visuals of your ads with the landing page content to provide a consistent user experience.
• Monitor and Optimize: Regularly monitor the performance of your online advertising campaigns. Track key metrics such as click-through rates, conversion rates, and return on ad spend (ROAS). Test different ad variations, keywords, targeting options, and bidding strategies to optimize and improve the performance of your campaigns.
• Retarget Your Audience: Implement retargeting strategies to re-engage users who have previously visited your website or shown interest in your tourism services. Show personalized ads to these individuals to remind and persuade them to convert.
• Utilize Remarketing Emails: Integrate your online advertising campaigns with remarketing emails. If users have abandoned their booking process or shown interest in specific offers, utilize email marketing to retarget them and remind them of the benefits of booking with your tourism business.
• Allocate Budget Wisely: Evaluate the performance of your online advertising campaigns and allocate budget based on the return on investment (ROI) of each platform or campaign. Continuously optimize your budget allocation to maximize the effectiveness of your advertising spend.

Online advertising campaigns provide a targeted and measurable way to reach potential customers and grow your tourism business. By implementing these strategies and continuously optimizing your campaigns, you can increase brand visibility, drive website traffic, and generate bookings or leads in a cost-effective manner.

Engaging in Local Marketing Efforts

Local marketing is a crucial aspect of promoting your tourism business, especially if you cater to a specific geographic area or destination. Engaging in local marketing efforts allows you to connect with the local community, attract nearby visitors, and build a strong presence in your target location. Here are some strategies to effectively engage in local marketing:

• Build Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, or tour operators, to cross-promote each other’s services. Offer special packages or discounts when customers book multiple services from complementary businesses.
• Showcase Local Expertise: Position your tourism business as a local expert by sharing insights and recommendations about the area. Create informative blog posts, videos, or social media content that highlights local attractions, hidden gems, or unique experiences.
• Participate in Local Events: Engage with the local community by participating in events, festivals, or trade shows related to tourism. Set up a booth, offer special promotions, or sponsor a local event to increase brand visibility and connect with potential customers.
• Create Local Content: Develop content that specifically targets the local audience. Provide city guides, itineraries, or recommendations tailored to visitors exploring the local area. This demonstrates your understanding of the destination and helps position your business as a trusted resource.
• Optimize for Local SEO: Implement local search engine optimization strategies to improve your visibility in local search results. Include local keywords in your website’s content, meta tags, and headings. Claim and optimize your business profiles on local directories and review platforms.
• Get Involved in Community Initiatives: Support local nonprofit organizations, charities, or environmental initiatives. Sponsor community events, volunteer, or organize clean-up campaigns to demonstrate your commitment to the local community.
• Collect and Display Local Reviews: Encourage your customers to leave reviews and testimonials about their experiences with your tourism business. Display these reviews on your website, social media platforms, and review sites to build trust and credibility among potential customers.
• Offer Special Local Promotions: Create exclusive promotions or packages for residents of the local area. This can incentivize them to experience their own city as a tourist and increase word-of-mouth recommendations within the local community.
• Utilize Local Influencers: Collaborate with local influencers or bloggers who have a strong presence in the area. Partner with them for sponsored content or reviews to leverage their local influence and reach a wider local audience.

Engaging in local marketing efforts allows you to tap into the local market, generate repeat business, and build a strong reputation within the community. By showcasing your local expertise, participating in local events, and fostering partnerships, you can position your tourism business as the go-to choice for both visitors and locals alike.

Leveraging Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews and testimonials are a powerful marketing tool for your tourism business. They provide social proof, build trust, and influence purchasing decisions. Leveraging customer reviews and testimonials can significantly impact your reputation and attract more potential customers. Here’s how to effectively utilize them:

• Encourage Reviews: Request feedback from your customers after their experience with your tourism business. Set up automated email campaigns or provide incentives for customers to leave reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, or social media.
• Showcase Reviews on Your Website: Feature customer reviews and testimonials on your website’s homepage, dedicated reviews page, or booking confirmation emails. Display a diverse range of reviews to highlight different aspects of your services and the overall positive experiences of your customers.
• Highlight Positive Reviews on Social Media: Share positive reviews and testimonials on your social media platforms. Create visually appealing graphics or quote cards that highlight the customer’s feedback. Tag and thank the customer for their kind words, increasing engagement and encouraging others to leave reviews.
• Respond to Reviews: Engage with your customers by responding to their reviews, both positive and negative. Address concerns, express gratitude for positive feedback, and highlight actions you have taken based on feedback. This shows your commitment to customer satisfaction and builds trust with potential customers.
• Use Video Testimonials: Request satisfied customers to provide video testimonials about their experiences with your tourism business. Feature these videos on your website and social media platforms to add a personal touch and increase credibility.
• Include Testimonials in Marketing Materials: Incorporate customer testimonials in your brochures, flyers, online advertisements, and email marketing campaigns. This helps potential customers see real-life experiences of others and reinforces the value and quality of your services.
• Share Case Studies: Create case studies that highlight specific customer success stories or unique experiences they had with your tourism business. Showcase the challenges they faced, how your services solved those challenges, and the positive outcomes they achieved.
• Monitor and Respond to Online Reviews: Regularly monitor and respond to reviews on third-party platforms. Address any negative feedback promptly and professionally, showing your dedication to resolving issues and improving the customer experience.
• Offer Incentives for Reviews: Consider offering incentives such as discounts, loyalty rewards, or exclusive content for customers who leave reviews. This encourages more customers to share their experiences and have a positive impact on your brand’s online reputation.

Remember, customer reviews and testimonials are influential in shaping the perception of your tourism business. By showcasing the positive experiences of your customers, addressing feedback, and continuously seeking reviews, you can build trust and confidence among potential customers, ultimately driving more bookings and revenue.

Offering Special Promotions and Packages

Offering special promotions and packages is an effective strategy to attract new customers, drive bookings, and increase revenue for your tourism business. By providing unique incentives, discounts, or bundled experiences, you can entice potential customers and differentiate yourself from competitors. Here’s how to effectively offer special promotions and packages:

• Create Limited-Time Offers: Generate a sense of urgency by offering promotions and packages for a limited time. This encourages customers to take action and book their travel experiences sooner rather than later.
• Bundled Packages: Combine multiple services or experiences into attractively priced bundles. For example, create a package that includes accommodation, tours, and meals, providing customers with a comprehensive and convenient travel solution.
• Seasonal Discounts: Offer discounts or promotions that are tied to specific seasons or holidays. This can attract travelers looking for special deals during peak or off-peak seasons, encouraging them to choose your tourism business over others.
• Early Booking Incentives: Encourage customers to book in advance by offering early booking incentives, such as reduced rates, upgrades, or additional amenities. This rewards customers for their commitment and helps you secure bookings ahead of time.
• Last-Minute Deals: Fill any remaining availability by offering last-minute deals. This appeals to spontaneous travelers or those with flexible travel plans, and can help maximize revenue during periods of low occupancy.
• Group Discounts: Offer special rates or discounts for group bookings. This incentivizes families, friends, or organizations to choose your tourism business for their group travel needs, increasing the number of people and revenue per booking.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program to reward repeat customers. Offer exclusive discounts, complimentary upgrades, or VIP experiences to incentivize their continued loyalty and encourage repeat bookings.
• Collaborate with Partners: Partner with other businesses in the tourism industry to create joint promotions or packages. This cross-promotion can expand your reach, attract new customers, and provide added value by combining complementary services.
• Social Media Exclusive Offers: Reward your social media followers with exclusive promotions or offers. This not only encourages engagement and loyalty but also creates a sense of exclusivity among your online community.
• Upselling and Add-Ons: Offer additional services or experiences as upsells or add-ons to complement customers’ main bookings. This can range from spa treatments or airport transfers to special excursions or customized amenities.

When offering special promotions and packages, ensure that you clearly communicate the value and benefits to potential customers. Utilize compelling visuals, persuasive copy, and effective calls-to-action to capture their attention and encourage immediate bookings. Regularly evaluate the performance of your promotions and packages, making adjustments and optimizations based on customer feedback and market trends.

By offering special promotions and packages, you can attract new customers, drive bookings, maximize revenue, and create memorable experiences that keep customers coming back.

