XI UNIT-4 (NOTES ) TOURISM COMPONENTS-I

 UNIT-4

TOURISM COMPONENTS-I

 

 

4.1Introduction

 

The term "tourism" is mostly used to describe the act of people visiting other places for leisure, vacation, or sightseeing, among other reasons. The tourist sector is complicated and multidimensional due to the large range of components and organizations involved in these operations. It is now a major worldwide activity that combines the efforts of several industries.

The tourist sector is made up of a variety of entities, ranging from local small companies to global conglomerates. For example, as all of them serve the requirements of travellers, a fast-food restaurant at an airport is seen as a component of the tourism sector, much like an airline or a hotel. Even though these elements compete with one another, they are linked together and enhance the traveller experience as a whole.

Proficiency in fundamental aspects of tourism is vital for both professionals and students pursuing this career. Attraction and accessibility are two essential elements to understand since they play a major role in drawing visitors and making it easier for them to travel to different locations. These elements serve as the industry's cornerstone and are essential to its prosperity.

4.2Defining Attractions

 

 

An essential part of the tourism sector is the tourist attractions. These are the characteristics or factors that draw people in and pique their interest in travelling. These attractions can take in a wide range of a location's natural and cultural features. The objective of attractions is to cater to the individual leisure demands of visitors. They may consist of:

1. **Natural Attractions:** These comprise features like climate, culture, vegetation, and scenery. Tourists often seek destinations with unique natural settings, such as mountains, rivers, waterfalls, deserts, and forests. Examples include Niagara Falls, Icelandic geysers, African wildlife, and Himalayan hill stations.

 

2. **Cultural and Historical Attractions:** These are places of cultural or historical significance that draw tourists due to their inherent or exhibited value. Examples encompass historical sites, monuments, museums, art galleries, botanical gardens, and buildings like castles, libraries, and skyscrapers.

 

3. **Entertainment and Amusement Attractions:** These include venues for entertainment and amusement, such as theme parks, carnivals, living history museums, ethnic enclaves, historic trains, and cultural events.

 

4. **Geographical Location and Accessibility:** The geographical location of an attraction, whether inland or coastal, can greatly influence its appeal. Accessibility, or how easily tourists can reach a place, is also a crucial factor.

 

5. **Climatic Conditions:** Weather conditions play a significant role in attracting tourists. Many travellers from regions with extreme climates seek destinations with favourable weather conditions, like beaches and hill stations in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Australia, and Thailand.

 

Tourism destinations encompass communities, regions, and cities that offer attractions and services to visitors. Tourism is considered a product because it attracts "buyers," in this case, tourists. When tourists visit a destination, they consume various products and services, which contribute to the local economy through income and taxes. Governments often encourage tourism as a means of attracting investors and boosting their country's economy.

 

In the tourism industry, terms like tourism resources, tourism products, tourism sites, and destinations are used interchangeably. A destination can span a wide geographical area and is defined as a place where a visitor stays overnight. Destinations may consist of site attractions, which are locations with inherent appeal, and event attractions, which draw tourists due to specific happenings or events at a location. The overall attraction of a destination depends on factors like the attitude of the local population, available amenities, natural surroundings, accessibility, and the quality of facilities and services.

 

4.2Types of Attractions

 

Tourist attractions are the core elements that drive people to travel and explore new places. These attractions can take various forms and are categorized into three primary types:

 

1. **Natural Attractions:**

   - **Definition:** Natural attractions are places or features that are not created by humans but exist due to natural processes or phenomena on Earth.

   - **Examples:** Mountains, hill stations, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, forests, deserts, beaches, and other natural landscapes.

   - **Importance:** Natural attractions are significant in tourism as they showcase the beauty and diversity of the natural world, attracting tourists seeking awe-inspiring scenery and outdoor experiences. Examples include the Alps in Europe and the Himalayan Mountains in India and Nepal.

 

2. **Man-Made or Built Attractions:**

   - **Definition:** Man-made or built attractions are objects or structures created by human beings, often for cultural, historical, artistic, or entertainment purposes.

   - **Examples:** Monuments (e.g., the Taj Mahal), museums, historical complexes, archaeological sites, theme parks (e.g., Disney World), iconic landmarks (e.g., Eiffel Tower), and cultural events.

   - **Importance:** These attractions showcase human achievements, history, and culture. They play a vital role in tourism, preserving heritage and providing educational and entertainment experiences for visitors. India's wealth of monuments and cultural sites is a prime example.

