Category: Tourism

Impact of Transportation on the Tourism Industry

The Chicago convention that contains the basic rules for civil aviation signed by Franklin Roosevelt in December 1944 emphasized that the future development of air transport will create good relationship between nations and people around the world.

Air transport has become the foundation of the entire global society in terms of communication, economic, and social progress. Air travel created wealth and disclosed their potential for trade and tourism aspects. One of the cheapest ways to travel is using roads.

In Britain, road transport for tourists is fulfilled by coaches, car hire, and taxis. Britain has route coaches that operate in different destinations and has the largest road transport network for its tourists. London buses provide the urban network being a convenient way to get around the city offering sight seeing opportunity (Page & Lumsdon, 2004, p. 115).

The role in tourism and travel industry

A study done by the Oxford Economic Forecasting on Air Transport Action Group, describes the main benefits of air transport and the way it should be sustainable. This Air Transport Action Group is a combination of independent companies and organizations in the air transport industry whose main objective is to improve infrastructure in a responsible way.

Its global members include “airlines, airports, navigation services, travel, tourism institutes, manufacturers, ground transportation, and communication providers” (Parsch 2011, p. 64). The aviation sector and the civil aerospace are the main sectors of air transport industry.

Development of Air transport in tourism

Some factors have contributed to the rapid growth of this industry because of “increased demand for trade and leisure purposes”. Increased competition and efficiency have reduced airfares and improved trade in politically stable countries thereby promoting tourism.

Trade done globally through purchases of goods and services such as energy sector, has grown due to the purchase of aircraft fuel as well as employment through aviation fuel (Wickham 2001, p. 106). IT in computer systems or people who manufacture retail goods are also a way of job creation.

As the industry is in demand, its contribution to the global economy is great because the GDP per employer is higher. Employees are well trained, skilled and experienced. The industry carries out intensive research and development (Honey, 1999, p. 301).

Countries are able to take part in the global market by means of providing way to the most important markets and promoting globalization of production. Countries can specialize in activities that are beneficial to their economies and trade with countries producing other goods and services.

Improved air transport also enlarges the market in which companies operate enabling them to exploit other economies. It promotes competition to companies thereby boosting their efficiency. It improves efficiency in industries as it is easier and faster to transport and deliver goods (Cater & Lowman, 1994, p. 611).

Air travel is a trade facilitator that enables markets to get products to the market more quickly to their customers. According to North American Free Trade Agreement, many trade barriers have been removed. As most air cargos consist of manufactured products, world trade has improved because of air transport.

Survey on financial and businesspersons indicate that they do consider air travel when meeting with their clients face-to-face, which is essential for winning new businesses and enhancing client relationships (Mowforth & Munt, 1998, p. 234).

The contribution of air travel on tourism has improved because tourism depends fully on air transport to bring visitors. On the other hand, the transport industry depends on tourism to generate demand for its services.

For example, Costa Rica is the second largest source of foreign exchange that provides resources needed for maintaining its national parks (Holden 2000, p.16).

Britain has numerous historical monuments, royal palaces and the world’s largest museums visited by tourists in the whole world. Air transport is the main means in the tourism industry.

London has the greatest attraction sites in the world and the most visited modern art gallery, the Tate modern. The Brecon Beacon National Park in Whales is the most beautiful site in UK. It comprises ancient castles, market towns, and the craggy peaks (Cater & Lowman 1994, p. 400).

Jet aircrafts

Recent modernized aircrafts are responsible for reducing environmental impacts by curbing the reduction of noise during takeoff and landing. They use less fuel and thus emission of carbon monoxide emitted in the air is reduced. By improving air travel management, the use of fuel has reduced.

Transport is the main contributor to the advancement of modern society (Thomson & Martin 2010, p. 218). The introduction of jet airlines has become essential to economic progress.

The demand of air transport has increased rapidly on the global economy promoting efficiency, movement of people, exchange of currencies, goods, and services in markets around the entire world (Page & Lumsdon 2004, p. 310).

The development of jet aircrafts has led to the emergence of a new jet called the easy jet, which will create 120 jobs at Manchester airport. According to the Chief Executive officer Carolyn Mc Call, the aircraft will increase the efficiency of air transport in Manchester. This will benefit businesses and increase the number of business travelers (Fennell 2003, p. 345).

The advancement and growth in the global airline industry have encouraged major technological innovation. In 1950, jet aircrafts were introduced for commercial use in the airline industry.

Later in the 1970s, wide body jumbo jets were introduced in the Global airline industry (Button 1993, p. 95). There are two types of fighter aircrafts, namely, Rocket powered fighters and jet powered fighters. Aircraft jets have been classified by generation for historical purposes.