Networking and Participating in Tourism Events

Networking and participating in tourism events are valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals, showcase your tourism business, and build collaborative relationships. By actively participating in relevant events, you can enhance your visibility, gain industry insights, and establish yourself as a key player in the tourism sector. Here’s how to effectively network and participate in tourism events:

• Research and Identify Relevant Events: Research and identify industry-specific events, conferences, trade shows, or exhibitions that align with your target audience and business goals. Look for events that attract tourism professionals, travel enthusiasts, or potential customers.
• Create an Engaging Booth or Stand: If the event allows for booth or stand setup, create an eye-catching and visually appealing display that showcases your tourism business. Use high-quality signage, visuals, and interactive elements to attract attendees and create a memorable experience.
• Prepare Engaging Promotional Materials: Develop informative brochures, business cards, flyers, or promotional items that effectively communicate your unique selling points and contact information. Ensure that your materials are visually appealing, concise, and aligned with your brand identity.
• Attend Seminars and Workshops: Take advantage of the educational opportunities provided by the event. Attend seminars, workshops, or panel discussions related to the tourism industry to gain valuable insights, stay updated on industry trends, and enhance your knowledge.
• Engage in Networking: Actively network with other attendees, industry professionals, and potential partners. Approach conversations with a genuine interest in learning about others’ businesses and objectives. Exchange contact information and follow up with personalized messages after the event.
• Participate as a Speaker or Panelist: Enhance your visibility and establish yourself as an industry expert by participating as a speaker or panelist at relevant sessions or discussions. Share your knowledge, insights, and success stories to position yourself as a thought leader in the tourism field.
• Sponsor or Host an Event: Consider sponsoring or hosting a segment of the event to further increase your brand’s exposure. This can include sponsoring a session, hosting a networking event, or providing branded merchandise. Collaborate with event organizers to explore partnership opportunities.
• Engage on Social Media: Utilize event hashtags, share real-time updates, and engage with event attendees on social media platforms. This allows you to extend your reach and connect with a wider audience, even beyond the physical event itself.
• Follow Up and Maintain Relationships: After the event, follow up with the contacts you made to nurture those relationships. Send personalized emails, connect on professional social media platforms, and explore potential collaboration opportunities.
• Evaluate the ROI: Assess the return on investment (ROI) of your participation in the event. Measure the number of connections made, leads generated, partnerships formed, and collaborations secured. Analyze the impact of your participation and adjust your strategy for future events.

Networking and participating in tourism events provide valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals, secure partnerships, and gain exposure for your tourism business. By actively engaging in these events, you can propel your business forward and stay ahead in the competitive tourism landscape.

Measuring and Analyzing Marketing Efforts

Measuring and analyzing marketing efforts is essential for understanding the effectiveness of your strategies, optimizing your campaigns, and making data-driven decisions. By analyzing key metrics and gathering valuable insights, you can refine your marketing approach and maximize your return on investment (ROI). Here’s how to effectively measure and analyze your marketing efforts:

• Define Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Establish clear and specific KPIs that align with your marketing goals. These can include website traffic, conversion rates, email open rates, social media engagement, or booking inquiries. Clearly defining your KPIs ensures focus and provides a benchmark for measuring success.
• Utilize Analytics Tools: Implement robust analytics tools such as Google Analytics, social media analytics, or email marketing platforms. These tools provide valuable data on user behavior, demographics, referral sources, and engagement metrics to track the performance of your marketing efforts.
• Analyze Website Metrics: Dive into website analytics to evaluate the effectiveness of your online marketing campaigns. Monitor metrics such as bounce rate, time on site, page views, and conversion rates. Identify areas for improvement and optimize your website based on user behavior and conversion data.
• Track Conversion Rates: Measure conversion rates for key actions, such as booking inquiries, newsletter sign-ups, or brochure downloads. Analyze the conversion funnel to identify areas where visitors may be dropping off and optimize those steps to increase conversion rates.
• Evaluate Social Media Engagement: Monitor social media analytics to assess the reach, engagement, and interaction with your content. Measure metrics such as likes, comments, shares, and click-through rates. Identify the types of content or campaigns that resonate most with your audience and adjust your strategy accordingly.
• Analyze Email Campaign Metrics: Evaluate the performance of your email marketing campaigns by analyzing metrics such as open rates, click-through rates, conversions, and unsubscribe rates. Test different subject lines, content formats, and CTAs to optimize your email campaigns and improve engagement.
• Assess ROI: Calculate the return on investment for your marketing campaigns by comparing the costs incurred to the revenue generated. This enables you to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of your strategies and allocate resources to the most profitable channels.
• Monitor Online Reviews and Feedback: Regularly monitor and analyze online reviews, feedback, and customer surveys. This provides qualitative insights into the perception of your brand, customer satisfaction levels, and areas for improvement. Use this information to enhance the customer experience and address any issues raised.
• Conduct A/B Testing: Test different variables (such as headlines, visuals, calls-to-action, or landing page layouts) through A/B testing to understand what resonates best with your audience. Analyze the results and implement the winning variations to optimize your marketing campaigns further.
• Stay Updated and Adapt: Continuously stay informed about industry trends, emerging platforms, and changes in consumer behavior. Adapt your marketing strategies accordingly, integrating new tactics to reach and engage with your target audience effectively.

By consistently measuring and analyzing your marketing efforts, you can identify strengths, address weaknesses, and refine your strategies to drive better results. The insights gained from data analysis will guide your decision-making process and empower you to allocate resources effectively, ensuring the long-term success of your marketing campaigns.

In the dynamic and highly competitive world of tourism, effective marketing strategies are essential for attracting and retaining customers. By implementing a comprehensive and targeted approach, you can set your tourism business apart from the competition and reach your desired audience.

Defining your target audience and developing a unique value proposition are fundamental steps in crafting a successful marketing strategy. Understanding your audience’s demographics, psychographics, and travel preferences allows you to tailor your messaging and experiences to their specific needs and desires. Building a strong online presence through SEO optimization, engaging content, and social media marketing helps increase your visibility and connect with potential customers.

Collaborating with influencers, partners, and local businesses can unlock new opportunities and broaden your reach in the tourism industry. By leveraging customer reviews and testimonials, you can build trust, establish credibility, and influence purchasing decisions.

Furthermore, offering special promotions and packages creates incentives for customers to choose your tourism business over competitors, while participating in tourism events and networking facilitates industry connections and enhances your reputation.

To ensure the effectiveness of your marketing efforts, it is crucial to consistently measure and analyze your performance. Tracking relevant metrics, such as website traffic, conversion rates, social media engagement, and ROI, provides valuable insights to optimize your strategies and foster continuous improvement.

As the tourism industry evolves, staying up-to-date with emerging trends and adapting your marketing strategies is essential. By being innovative, customer-centric, and adaptable, you can position your tourism business for long-term success.

In conclusion, by implementing the strategies and techniques outlined in this article, you can effectively market your tourism business, attract more customers, and thrive in the ever-evolving travel industry.

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12 Travel Business Ideas

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If there is one thing most people can agree on, it’s that traveling is one of life’s great pleasures. Exploring new cultures, visiting the world’s great wonders, spending days following your instincts and trying exotic foods — there’s a lot to love about discovering new places.

If you want to take your love of travel to the next level and start a business to serve your like-minded wanderlusters, you should consider these fun and profitable travel business ideas.

What is a travel business?

There are two overarching types of travel businesses worth considering. First, you could think about starting a business that provides services or goods for travelers — running a hotel, for example. The second option is to start a business that you can run from anywhere in the world while you yourself travel. In many cases, this type of business revolves around travel, such as working as a travel writer and writing stories about your latest adventures.

What makes a travel business idea a good one?

A good travel business should combine two things: reliability and excitement. When you run a travel business, your clients need to be able to trust you. They need to feel confident that the tour group you run is legitimate and will show them the best sites. Or that the blog you run about the best inns on the east coast actually gives honest reviews.

At the same time, you need to offer services or create content that excites your customers. Introduce them to sights off the beaten path. Help them unwind and relax while on their vacation. Find a way to create trust amongst your customer base while offering them an experience they can’t find anywhere else.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

12 travel business ideas for 2021

If you’re unsure of what type of travel business ideas could work for you, keep reading for some popular options. These ideas range widely and you should put your own creative spin on them. At the end of the day, think back to your passion for traveling. What services or products have made the most difference to you on past trips? What did you feel was missing? Can you find a way to make a living on the road while capitalizing on your skillset? Chances are, you have more ideas at the ready than you think.

1. Modernized bed and breakfast

B&Bs have been popular for decades — they outlive trends and are clearly here to stay. But why not step things up a notch and find a way to modernize the bed and breakfast experience a little bit? Make sure your rooms are outfitted with nice televisions so guests can enjoy a movie night in their cozy room. Offer unique culinary experiences. Decorate in a way that feels timeless but fresh at the same time. A bed and breakfast is a smaller operation than a hotel and is a great way to break into the hospitality business. If you need a little help funding your bed and breakfast, consider one of these financing options.