 

3. **Symbiotic Attractions:**

   - **Definition:** Symbiotic attractions are tourism products that blend both natural and man-made elements. These attractions involve the management and enhancement of natural resources by humans.

   - **Examples:** Wildlife sanctuaries, marine parks, adventure sports (e.g., white water rafting, skiing), flower festivals, and eco-tourism activities.

   - **Importance:** Symbiotic attractions offer a unique blend of nature and human intervention. They require responsible management to maintain the ecological balance while providing recreational opportunities for tourists. Adventure sports, for instance, rely on the natural environment as a backdrop for thrilling experiences.

 

In summary, tourist attractions come in various forms, ranging from the unspoiled beauty of natural landscapes to the rich cultural and historical heritage of man-made landmarks. Symbiotic attractions combine the best of both worlds, offering travelers opportunities to engage with nature and human creativity. These attractions are the foundation of the tourism industry, providing unique experiences that cater to the diverse interests and preferences of tourists.

Exercise-1

 

1. Define attraction.

An attraction is anything that creates a desire in any person to travel there. It can be a physical or cultural feature of a particular place, or it can be an event or activity. Attractions can be natural, such as mountains, forests, and beaches, or they can be man-made, such as historical sites, museums, and amusement parks.

In tourism, attractions are the most important basic component. They are what draw tourists to a destination, and they are what keep them coming back. Attractions can be classified into different categories, such as:

• Natural attractions: These are attractions that are created by nature, such as mountains, forests, beaches, and waterfalls.
• Cultural attractions: These are attractions that are created by humans, such as historical sites, museums, and art galleries.
• Recreational attractions: These are attractions that offer opportunities for recreation and entertainment, such as amusement parks, water parks, and casinos.
• Event attractions: These are attractions that are temporary or seasonal, such as festivals, concerts, and sporting events.

 

2.               What is the difference between a natural and manmade attraction?

 

**Difference Between Natural and Manmade Attractions**

 

The key distinction between natural and manmade attractions lies in their origin and creation:

1. **Natural Attractions:**

   - **Origin:** Natural attractions are places or features that were not created by humans but have either always existed or were formed through natural processes on Earth.

   - **Examples:** Examples of natural attractions include Dal Lake, Niagara Falls, beaches, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, forests, and deserts.

   - **Significance:** Natural attractions are significant factors in tourism due to their inherent beauty and appeal. They often draw large numbers of tourists who are captivated by the scenic and natural wonders of these locations.

   - **Geographical Examples:** Tourists are attracted to the northern slopes of the Alps in Switzerland and Austria, the southern slopes in Italy, and the Himalayan Mountain slopes in India and Nepal.

2. **Manmade or Built Attractions:**

   - **Origin:** Manmade attractions are objects, structures, or features that exist because they were intentionally created by human beings.

   - **Examples:** Manmade attractions encompass a wide range of sites and structures, including the Statue of Liberty, Disney World, the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids, the Taj Mahal, Mount Rushmore, the Great Wall of China, monuments, museums, archaeological sites, and historical sites.

   - **Diverse Categories:** Manmade attractions can be categorized into various forms of human expression, including arts and handicrafts, cultural events, entertainment venues (amusement and recreation parks, cinemas, theaters, nightclubs), and culinary experiences (cuisine).

   - **Cultural Heritage:** Many countries, like India, are rich in manmade attractions that represent their cultural heritage. Temples, mosques, architectural wonders, sculptures, paintings, and museums showcase the artistic and historical legacy of a region.

In summary, natural attractions are the result of Earth's natural processes and are appreciated for their inherent beauty and uniqueness. Manmade attractions, on the other hand, are intentionally created by humans and encompass a wide spectrum of cultural, artistic, historical, and entertainment experiences. Both types of attractions contribute significantly to the tourism industry, providing diverse opportunities for travelers to explore and enjoy different aspects of the world.

4.4 Accessibility-Modes of Transportation and Significance

Transportation plays a crucial role in the world of tourism, forming an essential link between tourist origins and their desired destinations. The relationship between the tourism and transportation industries is symbiotic, benefiting both sectors. Accessible and efficient transport services are fundamental for the growth and development of tourist destinations. Conversely, tourism generates substantial demand for transportation services, creating a mutually beneficial connection.

 

Accessibility is a key concept in tourism. It encompasses the ease of reaching a destination through various modes of transportation. Every tourist attraction must have accessible routes to cater to travelers' needs. In today's globalized world, efficient and cost-effective transport infrastructure is vital for international tourism's continued expansion in Asia and the Pacific region.

