tourisms

Tourism is the activities of people traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business, or other purposes. The term “tourisms” is uncommon in standard usage; when it appears, it may refer to distinct tourism sectors or types rather than to tourism as a single integrated industry.

The modern tourism industry expanded in the 19th century with the development of railways and steamship travel and accelerated with commercial air travel. Today it encompasses transport, accommodation, attractions, and supporting services, and it interacts with local economies, cultures, and environments in complex ways.

Types of tourism include cultural and heritage tourism, ecotourism, adventure tourism, culinary tourism, medical tourism, religious tourism, and business or MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and events). Tourism patterns can be domestic or international, mass or niche, and driven by seasonality, events, or marketing.

Economic and social impacts include employment, foreign exchange earnings, and infrastructure development, but can also lead to overdependence on travel demand, rising costs for residents, and pressures on housing, transport, and services. Sustainable tourism seeks to minimize negative effects while enhancing benefits for host communities.

Governance and data are coordinated by national authorities and international bodies such as the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Measurement relies on visitor arrivals, tourism receipts, and related indicators. Ongoing challenges include overtourism, environmental degradation, cultural commodification, and ensuring benefits reach local residents.