2. Off-the-beaten-path tour guide

Tour groups are a dime a dozen. But if you can offer a unique tour, you’ll be able to stand out from the competition. What do you love about your city? Maybe you can find the best coffee, chocolate, or salty treats at your local shops and restaurants. Organize a foodie tour of your town that highlights how your local delicacies are made. Of course, you’ll have to include tastes of all the local treats.

Or consider organizing a tour of some lesser-known sites. Surely there is a natural activity or historical site that tourists haven’t caught onto yet. If you can give your travelers a taste of local life or make them feel like they’ve uncovered something special, then your tour guide business will thrive. Maybe some locals will even join in on the fun.

3. Glamping

Here’s a fun fact for you: By 2025, experts estimate the glamping market in the United States alone is projected to reach a revenue of around $1 billion. It sounds like the great outdoors is getting a little fancier. What exactly is glamping? Glamorous camping.

Glamping combines nature with the comforts of home, and usually Champagne. That’s right, after a long day of hiking or river rafting, campers can return to decked-out campsites that offer spa treatments, wine and gourmet meals. The perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. If you can create a campsite that melds the best parts of nature with resort living, you’ll be in business.

4. Remote travel agent

Long gone are the days of travel agent offices. The truth is, thanks to the internet it’s easier than ever to plan a trip. Anyone with a computer can choose between hundreds of flights, hotels and restaurant reservations. The ease of access is great, but the time it takes to weed through those options might not be available to everyone. This is where a remote travel agent comes in.

You’ll work out of your own home which saves the customer costs on overhead expenses. For a more affordable price, remote travel agents can help busy travelers plan their next vacation from anywhere in the world. Help them book the best hotels, unique activities and provide them with all of their important travel bookings and documentation.

5. Travel consultant

Even though their job titles sound similar, a travel consultant is different than a travel agent. A travel consultant usually specializes in solving complex travel issues. For example, they may specialize in helping adoptive parents travel abroad to make the task of adopting a child from a foreign country run smoothly. Or they might assist businesses with complex assignments like learning how to cater to new cultures during business deals. Travel consultants generally focus less on tourism and more on helping iron out logistical issues.

6. Travel photographer

As a travel photographer, you’ll have plenty of options for making money off your passions for travel and photography. You can sell photos taken while traveling to newspapers, magazines and websites. Or you can sell your favorite shots in your own online shop. You could license your gorgeous photos of Paris or Peru to companies that create goods like calendars or art prints. Perhaps you want to help create stock photography for big companies like Getty Images. Point being, we live in a very visual world and there are plenty of options for starting a travel photography business.

7. Create a haunted attraction

Want a surefire way to make sure your hotel or guided tour drum up enough business? The solution is easy: Make it haunted. This may seem like a business better suited for Halloween time, but people are ready to get their scare on year-round. These haunted attractions do particularly well in historic locations like towns on the east coast where there are plenty of ghost stories to go around. Do some research and then let your imagination take care of the rest. You might want to load up on business insurance just in case your haunted attraction is too scary.

8. Teach cultural classes

It’s time to share your unique culture with the world. Offer fun classes for tourists that will make them feel like locals, whether that be a Creole cooking class or an art class that captures a local style of painting. Help tourists pick up a skill that they won’t learn anywhere else, like how to make an authentic cup of Turkish coffee or bake a truly Parisian croissant.

9. House or pet sitting

Sometimes a travel business does its best work when helping travelers look after what they left behind. House or pet sitting can be a great side hustle to take on if you’re looking for a little extra cash. Of course, you could always start a larger business like a kennel that takes care of beloved pets while their owners are jet-setting around the world. Some people are even willing to pay for plant hotels that keep their plants in tiptop shape until they return from vacation. Consider a travel business that will give your customers peace of mind while they are far from home.

10. Travel blogger

You’ve traveled the world and, boy, do you have some good stories to tell. So why don’t you then? By starting a travel blog, you can make money by sharing your experiences. You can offer up travel advice, share photos from your journey and review restaurants and hotels. Once your blog picks up some steam (aka gets a decent amount of pageviews and monthly visitors) you’ll be able to make money from ads hosted on your website, sign up for affiliate programs, or create sponsored content for brands. If this sounds like your ideal business, this guide can help you start a travel blog.

11. Ecotourism

Sustainability is all the rage right now and for good reason. It makes sense that those who value exploring the world want to keep it safe. Which is why ecotourism (also known as green tourism) is such a potentially profitable idea. Essentially, ecotourism allows travelers to learn about local culture and wildlife in a low-impact way.

Generally, these types of tours or services (like hotels) try to minimize the impact of traveling while giving tourists the education and tools to help positively impact the environment and community they visit. Many travelers are even willing to spend more on hotels if they are environmentally friendly. If you can find a way to show tourists a good time while helping them make a positive impact, you’re sure to have a popular business on your hands in no time.

Start Your Dream Business

12. Home rentals

Do you have a gorgeous pool house just waiting to be turned into an oasis for weary travelers? Consider starting a home rental business. You can list any rooms in your house that are available to rent out (or even your entire house if you’re headed out of town yourself) on home rental websites like Airbnb or HomeAway. If you live in a popular area where hotels are particularly pricey, then you may be able to fetch a pretty penny by allowing customers to rent rooms in your home.

The best part is, you get to set your price. You only have to rent to people who can meet your price and who you think would be a good tenant (Hint: They need as many good reviews as you do). This can be an ideal business for bringing in extra money to help fund your next vacation. Just make sure that your town, apartment complex, or homeowners association allows you to rent out your property and that you’re following proper regulations.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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21 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas

Back to Business Ideas Categories

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on July 21, 2022 Updated on October 2, 2023

With the pandemic winding down, countless Americans are getting back to traveling! That means now is a great time to establish a travel-related business and build a steady income. The tourism industry is massive and diverse, offering many opportunities for sharp entrepreneurs. 

You could start a travel agency, a campground, a hotel, or a concierge service . Explore many more excellent tourism business ideas in our list below.

1. Travel Agency

If you love to travel and are always planning your next trip, starting a travel agency might be the perfect career choice. It’s a great way to share your love and knowledge of travel, and it can be very lucrative. US travel agencies are rebounding strongly from the pandemic and expect a 38% increase in revenue in 2022. Looking ahead, the market is expected to grow steadily through 2026.  

If you have the resources, starting a travel agency business can be a breeze. But first, you need to identify your target market. Will you focus on domestic or international travel? A lot of Americans go on short trips for vacation or business purposes, providing an opportunity for travel agencies to earn money. Arranging tours and outings for international visitors is also possible now that the US has eased travel requirements. Once you find your niche and draw up a business plan, you should work on establishing your brand and promoting it to find clients.

2. Nightclub

Do you enjoy late nights on the town? If so, starting a club might be right up your alley. Nightclubs and music venues are part of the US bars and nightlife industry, which suffered a sharp decline during the pandemic. But now that people are hitting the town again the market is set to grow 14% and exceed $28 billion in revenue in 2022. 

Before you open your club, it’s important to know that the industry is heavily regulated, especially when it comes to alcohol consumption. You’ll need to meet both state and local regulations and licensing requirements so it’s best to inquire about the details from your local authorities first. Next, it’s a good idea to research the market and find out what other clubs in your area are offering. You’ll have to innovate and come up with a unique selling proposition and a creative marketing plan for your club to attract customers. With these in place, your club can be very profitable.

3. Photography

Are you an amateur photographer who loves snapping great images? Photography in the US is an $11 billion industry expected to see steady growth in the coming years, so now would be a great time to stretch your entrepreneurial wings and give it a shot. You could focus on travel photography, if that’s your passion, and give the world beautiful photos while also seeing the world. 

Assuming you already have a professional-level camera, you’ll just need some great editing software and to build a website showing off your portfolio and listing your prices and services. With a bit of talent and determination, you could be snapping your way to success in no time!

If you’ve stayed in an Airbnb, you probably know how sweet it is to have a home away from home! This is why the homestay segment of the hotel and lodgings market has seen explosive growth in recent years, with Airbnb leading the way. Renting out your home as an Airbnb is an easy and flexible way to earn income, whether you’re looking for a little extra money or to build a serious business. 

The first step is to make sure your home or apartment can be rented out for short-term stays. In many areas today, there are laws either banning Airbnb rentals or limiting them to a certain share of local units. If your home clears that hurdle and is in an area with some tourist appeal, you’re already halfway there. If your apartment fails to meet one of these requirements, you might want to look into purchasing a home or apartment in an appealing destination, which you could then develop into a successful Airbnb. 