 

Transportation's significance extends to socio-economic aspects, providing essential mobility for people and goods worldwide. Access to reliable and comfortable transportation is a top priority for tourists. Destinations become popular when they are easily accessible, making regular, comfortable, affordable, and safe transport services a necessity.

 

Throughout history, transportation methods have evolved to meet changing needs and technological advancements. In ancient times, travel relied on animals for land journeys and sails for sea voyages. However, the development of steam, electricity, and internal combustion engines in the 19th and 20th centuries revolutionized travel. The introduction of jet engines in the late 1950s further expanded the possibilities of air travel, connecting the world in unprecedented ways.

 

Today, transportation modes can be classified into three categories:

 

1. **Surface Transportation:** This category includes land-based modes like roads and railways, facilitating travel within and between regions.

 

2. **Water Transportation:** Water-based transport, including ships and boats, is crucial for accessing coastal and island destinations.

 

3. **Air Transportation:** The advent of jet engines revolutionized air travel, allowing rapid and efficient connections between distant locations.

 

In summary, transportation is the lifeblood of the tourism industry, enabling tourists to explore diverse destinations. The evolution of transportation methods has continually shaped the way people travel and experience the world. The close relationship between tourism and transportation continues to drive global mobility and economic growth.

 

4.4.1Surface Transport

Surface transport refers to the movement of people and goods over land and water, excluding air travel. It serves as a critical mode of transportation for both short and medium distances, connecting remote villages to mainstream national life and opening up interior regions. The primary modes of surface transport include road and rail transport, each offering unique advantages and serving diverse needs.

1. **Road Transport:** Road transport is a versatile and accessible means of travel suitable for short to medium distances. It plays a pivotal role in connecting people living in far-off villages to different regions, contributing to their integration into national life. This mode of transport is flexible, reliable, and cost-effective. It offers door-to-door service, making it an essential infrastructure component for millions. Road networks consist of various categories, such as national highways, state highways, district roads, village roads, and unclassified village roads. State highways, in particular, play a crucial role in connecting significant tourist destinations within a state's various districts. In a country like India, where over 75 percent of the population resides in rural areas, road transport reduces distances and fosters connectivity.

2. **Rail Transport:** Railways are primary carriers, especially suited for long-distance travel. In many countries, including India, railways serve as the backbone of surface transport. While roads can be constructed in hilly areas, laying railway lines in such terrain is challenging. Railways offer several advantages over roadways, including the ability to transport a large number of passengers and heavy loads over extended distances. Train journeys are often more comfortable than bus travel. India boasts an extensive railway network, spanning approximately 63,000 kilometres. It operates around 7,800 trains daily, carrying about eleven million passengers to their destinations. India's railway system is the largest in Asia and the second-largest globally. It transports approximately six lakh tonnes of goods daily, contributing significantly to the nation's economic growth. Additionally, Indian Railways offers special luxury trains such as the Palace on Wheels, Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, and Fairy Queen, providing tourists with unique travel experiences.

International Tourist Bureaus, located in various major cities across the country, cater to foreign tourists and non-resident Indians (NRIs) holding valid passports. These bureaus issue reserved tickets in exchange for US dollars, Pounds Sterling, or Rupees (against an Encashment Certificate). They also offer Indrail passes, providing tourists with the flexibility to travel wherever and whenever they wish within the pass's validity period.

In conclusion, surface transport, consisting of road and rail systems, plays a pivotal role in connecting people and places, promoting economic growth, and enhancing travel experiences for both domestic and international tourists.

4.4.2Air Transport

Passengers and commodities are transported across the sky by air transport, which is mainly made possible by airplanes. It is essential to the tourist sector, being in a symbiotic connection where both parties rely on one another. Travelling from one's place of origin to another for a variety of reasons is known as tourism, and it is strongly dependent on the aviation sector. Air transport between locations is the focus of the aviation sector of the travel business. This complex relationship has important ramifications for international trade and tourism.

 

1. **Vital Role of Aviation:** Since aviation is the only worldwide transportation system, it is essential to both international business travel and the travel and tourist sector. Air travel has become the primary means of long-distance and international tourism due to its speed and ease. The relevance of aviation for short- and medium-haul tourism travel has grown further in light of recent events like deregulation and the emergence of low-cost carriers.

2. **Mutual Dependence:** The tourism sector and the aviation industry are interdependent. For tourists to reach their destinations, effective transportation is essential, and for the aviation business, tourism creates demand for its services. The growth of the tourist sector has a direct impact on air travel. Alongside the rise in international air travel during the past 25 years, there has been a more than twofold increase in foreign tourism. The tourism industry is expanding rapidly due to the attraction of package trips and affordable airfares, which are drawing more and more travelers.

