Tourists

A tourist is an individual who travels to a destination other than their usual environment for recreation, business, or other purposes, staying temporarily rather than taking up permanent residence or long-term employment. The term is used in tourism statistics to distinguish short-term visitors from residents and longer-term migrants.

Tourism encompasses various forms, including domestic tourism (travel within one's own country), international tourism (travel to another country), and niche forms such as cultural, adventure, or ecotourism. Tourists may be inbound (visiting a country) or outbound (traveling from their country to another). Travel can be motivated by leisure, exploration, events, business, or visiting friends and relatives.

Tourism is a major economic activity, creating jobs, generating revenue, and supporting services such as accommodation, transport, and attractions. It can also strain resources and contribute to volatility due to seasonality and external shocks. Cultural exchange fosters understanding but may lead to cultural commodification or displacement in some destinations.

Organizations such as the World Tourism Organization define tourism statistics and provide guidelines for sustainable tourism. Governments and tourism boards manage visa policies, marketing, infrastructure, and safety. Technology enables online bookings, reviews, and digital itineraries, shaping traveler behavior. Increasing emphasis on sustainability promotes responsible travel and community involvement.