Whichever approach you choose, the most important step is delivering fantastic service to your guests. If you can achieve Superhost status, you’ll be well on your way to Airbnb success.

5. Translation Business

Demand for translation services is expected to grow as more companies seek to capture or increase their share of the global market. In the US, more than 10,000 new jobs for interpreters and translators are expected each year through 2030. Translation businesses help translate documents, localize travel and city guide websites, and interpret speech, including sign language. If you’re thinking of starting a translation business, you’re not alone. But if you have the skills and the right talents and tools, you could edge out the competition. 

In this internet age, finding translators who can work remotely across the globe has become easier. Promoting diversity among your staff could also be good for your business because you’ll be able to offer translation services for more languages. Do the paperwork to register your business, keep yourself updated with the latest technologies, promote your services, and you should be able to gain traction as soon as you start operating.

6. Bed and Breakfast

Many Americans still prefer to stay in a traditional B&B for the unique hospitality, homemade food, and fascinating local insights. The US bed and breakfast market was worth $1.7 billion in 2021 and expected to rebound strongly from the pandemic after the lifting of travel restrictions. If you’ve been thinking of opening your own bed and breakfast, now is a great time.

When starting a B&B, it’s important to be aware of the latest industry trends. For example, many guests prefer a facility that offers live entertainment or is located close to tourist attractions. It’s also to your advantage to research the market and see what features and services are being offered by the competition. Be innovative in coming up with ways to differentiate your business. Running a bed and breakfast is not easy, but it can be very rewarding if you play your cards right. 

7. Glamping

A decade ago nobody had heard the word glamping, which is short for “glamorous camping”. Today it’s a nearly $3 billion global industry and among the fastest-growing segments of the travel and hospitality market, expected to more than double by 2030. If you have a bit of land in an appealing location, or have the funds to purchase such a plot, you could start your own glamping business and make a good living offering luxury experiences to discerning travelers.

There will be some serious work involved. In addition to acquiring the property, you’ll need to outfit it with all the bells and whistles — from tents and teepees to high-end beds, furniture, lighting and air-conditioning and heating units. If your location is on the water, you could boost your revenue by also offering sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and more. But before you get started, this is a new and fast-evolving industry, so it’s best to take the time to research the market and learn the latest trends before diving in.

To attract customers, your glampground needs to be among the most appealing in your area.

8. Jet Ski Rental

Do you like having fun out on the water? Well, so does everybody else! That’s why starting a jet ski business is almost always a great idea. The global personal watercraft market is worth $1.5 trillion and expected to expand an impressive 50% by 2027. Right now is a great time to start a jet ski business, bring good times to your community and ride the market expansion to great success. 

Getting there will require a significant investment. You’ll need to spend about $25,000 to get your first few jet skis, plus a rental facility on the water and permits and licensing fees. Of course, you’ll also need to live near an appealing body of water, preferably one that’s enjoyable for more than a few months of the year. Finally, you will want to get good insurance, because jet skis are as dangerous as they are fun.

Once that’s all settled, just start advertising on local outlets and events, posting on relevant social media groups and online vacation platforms. You’ll have your first few customers in no time, and soon be cruising toward success.

9. Campground

Do you love the outdoors? If so, setting up a campground could be the perfect way to start your entrepreneurial journey. Camping is one of the most popular US pastimes in the US. Despite the pandemic, the number of US campers increased to 48 million in 2020, as outdoor activities were deemed safer than indoor recreation. 

Your biggest challenge in starting a campground is likely to be finding a suitable location. The most visited campgrounds in the US are in state parks, near bodies of water, surrounded by wilderness, or in the mountains. Once you find an ideal campsite, you’ll need to comply with licensing, zoning, and other legal requirements. Before you launch your business, it’s wise to research the market and find out what other campgrounds are offering. With careful planning and a creative marketing strategy, your campground can give competing sites a run for their money.

10. Pet Sitting

You’d probably never guess that pet sitting is a $2.6 billion industry, but it is indeed. People love their pets, and will spend whatever it takes to ensure they’re taken care of when they are away. The pet sitting market is projected to see impressive growth through 2027, so if you’re an animal lover, now is the perfect time to start your own pet sitting business and ride that wave to serious profits. 

The first step is to decide which type of pets you’ll care for. Do you have more experience with dogs or cats? Are you OK with snakes? Pigs? Once you’ve got that nailed down, you’ll just need to buy some pet toys and supplies and offer your services on a gigs site like TaskRabbit. It’s a good idea to reach out to friends, family and work-related contacts and acquaintances. If you’re able to generate an initial client or two from your own personal network, and provide them with great service, you’ll have a strong reference to promote your services and start building a successful business.

11. Spa Salon

Countless travelers love to relax with a day at the spa, which is why this is a growing $17 billion US industry. If you’re a massage therapist or esthetician, you could open a beauty salon, nail spa, luxury spa, massage studio, or even a mobile spa, and make people feel better while making a good living.  

You will likely need to get licensed, which can take some doing, and deliver excellent services to compete in an increasingly competitive and saturated market. Another crucial aspect will be location — your spa should be somewhere with steady traffic. Or you could go the mobile spa route and make house calls, bringing your massage and therapeutic services to your clients. This is more convenient for them, which means you can charge a higher rate, despite having lower overhead.

There are many elements to consider for your spa business, but what is not in doubt are your chances of success if you’re determined and can deliver healing services.

12. Scooter Rental

With gas prices going up, more and more Americans are turning to cheaper, more eco-friendly options for their commute and for seeing the city. Scooters cost less than cars and run on electricity. Over the past decade, Americans took a third of a billion trips on shared bikes and scooters. That’s a huge number, and it’s expected to increase sharply in the next few years. Considering this, a scooter rental business is a smart choice.

But first, it’s important to understand that scooters are used primarily as a transport option for short distances. Setting up this kind of business requires a huge upfront investment because you might have to purchase some scooters, unless you can lease them. You’ve need to make sure you have all the necessary permits and insurance in place before opening.

Once you have everything you need, it’s a good idea to work on a marketing plan. You can use social media, print ads, and word-of-mouth to get the word out about your new venture.

13. Party Bus

Ready to party? As the pandemic recedes, everybody’s getting back out there to have a good time. For a lot of people that means renting out a party bus and dancing and drinking the night away while cruising down the streets. Party buses are part of the $8 billion US limousine industry, and expect strong growth as people schedule long-delayed parties, gatherings, and nights on the town.

Starting your own party bus business will require considerable investment. The major cost will be, of course, the bus itself. Hopefully you’ll be able to find a reliable one at a reasonable price and then deck it out with all the trimmings, from a bar and disco ball to a DJ booth and more. Once you’ve done some marketing and gotten the word out you’ll be able to charge as much as $700 per night, so it shouldn’t take too long before you see a major return on your investment. 

Just be sure to get all your licenses, permits and insurance — the last thing you want is for the party to get parked on the curb.

14. Car Rental

As people book long-delayed holidays in the wake of the pandemic, car rentals are booming, with global revenues expected to double by 2027. With some hard work and determination, you could start your own car rental business and provide travelers the transport they need while grabbing your share of a growing $50 billion US market.  

Keep in mind that this is a competitive industry, which means you’ll need to find ways to stand out, such as with deep discounts or a unique selection of cars. Speaking of which, you’ll also need to lay out a sizable investment to get your initial fleet of four to five cars. Finally, it’s crucial that you meet all the licensing and insurance requirements or your business could face severe fines, or worse.

But if you’re able to clear these hurdles, there’s a good chance your car rental business will soon be cruising down easy street.

15. Boat Rental

Who doesn’t love a day out on the water? There are so many things to do. from skiing and tubing to cruising, socializing, swimming and just taking in the sun. That’s why boat rentals are a $5 billion US industry expected to see smooth sailing and steady growth in the years ahead. If you like spending time outdoors, you could start your own boat rental business and help people enjoy their time off while making a good living. 

There are several possible constraints. For one, you should live near a sizable body of water, and find an available access point or marina to base your operations. Second, you’ll likely need to accept the seasonal nature of this line of work, which in most areas of the US will only bring in revenue for 6-7 months of the year. Finally, getting started will require a significant investment, as appealing, rentable boats do not come cheap. 

But if you’re OK with all this, and able to acquire the necessary permits and insurance, once you start putting boaters on the water you’ll be cruising straight toward success.

16. Bike Rental

As travel regains steam and more workers return to the office, demand for bike rental for last-mile connections is sure to increase. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, a bike-share outfit or bike rental shop could be a great option. The US bike rental industry, valued at nearly $800 million, is projected to grow in the next five years amid a bike-share boom, driven in part by environmental concerns.