3. **Evolution of Air Transport in India:** In India, scheduled air travel started in 1932, but until it was nationalized in 1953, it had little economic impact. Indian Airlines and Air India were the two organizations formed following the Air Organizations Act of 1953. Air India handled international travel, while Indian Airlines provided local and regional routes. Established in 1985, Pawan Hans offered helicopter services to facilitate offshore oil drilling and link isolated locations. Under the open sky policy, the government has allowed commercial operators to operate trunk lines within India since 1990. Since then, Indian Airlines and Air India have combined to form a single company that goes by the name Air India.

 

4. **Air Transport's Role in Indian Tourism:** In India, air travel is mostly used for passenger travel and is essential to the growth of the travel industry. The government makes large investments in airport expansion and modernization to take advantage of India's enormous tourism potential. To handle the increasing number of visitors, the Airport Authority of India has extended international airports to significant cities. India should encourage foreign airlines to run additional flights from the nation by making use of underutilized airports to further boost tourist arrivals. Offering more landing rights and the infrastructure required to maximize airport utilization would help achieve this.

In conclusion, there is a strong link between the aviation industry and tourism, with one supporting the growth of the other. Air travel has become an essential component of the tourism sector due to its ease, and India's attempts to improve its aviation infrastructure are in line with its objective of drawing in more visitors and strengthening its economy.

 

4.4.3Water Transport

 

Water transport, which involves the use of watercraft to carry passengers or cargo, holds a rich historical significance and continues to play a vital role in the transportation industry. While air travel has reduced the importance of sea travel for passengers on long journeys, water transport remains an efficient choice for short trips and leisure cruises. Let's delve into the historical context, the current status, and the tourism potential of water transport.

 

1. **Historical Significance:** Water transport, much like railways, made a significant contribution to travel during the 19th century. While railways revolutionized inland travel, steamships expanded horizons and facilitated intercontinental journeys. Before the dominance of road and rail transport, water transport was the oldest and most relied-upon mode of transportation for moving goods and people.

 

2. **India's Coastal Advantage:** India, with its extensive coastline of about 5500 kilometers, has significant potential for utilizing coastal shipping to transport goods and passengers. Currently, passenger traffic primarily flows from the mainland to Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep Islands. Seasonal services, like the one from Mumbai to Goa, also operate. India boasts 11 major and 139 minor ports, with major ports under the control of the Union Government's Ministry of Surface Transport and minor ports managed by State Governments.

 

3. **Cruise Tourism:** Water-based transport offers a unique and memorable travel experience for visitors. Cruise tourism, in particular, has seen substantial growth worldwide. It's not just a means of travel but an integral part of the travel experience itself. Developing a destination as a cruise port requires thorough assessments of economic, environmental, and social factors. Cities along rivers or coastal areas have significant potential for planning various boat, steamer, or ship package tours.

 

   - **Examples of Cruise Tourism:** Several Indian states have welcomed cruise tourism. The West Bengal Tourism Department launched unique travel initiatives that used launches to transport visitors to the well-known Sunderban area, home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. It was successful because accommodations were made for a comfortable voyage and stay. Motor launches transport visitors to the Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, providing a singular experience. The Goa Tourism Department arranges different lengths of sea excursions so that visitors may explore the coastline. With leisure options on board, a cruise ship trip to the Lakshadweep islands is an unforgettable experience. Also, travel organizations provide unique maritime cruises to the Andaman Islands. Other unusual tourist attractions include houseboat stays on Kashmir's Dal Lake, boat excursions in Varanasi or Allahabad, and boating and water activities in places like Nainital.

 

   - **Local Transport and Tourist Enjoyment:** In places like Cochin, boat buses serve as local transportation, but tourists relish traveling in them, appreciating the scenic beauty along the way.

 

Water transport not only connects places but also enriches travel experiences. Whether it's a serene cruise, an island-hopping adventure, or a scenic boat trip, water transport continues to captivate the imagination of travelers and offers a unique lens through which to explore destinations.

 

4.5Amenities: Health and Hygiene, Security

 

Travelers' enjoyment and safety are guaranteed by the necessary facilities, hygienic practices, health regulations, and security measures, in addition to the destinations' inherent charm. Let's examine these vital elements that make every tourism site successful:

**Amenities - Enhancing the Tourist Experience:**

- **Types of Amenities:** Amenities encompass a wide range of facilities that tourists require at their destination. These include diverse accommodations, entertainment options, adventure activities, and recreational avenues.

- **Natural and Manmade Amenities:** Amenities can be classified into two categories: natural and manmade. Natural amenities include attractions like beaches, sea-bathing, fishing, trekking, and more. Manmade amenities comprise entertainment options and facilities designed to meet tourists' specific needs.

- **Importance:** Well-planned amenities are integral to any tourist center. They enhance the overall experience and provide diverse opportunities for recreation and enjoyment.

 

**Health and Hygiene - Vital for a Positive Image:**

- **Health and Hygiene Standards:** Tourists seek destinations that offer a healthy and hygienic environment. This includes proper waste management, clean pathways, and a general commitment to cleanliness.

- **Medical Facilities:** To promote tourism, destination authorities must ensure the availability of medical centers equipped with modern health facilities to provide medical aid to tourists.

- **Food Hygiene:** Food safety is paramount in the tourism industry. Strict food hygiene standards are essential to protect consumers from food-related illnesses. Food handlers are legally responsible for ensuring the safety of food preparation and service.

 

**The Importance of Food Hygiene:**

- Poor food hygiene can lead to consequences such as food-related illnesses, fines, prosecution, low staff morale, damage to the business's reputation, reduced profits, increased food wastage, and even business closure.

- Maintaining high food hygiene standards is crucial for good customer relations, a positive working environment, low staff turnover, legal compliance, reduced food wastage, and the prevention of food-related illnesses.

 

**Security - Ensuring Safe Tourism:**

- **Safety and Security:** Safety and security are paramount in tourism. The success or failure of a tourist destination often hinges on its ability to provide a safe and secure environment for visitors.

- **Crime Prevention:** A place with security issues and law and order problems cannot become an attractive tourist destination. To promote tourism, destinations must prioritize security measures to address and prevent crime associated with tourist activities.

- **Importance:** Security ensures that tourists can enjoy their visit without disruptions or safety concerns. Tourists are more likely to choose destinations that prioritize safety and security.

 

To sum up, facilities, security, health, and cleanliness are essential elements of the travel and tourist sector. They contribute to the success and favourable perception of a place in addition to improving the visitor experience. Setting these priorities high can help draw and keep tourists, foster economic development, and protect visitors' well-being.

 

Exercise-2

 

 

1. Define Surface Transport.

 

In contrast to air transport by plane, surface transport refers to the movement of people or commodities utilizing different means of transportation that function on the surface of the Earth, such as roads, trains, and ships.

- **Road Transport:**

   - Road transport is highly suitable for short to medium distances.

   - It plays a crucial role in connecting far-off villages to mainstream national life by providing essential infrastructure.

   - This mode of transport facilitates the opening up of interior and remote areas.

   - It is comparatively cost-effective and requires less capital investment.

   - Key advantages include flexibility, reliability, speed, and door-to-door service.

   - Various categories of roads, such as National highways, state highways, district roads, village roads, and unclassified village roads, provide access to millions of people.

   - State highways are often used to connect important tourist destinations within a state.

   - In India, road transport is particularly significant due to over 75 percent of the population residing in rural areas.

   - Road transport helps reduce distances between different locations.

 

- **Rail Transport:**

   - Railways are the primary carriers, especially suitable for long-distance travel.

   - Unlike road transport, railways can traverse hilly terrain more effectively.

   - They have the advantage of transporting large numbers of passengers and heavy loads over long distances.

   - Train travel is often considered more comfortable than bus travel.

   - India boasts an extensive railway network, covering approximately 63,000 kilometres of tracks.

   - Approximately 7,800 trains transport around eleven million passengers daily in India.

   - India's railway network is the largest in Asia and the second-largest in the world.

   - Indian Railways play a crucial role in meeting the country's transport needs and promoting national integration.

   - Besides regular trains connecting various parts of the country, Indian Railways operates special luxury trains like the Palace on Wheels, Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, and Fairy Queen.

 

- **International Tourist Bureaus:**

   - These bureaus are located in key cities across India.

   - They issue reserved tickets to foreign tourists and non-resident Indians (NRIs) holding valid passports.

   - Payments for tickets can be made in US dollars, Pounds, Sterling, or Rupees against an Encashment Certificate.

   - International Tourist Bureaus also offer Indrail passes.

   - Indrail passes provide tourists with the flexibility to choose their travel destinations, schedules, and preferred trains within the pass's validity period.