There are a few things you need to consider before starting a bike rental business. Is there a market for bike rental in your area? What kind of bikes should you offer? How many bikes should you start with? You will find the answers to these questions as you research the market. It is also important to comply with all the legal and regulatory requirements and to come up with a good marketing plan. One option is to place bike docks near subway stations and major bus stops.

17. RV Rental

RVing , or traveling in a recreational vehicle, is a popular way of exploring the US with family and friends. It’s showing no signs of slowing as more than 70 million Americans are expected to go on road trips in an RV they rent, own, or borrow, according to the RV Industry Association. You could start an RV rental business and tap into this exciting travel market.

You can either invest in a fleet of RVs, which would require a hefty investment, or you can just list your RV on an online marketplace like Outdoorsy. Before setting your rates, it’s a good idea to scope out the market and find out what your competitors are charging. You’ll have to factor in insurance and other costs in order to make a profit.

Finally, it’s important to keep your RVs well-maintained to attract customers, most of whom prefer to rent out new units. With all this in place, your RV rental business will making good money in no time.

18. Kayak Rental

As more people explore the outdoors in a post-pandemic world, a kayak business makes sense. It’s an eco-friendly way to help travelers enjoy their time off while getting some exercise and enjoying the great outdoors. Sales of kayaks and accessories are expected to see steady growth and reach nearly $300 million by 2027. So, why not start a kayak rental business now?

Aside from offering kayaks for rent, you could also also offer apparel and helmets, storage bags, seats, life jackets, and safety gear. Selecting the location of your shop is important. It will have to be near the coast, a river or a lake, and with steady foot traffic. You’ll need a substantial investment to set up your shop. Finally, it’s a good idea to promote your business and let people know about your offerings.

19. Taxi Business

Considering all the ride-sharing apps out there, you might be surprised to learn that old-school taxis are not only surviving, but doing quite well. The US taxi and limo market is worth more than $66 billion and expected to see steady growth in the coming years. If you enjoy driving and meeting new people, starting a taxi business might be the right move for you. 

Getting started will require some real effort and investment. You’ll need to buy a reliable car, if you don’t already have one, plus reliable insurance and all the necessary permits. In some cities the car hire license can be a major expense, for instance a New York City taxi medallion costs $80,000. In other places, like $300 in Cleveland, not so much. Once you’ve all set up, it’s a good idea to build a website so people can find you, and you might want to offer an app as well, as most car services nowadays offer on-demand ordering. 

Finally, get creative with your marketing to stand out in a competitive market, provide excellent service and steady driving to your first few clients, and the good reviews and revenues should start pouring in.

20. RV Park

The wanderlust spirit and a rise in road-tripping have amplified the allure of RV travel. Capitalizing on this trend, starting an RV park presents a golden opportunity in the travel business sector. Such parks cater to a growing demographic of explorers seeking the comfort of their RVs while embracing the freedom of the open road. With the right amenities and a strategic location, an RV park can be a haven for both short-term travelers and long-term nomads.

Location is paramount, ideally near popular tourist spots or natural attractions. Additionally, ensuring modern facilities, security, and possibly offering unique experiences or events can differentiate your park from competitors. As travel patterns evolve, an RV park can offer travelers a blend of adventure and convenience, making it a profitable and sustainable business venture.

21. Tour Operator

Tour operator business thrives on curating unique experiences, offering tailored packages, and ensuring travelers get the best out of their journeys. Unlike general travel agencies, tour operators control and manage the specifics of the trip, right from itinerary planning to the on-ground execution. This means creating partnerships with local businesses, ensuring safety standards, and offering a seamless travel experience to clients.

In today’s digital age, a tour operator’s success doesn’t just hinge on local networking, but also on a strong online presence. Reviews, testimonials, and digital marketing strategies play a pivotal role in attracting potential customers. Whether one chooses to cater to adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, or luxury travelers, the key is to differentiate, maintain high service standards, and keep evolving with the dynamic travel industry.

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• Travel Agency
• Photography
• Translation Business
• Bed and Breakfast
• Jet Ski Rental
• Pet Sitting
• Scooter Rental
• Boat Rental
• Bike Rental
• Kayak Rental
• Taxi Business
• Tour Operator

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Chapter 1. History and Overview

1.1 What is Tourism?

Before engaging in a study of tourism , let’s have a closer look at what this term means.

Definition of Tourism

There are a number of ways tourism can be defined, and for this reason, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) embarked on a project from 2005 to 2007 to create a common glossary of terms for tourism. It defines tourism as follows:

Tourism is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors (which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents) and tourism has to do with their activities, some of which imply tourism expenditure (United Nations World Tourism Organization, 2008).

Using this definition, we can see that tourism is not just the movement of people for a number of purposes (whether business or pleasure), but the overall agglomeration of activities, services, and involved sectors that make up the unique tourist experience.

Tourism, Travel, and Hospitality: What are the Differences?

It is common to confuse the terms tourism , travel , and hospitality or to define them as the same thing. While tourism is the all-encompassing umbrella term for the activities and industry that create the tourist experience, the UNWTO (2020) defines travel as the activity of moving between different locations often for any purpose but more so for leisure and recreation (Hall & Page, 2006). On the other hand, hospitality can be defined as “the business of helping people to feel welcome and relaxed and to enjoy themselves” (Discover Hospitality, 2015, p. 3). Simply put, the hospitality industry is the combination of the accommodation and food and beverage groupings, collectively making up the largest segment of the industry (Go2HR, 2020). You’ll learn more about accommodations and F & B in Chapter 3 and Chapter 4 , respectively.

Definition of Tourist and Excursionist

Building on the definition of tourism, a commonly accepted description of a tourist is “someone who travels at least 80 km from his or her home for at least 24 hours, for business or leisure or other reasons” (LinkBC, 2008, p.8). The United Nations World Tourism Organization (1995) helps us break down this definition further by stating tourists can be:

• Domestic (residents of a given country travelling only within that country)
• Inbound (non-residents travelling in a given country)
• Outbound (residents of one country travelling in another country)

Excursionists  on the other hand are considered same-day visitors (UNWTO, 2020). Sometimes referred to as “day trippers.” Understandably, not every visitor stays in a destination overnight. It is common for travellers to spend a few hours or less to do sightseeing, visit attractions, dine at a local restaurant, then leave at the end of the day.

The scope of tourism, therefore, is broad and encompasses a number of activities and sectors.

Spotlight On: United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

UNWTO is the United Nations agency responsible “for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism” (UNWTO, 2014b). Its membership includes 159 countries and over 500 affiliates such as private companies, research and educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations. It promotes tourism as a way of developing communities while encouraging ethical behaviour to mitigate negative impacts. For more information, visit the UNWTO website .

NAICS: The North American Industry Classification System

Given the sheer size of the tourism industry, it can be helpful to break it down into broad industry groups using a common classification system. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) was jointly created by the Canadian, US, and Mexican governments to ensure common analysis across all three countries (British Columbia Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, 2013a). The tourism-related groupings created using NAICS are (in alphabetical order):

• Accommodation
• Food and beverage services (commonly known as “F & B”)
• Recreation and entertainment
• Transportation
• Travel services

These industry groups (also commonly known as sectors) are based on the similarity of the “labour processes and inputs” used for each (Government of Canada, 2013). For instance, the types of employees and resources required to run an accommodation business whether it be a hotel, motel, or even a campground are quite similar. All these businesses need staff to check in guests, provide housekeeping, employ maintenance workers, and provide a place for people to sleep. As such, they can be grouped together under the heading of accommodation. The same is true of the other four groupings, and the rest of this text explores these industry groups, and other aspects of tourism, in more detail.

It is typical for the entire tourist experience to involve more than one sector. The combination of sectors that supply and distribute the needed tourism products, services, and activities within the tourism system is called the Tourism Supply Chain. Often, these chains of sectors and activities are dependent upon each other’s delivery of products and services. Let’s look at a simple example below that describes the involved and sometimes overlapping sectoral chains in the tourism experience:

Before we seek to understand the five tourism sectors in more detail, it’s important to have an overview of the history and impacts of tourism to date.

Long Descriptions

Figure 1.2 long description: Diagram showing the tourism supply chain. This includes the phases of travel and the sectors and activities involved during each phase.

There are three travel phases: pre-departure, during travel, and post-departure.

Pre-departure, tourists use the travel services and transportation sectors.

During travel, tourists use the travel services, accommodations, food and beverage, recreation and entertainment, and transportation sectors.

Post-departure, tourists use the transportation sector.

[Return to Figure 1.2]

Media Attributions

• Front Desk by Staying LEVEL is licensed under a CC BY-NC 4.0 Licence .

Tourism according the the UNWTO is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes.

UN agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism worldwide.

Moving between different locations for leisure and recreation.

The accommodations and food and beverage industry groupings.

someone who travels at least 80 km from his or her home for at least 24 hours, for business or leisure or other reasons

A same-day visitor to a destination. Their trip typically ends on the same day when they leave the destination.

A way to group tourism activities based on similarities in business practices, primarily used for statistical analysis.

Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality in BC - 2nd Edition Copyright © 2015, 2020, 2021 by Morgan Westcott and Wendy Anderson, Eds is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Example of Tourism Business Ideas Do you love showing travellers the unique and interesting aspects of South Africa? Tourism could be the industry for you. Before you get started here are some lessons from current businesses you can incorporate into your start-up.

By Nicole Crampton • Jul 24, 2019

You're reading Entrepreneur South Africa, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Since South Africa is known for its natural beauty, tourism will always hold numerous business opportunities, especially if you live in a popular tourist destination. Your business can offer everything from tours to accommodation and experiences.

Here are 10 examples of tourism businesses you can gain insights from before launching your own business:

1. Walking Tours

Do you love to explore your city on foot? Do you know all the hidden gems and interesting pieces of history? You could offer walking tours to tourists who want to genuinely experience this country.

Before you start mapping out your route, here is an example of this tourism business idea that can offer you insights into this industry:

Business Name: Walk & Talk Tours CC

Website: https://walktours.co.za/

Established Date: 1999

About the business:

Walk & Talk Tours CC aims to combine the pleasurable and therapeutic act of walking and talking. They want to introduce South Africa to not only tourists but also to South Africans, educating their clients about interesting areas of the country they wouldn't normally visit.

Innovative business offering

In addition to their walking tours, Walk & Talk Tours CC have a patented self-guiding system. This allows anyone to visit an area and gain information, tours, commentary, videos, pictures, apps and the history of the area.

2. Airbnb Rentals

Airbnb is a marketplace where you can rent out your spare room, or even your entire apartment or house. It caters to travellers looking for cheaper more interesting accommodation. Before you register your house on the platform, here is an example of an Airbnb host who you can learn from:

Business Name: Brigid Prinsloo

Website: https://www.airbnb.com/

Established Date: 2013

Brigid Prinsloo rented her spare room out on Airbnb. She started out with a very lean approach. At the end of that first month they had earned close to R10 000 renting the room out.

Related: 25 Of The Most Successful Business Ideas In South Africa

She purchased two more properties one with her fiancé and the other with her father and sister, which they also listed on Airbnb.

Innovative business offerin g

You'll need to create an experience for your guest. The better the experience the better the rating you'll get and the more customers you'll continue to attract.

3. Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb Experiences are unusual and engaging activities that you can offer through the Airbnb marketplace for travellers coming to your area. Experiences go above and beyond regular tours by immersing guests in a unique activity.

If you have something you can teach or guide visitors through, this could be the tourism business idea for you. Before you launch your start-up, here is an example of a tourist business you can learn from:

Business Name: Carving Cape's Single-track with a Pro

Website: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/123771

Paris Basson has over 25 years in the sports industry. He has raced all disciplines from Road, MTB, CX, Enduro and Triathlon's. He offers a once in a life time experience biking through the Table Mountain National Park, offering an adrenaline packed adventure and views of the Cape like no other.

Paris Basson has such an in-depth knowledge of the area and which routes suit the various experience levels of his clients that he can custom make a route to ensure every customer has the best experience.

4. Local Cuisine Cooking Class

Do you love to cook local food? Do you enjoy teaching others how to make interesting and unique meals? This could be the tourism business idea for you. Before you start cooking, here is an example of a tourism business you can gain insights from:

Business Name: Sazón Cooking School

Website: https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/mexico/san-miguel-de-allende/belmond-casa-de-sierra-nevada/

Sazón Cooking School is hosted in a magnificent 18 th - century mansion. Here their guests can study the bold flavours and rich history of regional culinary Mexican favourites. They also offer to teach their guests techniques to creating these flavourful dishes.

In addition to the cooking class Sazón is based in a heritage hotel offering its clients accommodation in the Mexican heartlands. They also offer market tours and classes to help their customers navigate the colourful and vibrant San Miguel Market.

5. Souvenir Shop

Do you love making something uniquely South African or African? Then this could be the tourism business idea for you. Here is an example:

Related: 11 Uniquely South African Business Ideas

Souvenir shops offer visitors locally inspired gifts they can take home to remember their experience. You can open one to ensure visitors always remember their incredible stay in South Africa.

Business Name: A Place To Shop

Website: https://www.aplacetoshop.co.za/

A Place To Shop offers fun and quirky South African and African souvenirs for both locals and travellers. They offer international delivery for those looking to purchase something African from across the ocean.

Some of their products are available for resell, this would increase their profits and ensure their products reached a larger audience.

6. An Airbnb Management Company

For people who have started listing multiple rentals, managing them can be quite a task, which is where Airbnb Management Companies came from. These tourism businesses assist with the day-to-day renting out of spaces on Airbnb.

Before you start advertising your services, here is an example of a business you can learn a few tricks from:

Business Name: Superhost South Africa

Website: http://superhostsouthafrica.com/

Established Date: 2015

Superhost South Africa is a full-service Airbnb property manager, they deal with the daily logistics and are on call 24/7 in case of emergencies. They offer everything from setting up their clients initial Airbnb profile to cleaning once the guest has left.

In addition, Superhost South Africa also offers ongoing optimisation to continually improve their client's listings, its profile and the service they deliver.

7. Fashion Mini-bar

In hotels across the world you typically get mini-bars that offer alcohol, cool drinks and snacks. But you could also offer a Mini Fashion bar; which visitors can pay for when checking out.

Related: The Ultimate 101 List Of SA Business Ideas To Get You Started

This ensures that those on a busy trip can still get some shopping done even if they never leave their hotel room. Before you start phoning hotels, here is an example of this business you can gain some insights from:

Business Name: Pimkie

Website: https://www.pimkie.it/

French clothing brand, Pimkie created a boutique bar filled with clothes and accessories to assist travellers in finding new clothing items and accessories to wear, particularly if they've forgotten to pack something.

Travellers can rent or buy the pieces they need and simple pay for them on check out. Guests can even call the Fashion concierge to source an item in their size.

8. Translators

Do you speak multiple languages? Then this could be the tourism business idea for you. You can help foreign tourists navigate South Africa by translating for them. Before you launch your start-up, here is an example of a tourism business you can learn strategies from:

Business Name: Language Connect

Website: https://www.languageconnect.net/sectors/travel-tourism/

Language Connect helps their clients to communicate seamlessly with their foreign guests and ensures the personal touch by offering services in multiple languages.

In addition, they also offer to translate their client's website, promotional videos, email campaigns, telephone message systems, advertising, brochures, menus, stationery and amenities into numerous languages.

9. Cultural/Heritage Tours

Do you have a vast knowledge of the culture and heritage in your area? Could you lead a cultural/heritage tour group? Then this could be the tourism business idea for you.

Related: Your Free Business Idea Evaluation SWOT Analysis Template

Here is an example of a tourism business that you can learn from before you start your business:

Business Name: Kruger National Park

Website: http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Krugerpark_Travel_Guide-travel/cultural-heritage-sites.html

Established Date: 1926

Kruger National Park is home to numerous historical locations and prehistoric rock art giving it a rich cultural heritage. They offer cultural tours for guests wanting to see restored villages and learn about the inhabitants' way of life.

In addition, the Kruger National Park is South Africa's most exciting African safari destination. They have a variety of safari tour options and can take their guests on a journey of exploration to find Africa's Big Five .

10. "Takeaway' Hotel Rooms

If you are good at building and designing rooms, you can create mini hotel rooms using shipping containers and plant them where ever your guests want to stay. Before you start purchasing containers, here is a tourism business that you can gain insights from:

Business Name: Scandic To Go

Website: https://www.scandichotels.com/landing-pages/scandic-to-go

Established Date: 2014

The Scandic To Go rooms are 18 sqm and offer all the amenities of a traditional hotel room, except that it can be moved to any pre-selected destinations. This allows a unique and one-of-a-kind experience for their guests.

In addition to offering the Scandic To Go rooms, they are a high-quality hotel brand that operates predominately in the Scandinavian countries, but also in Germany.

Related: A Free Business Plan Example to Launch Your South African Business

Entrepreneur Staff

Sales Enablement - Content Developer

Nicole Crampton is an SEO specialist who contributes to Entrepreneur.com/za. She has studied a BA Journalism at Monash South Africa and has continued her studies with a Creative Writing degree from UNISA. Nicole has completed several courses in writing and online marketing, and continues to hone her skills and expertise in digital media, digital marketing and content creation.

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16 adventurous travel business ideas (2024), march 11, 2024.

The travel industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, reaching over $1.6 trillion by 2028 . As more people prioritize experiences over material possessions this presents a major opportunity if you have been thinking about starting a travel business. Whether you want to start a boutique travel agency focusing on specific clientele or launch an adventurous excursion company, possibilities in the travel sector are endless.

If you still cannot figure out where to start, we got you covered with some of the most inspirational and profitable travel business ideas among globetrotters.

Best 16 travel business ideas

Here are some creative and profitable travel business ideas that you can start right away:

Local experience tours

Local experience tours offer immersive local experiences to tourists and travelers. This can be a good business idea because it allows visitors to deeply engage with local cultures, foods, activities, and people. Rather than just sightseeing, guests get to participate in unique adventures and make meaningful connections. For example, they may learn traditional cooking techniques from local chefs or join neighborhood walking tours led by long-time residents. This helps travelers create memories that a standard bus tour cannot provide. Meanwhile, it funnels tourist dollars into local communities and connects residents with appreciative guests.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Eco-friendly travel planning

Eco-friendly travel planning specializes in planning vacations focused on sustainability. This business would consult with travelers to suggest eco-friendly transportation, lodging, tours, and activities at each destination. Promoting green travel helps the environment by reducing carbon emissions. It also allows tourists to reduce their environmental impact through mindful choices. As more people seek eco-trips, a travel agency well-versed in this niche can match values-driven clients to the right locations and vendors. The differentiator is expertise in vetting and curating the most planet-friendly getaways.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Digital nomad services

It is a business that provides services to digital nomads. The business would help digital nomads be productive and enjoy their nomadic lifestyle. It could offer services like a membership program to access vetted wifi hotspots, discounts at co-working spaces, a network of trusted housesitters and property rentals, social meetups and events, job boards, and more. The goal would be to simplify logistics and create a community for remote workers on the go.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $1,000-$3,000 How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Travel blogging and vlogging

Travel blogging and vlogging refer to creating a blog and video blog to document travels. It involves creating written and visual content based on experiences visiting new destinations and sharing reviews about things like hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tours. There is a large audience of people who enjoy following along on others’ trips for inspiration on where to go as well as trustworthy recommendations. The blog and social media posts have the potential to generate clicks and shares as readers find the first-hand information helpful. All the content created while traveling opens up diverse moneymaking avenues. For instance, ads and affiliate marketing related to hospitality and tourism with commissions on reservations made.

How much you can make: $30,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $1,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Local guide services

By providing local knowledge, insider tips, and unique perspectives, a local guide service can help travelers discover hidden gems, understand the culture and history of a place, and create unforgettable memories. Moreover, this business model has low startup costs and can be easily scaled based on demand. It also supports the local economy by promoting small businesses and cultural attractions. With the rise of online platforms and social media, it has become easier than ever to market and book local guide services, making it a viable business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about their communities and eager to share their expertise with others.

How much you can make: $30,000-$60,000 How much does it cost to start: 1,000-$3,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Vacation rental management

It is a business that helps homeowners rent out their vacation properties. Owners hire this service to advertise listings, screen guests, manage bookings and payments, coordinate check-ins/outs, handle maintenance issues, and overall take care of all aspects of making the property available as a successful rental. The service benefits owners by maximizing occupancy and rental rates and it also benefits guests by providing professional management and good experiences. Overall it connects homeowners and travelers in a mutually beneficial way through convenient, managed vacation rentals.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Custom travel accessories

Custom travel accessories allow customers to personalize and customize their travel accessories. This business would offer products like luggage tags, passport holders, travel pillows, blankets, and more that could all be customized with the customer’s name, initials, favorite colors, and patterns. Customers appreciate custom accessories that feel made just for them. The business would cater to this demand by providing quality customizable products and a seamless online ordering experience. This allows customers to get the travel gear delivered right to their door.

How much you can make: $30,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Budget-friendly travel

Budget-friendly travel would help budget travelers by curating affordable travel packages, hotels, activities, and transportation options. For example, packages could bundle reduced-rate rooms with discounted local attractions, meals, and airport transfers to provide an entire trip for a reasonable price. Customers would simply choose their destination and desired budget, and receive an all-inclusive, cheap but high-quality travel experience. By hunting for travel deals, pre-arranging discounted group rates, and negotiating prices for budget bundles, the business does the hard work for the customer.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive is a worthwhile business idea to consider because many high-income people desire lavish getaways with top-tier amenities and easy convenience. The business would arrange deluxe experiences including six-star cruises with private balconies, butler service, and gourmet dining or five-star beach resorts offering elite spas, golf, and personalized adventure excursions. It solves the hassle of intricate travel planning for demanding luxury guests. By leveraging partnerships and global connections, the business can facilitate access to hard-to-book suites, dream locales, and elite recreations for well-to-do travelers seeking the ultimate, no-compromises holidays tailored specifically to their desires.

How much you can make: $100,000-$250,000 How much does it cost to start: $50,000-$100,000 How long does it take to build: 12-18 months

Glamping offers the experience of camping outdoors combined with more comfortable, outfitted tents, beds, furniture, bathrooms, and other amenities more commonly found in hotels. This can appeal to those who enjoy nature and the outdoors but don’t necessarily want to rough it in a traditional tent fully. There is demand for off-the-grid vacations and glamping caters well to this market. The start-up costs may be higher than traditional campgrounds to furnish the upscale tents and build suitable restrooms/showers. However, the nightly rates charged to guests offset this over time. It allows for seasonal hospitality without large permanent real estate. The modular and transportable nature also provides flexibility if relocating the glamping resort is necessary.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 How much does it cost to start: $20,000-$50,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Go solo or go social

Go solo or go social provides a platform for people to access services, either individually or in a social setting. The premise is that some services are best-enjoyed solo while others are more fun with company. For example, a massage may be preferred alone while going to a dance class could be more enjoyable with friends. The business would allow users to search for and book various services, selecting if they want to partake solo or if they want to facilitate a group social experience around the service. This can help service providers reach more customers, especially younger demographics interested in social experiences. It also caters to solo customers unable or unwilling to coordinate groups. Allowing both individual and shared services widens the target market.

How much you can make: $30,000-$60,000 How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Crypto trips

Crypto Trips accepts payment in cryptocurrencies and rewards customers with crypto tokens or NFTs. This allows crypto enthusiasts to spend their assets on memorable life experiences while earning exclusive rewards. It makes cryptocurrency more usable in daily life. The agency would partner with hospitality vendors to build travel packages that crypto holders could purchase with their preferred coin. Along with the trips, customers would gain access to unique digital collectibles from that destination. As cryptocurrencies gain mainstream traction, a crypto-based travel agency creates a practical use case while catering to a tech-savvy audience.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Sleep tourism

Sleep tourism is an idea where people travel specifically to get high-quality sleep. It would involve setting up accommodations designed specifically for optimal sleep health. This could be attractive for those who struggle with poor sleep at home due to noise, light, uncomfortable beds, etc. Quality sleep is increasingly seen as vital for physical and mental health, yet many do not prioritize it. This business would cater to that need, becoming a sleep-focused travel destination. Visitors could enjoy comfortable beds and bedrooms, carefully regulated temperatures and lighting suited for sleep, soundproofing, and possibly amenities like soothing music or scents. The sleep tourism business would be founded on the understanding that quality sleep underpins health, performance, and well-being. Providing an environment optimized solely for excellent slumber, it allows travelers to experience the proven benefits of great sleep.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Adventure travel guide service

Adventure travel guide service connects adventure travelers with experienced, local guides at their destination. Many people want more immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences when they travel. However, finding trustworthy, knowledgeable guides can be challenging, especially in developing countries. This service would vet potential guides, connect them with clients based on adventure activity interests and trip details, and take a percentage from the guide fees. It would make adventure travel easier to plan and provide income to local guides.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Corporate travel management

Corporate travel management specializes in booking and managing business travel for companies. Many large companies spend a significant amount on employee travel but find coordinating all the flights, hotels, transportation, and other details very time-consuming which makes it a profitable business idea. A corporate travel management company simplifies the process by customizing travel booking platforms, negotiating discounts with travel vendors, providing a dedicated account manager, organizing group travel, and streamlining expense reporting.

How much you can make: $75,000-$150,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Destination wedding planner

A destination wedding planner business helps engaged couples plan and execute their dream wedding in a romantic, exotic destination away from home. A destination wedding planner also often costs less than a traditional domestic wedding. A planner could provide end-to-end planning services to make travel arrangements, book venues, and vendors, manage legal paperwork, suggest ideas to personalize details and coordinate the event. They simplify the process for the couple while also getting a commission from referring vendors.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Success in this vibrant industry demands blending creativity, adaptability, and comprehending your audience. Yes, we know that the road ahead may be paved with challenges, but the rewards of building a successful travel business are well worth the trek. From the personal fulfillment of turning your passion into a profession to the financial freedom of a flourishing enterprise, the potential payoffs are immense.

More must-read stories from Enterprise League:

• Creative and profitable 3D printing business ideas .
• Some of the worst business ideas you should steer clear from.
• Profitable and funny business idea that you can start today.
• Healthcare business ideas with growth potential.
• Box truck business ideas with profit potential.

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Cities in the eclipse’s path are getting an economic ‘shot in the arm.’

Millions of tourists trying to experience the totality could bolster smaller economies across North America.

• Share full article

By Santul Nerkar and J. Edward Moreno

• April 8, 2024

A vast swath of North America will soon be plunged into darkness. Though momentary, the total solar eclipse on Monday has already proved lucrative.

Across the United States, Mexico and Canada, towns and villages have been planning what could be the biggest tourist attraction for many small cities. Larger areas that are more accustomed to hosting events are nonetheless expecting a significant windfall.

“We don’t usually have this kind of tourism — it’s not common,” said Edgar Augusto González-Zatarain, the mayor of Mazatlán, Mexico. “Nature is giving us this opportunity, and we have to take advantage of it.”

Various indicators suggest the eclipse will bolster the economies in the path of totality, a roughly 110-mile-wide belt that will stretch from Mazatlán to Montreal. Hertz said car reservations had jumped 3,000 percent from a year ago. Airbnb has reported a 1,000 percent increase in searches for listings. In Oklahoma, the Choctaw Nation had seen a 200 percent increase as of mid-March in reservations at its resorts and casinos.

Mazatlán has long relied heavily on its port and fisheries, but the beach town has had growth in tourism, which now accounts for 80 percent of its economy. Still, it is often overshadowed by other Mexican resort towns and has had recent instances of cartel violence that may spook tourists. Mazatlán will experience the eclipse longer than many other cities, at more than four minutes. Hotels there are fully booked, and officials expect 120,000 visitors and an economic output of 500 million pesos (about $30 million).

Indianapolis is expecting roughly 100,000 visitors for the eclipse, said Chris Gahl, the chief executive of the city’s tourism marketing organization, who estimates the visitors will bring in $28 million to $48 million for the city. The city is used to hosting major events — including this year’s N.B.A. All-Star Game and the N.F.L.’s scouting combine — but the eclipse is a chance for the city to promote more of its arts and culture scene.

“We view hosting and being in the path of totality as an opportunity to diversify and broaden the audiences that might consider visiting Indy,” Mr. Gahl said.

Tourism officials in Austin, Texas, reported higher-than-usual hotel occupancy rates for the weekend before and the day of the eclipse. The city has the highest hotel inventory per capita in the state and is used to handling large influxes of tourists for events like South by Southwest and the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix.

“Our city is very much prepared and very experienced with large events and large influxes of people coming into the city,” said Wesley Lucas, a spokeswoman for Austin’s tourism marketing organization.

Bulent Temel, an economics professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio, estimated that eclipse tourism would add $285 million to the state’s economy. In an opinion essay, he called the event “ the most profitable 22 minutes in Texas history .”

But towns in the Texas Hill Country, which offers a better view of the eclipse, are far less accustomed to such events. Kerrville, a town of roughly 25,000, is preparing for its population to more than triple, town officials said.

The tourist-attracting event also presents a potential nuisance for public safety. Business owners and town officials have been preparing for several years, drawing on the experiences of the 2017 eclipse.

“This is going to be a great big economic shot in the arm for us,” said William Thomas, the emergency management coordinator for Kerr County, which includes Kerrville. “At the same time, it’s also going to be a tremendous drain on resources.”

Doug Hetzler, the manager of Gibson’s Discount Center in Kerrville, said his store was staying open longer during the week leading up to the eclipse and stocking its shelves with Moon Pies and wind chimes.

Mr. Hetzler said the store would offer a deal for tourists looking for precious space to park their cars during the event: Parking costs $50, but if you spend $100 in the store, you get that $50 back.

Mr. Hetzler hopes that the eclipse, more than creating a financial windfall, gives visitors a lasting impression of a town — and an old-time store — that they otherwise might not visit.

“Our opportunity is really to expose people to a store like this and a culture like this,” he said.

Santul Nerkar is a reporter covering business and sports. More about Santul Nerkar

J. Edward Moreno is a business reporter at The Times. More about J. Edward Moreno

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Millions of people are traveling to see the total eclipse. Hotels, motels, and skydiving operators are making bank on it.

• Millions of tourists are expected to boost economies in Texas and New York during the eclipse.
• Hotels, an eyeglasses manufacturer, and even skydiving companies are preparing for increased business.
• One study predicted that the eclipse could benefit the US economy with nearly $1.6 billion.

As millions of Americans get ready to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday — an event NASA has described as rare and "spectacular" — the phenomenon stands to lift local economies.

Various industries are poised to benefit from the millions of tourists flocking to cities in Texas, Ohio, and New York , which are on the eclipse's "path of totality" and offer the best views of the ring around the sun.

According to NASA, this year's eclipse is set to last three to four minutes, longer than the last solar eclipse , in 2017. People who miss this one will not be able to see another in the contiguous US until 2044 or 2045, the agency said.

Up to 3.7 million people are set to travel to the path of the eclipse, joining the 31 million people already living along the stretch, according to predictions by the eclipse-tracking website Great American Eclipse .

Visitors are expected to spend big: They'll shell out up to $1.6 billion on lodging, activities, food, and gas, the Texas economic consultancy Perryman Group estimated .

Here are some of the industries seeing big boosts from Monday's eclipse.

Hotels and Airbnbs book out

The budget hotel chain Super 8 has over 300 locations within the path of totality, per The New York Times. About 100 of these hotels are sold out for Sunday or Monday, according to the chain's website.

One two-star Super 8 branch in Grayville, Illinois, is advertising rooms for between $765 and $950 from Sunday through Tuesday. On most days, the rooms typically cost $80, the Super 8 website shows.

Higher-end hotels are seeing similar spikes. A JW Marriott in Dallas listed a standard room for $1,039 for Sunday night. It typically costs between $355 and $482, the website said.

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Visitors are flocking to Airbnbs, too. As of March 25, occupancy rates for April 7 soared to 88% across 110,000 active listings on the path of totality, according to the vacation-rental-data company AirDNA.

The biggest glasses manufacturer has sold out

People can permanently damage their eyesight by looking straight into the sun during an eclipse, so NASA recommends specific solar-filtering glasses .

The eye-protection guidelines translated into huge sales for some glasses manufacturers.

Tennessee's American Paper Optics, the country's largest producer of protective eclipse eyeglasses, has seen a big jump in sales compared with the total eclipse in 2017.

The company started taking eclipse orders two years in advance, John Jerit, the company's founder, told NPR on Friday. The glasses sold for $1.50 to $2 apiece.

"We've shipped already about 70 million glasses, and I suspect I'm going to approach right at 75 million by the time next week comes," Jerit said.

American Paper Optics sold out of glasses this year after producing about 30 million more glasses than it did for the total solar eclipse in 2017, according to a sales figure on the company's site .

Eclipse skydiving attracts thrill seekers

Some adrenaline junkies seeking a novel vantage point are planning to jump during totality to enjoy the darkness from the sky.

A group of 30 skydivers plans to jump in northern New York on Monday, Fox News reported . Tickets for the dive, hosted by the local company Skydive the Falls, sold out in seven minutes after they went live in January.

"We're going to jump one minute prior to totality, so we can enjoy totality in full under our parachutes," Jason Berger, a co-owner of Skydive the Falls, told Fox News.

A similar event in Dallas sold out of its $250 eclipse skydive tickets, too.

For sun observers on the ground, restaurants are making the most of the celestial phenomenon with eclipse menus and specials. Establishments like Smoothie King, Applebee's, and Sonic are offering special eclipse-themed smoothies and margaritas, as well as "blackout" drinks to mark the occasion.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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