The first generation fighter jets were used in the First World War while jets of the second generation were used in the Korean War. The third and the fourth generations of aircrafts were characterized by sophisticated avionics and weapon systems developed by Colonel John Boyd.

The fifth generation jet fighters introduced in 2005 were advanced due to the new technology and integrated systems of weapons (Mowforth & Munt 1998, p. 63).

Air jets on the budget of the United States will cost around $150 for constructing its flyaway unit and sharing the cost among the eight country partners will be at risk.

The United States Air Force budget in 2010 projects the cost to be from 150 to 200 millions over the planned production of F-35, and as the production cost increases there is likely to be a delay.

The delay may lead to a fighter gap in which other countries and America will have less jets fighters for their use. The last sixth generation jet fighter is programmed to be introduced in the United States Air force and Navy by 2025-2030.

Road transport in tourism

A sit has already been mentioned, one of the cheapest ways to travel is by the using surface transportation. During the Olympic Games and paralytics games in 2012, London has boasted numerous visitors and tourists from all over the world via air travel, however, the city is admired and shown using surface types of transport, in other words, road transport.

Visiting Britain helps in promoting tourism partners for the entire Britain and the world. Both international and domestic visitors use air and road transport to improve tourism in Britain. Travel mole is the largest global online community that gives information on travel and tourism industry (Fennell 2003, p. 511).

Transport and road transport services depend on the demand generated by other economic activities. Transportation cost is a component of a transaction that is important in market sand businesses. According to Culpan (1987, p. 546), modes for transportation and management are the major link with the international tourism.

Development and accessibility in transportation have eased travelling. Road Transportation helps tourists to get to their desired destinations and areas; it also has an impact on tourism experience as stated by Page and Lumsdon (2004, p. 72).

This explains the reason people visit a particular place. Thus, there appears the Increased demand for road transport that is being used by tourists.

The improvement and maintaining the road network have increased the number of regional and international visitors, tutoring a destination has led to the fact that the number of quality roads has been increased. The increased growth in tourism sector will see the creation of new tourist products (Cater & Lowman, 1994, p. 420).

Economic Benefits

Air travel provides the only international network in tourism and the global business world wide as it facilitates economic growth. It has boosted the tourism industry because about 40% of the tourists travel by air (Wisner, Tan & Leong 2008, p. 56).

It has created direct and indirect employment both in services and the manufacturing of aircraft systems, purchasing of goods and services from industries and companies and improved social welfare through spending on industry employees.

Through the direct and indirect job creation globally, air travel has created tourism jobs thereby improving the growth of the economy.

Compared to other sectors, “air transport as a capital-intensive business has a high productivity per worker” (Holden 2000, p. 204). Air transport uses resources efficiently as compared to any other industry in Britain.

The advantage of air travel compared to road and rail is that it covers the whole of its infrastructure cost. Modern aircrafts use less fuel compared to the modern vehicles in the market therefore making it more efficient in fuel consumption.

Using air transport is the only means of transport in far away places which are used in assisting social services. It improves the living standards of people by eliminating poverty. Air travel broadens one’s horizons by numerous and endless destinations all over the world thus connecting people, in particular, friends, relatives, etc.

By means of air transport, sustainable development is attained by facilitating trade and tourism in generating economic growth. In emergency cases such as earthquakes, floods and disastrous wars, air transport delivers humanitarian aid relief and ensures quick medical supplies when needed ( Mowforth & Munt 1998, p. 290).

Conclusion

The development of air transport and road transport on trade and tourism has promoted economic and social progress and contributed to the advancement of modern day society by providing reliable information to governments in order to take responsibility in making decisions.

“Air travel has also responded to the growing demand for mobility by investing in safety and security improvements, new technology and business” ( Mowforth & Munt 1998, p. 292).

List of References

Button, K 1993, Transport: The environment and economic policy, Edward Elgar, New York.

Cater, E & Lowman, G 1994, Ecotourism: A sustainable option? Wiley J & Sons, London.

Fennell, D 2003, Ecotourism: An introduction, Routledge, London.

Holden, A. 2000, Environment and tourism, Routledge, New York.

Honey, M. 1999, Ecotourism and sustainable development: Who owns paradise? Island Press, Washington.

Mowforth, M & Munt, I 1998, Tourism and sustainability: new tourism in this world, Routledge, New York.

Page, S & Lumsdon, L 2004, Tourism and transport: Issues and agenda for the new millennium, Boston: Elsevier

Parsch, A 2011, Non-Standard DOD Aircraft Designations Mitchell’s Theory: Air & Space Power Course, College of Aerospace Doctrine, New York.

Stephen, T 2011, XCLUSIVE: U.S. Air Force combat fleet’s true operational costs revealed, The Dew Line, London.

Thomson, J & Martin, F 2010, Strategic management, (6 edn.), Cengage Learning EMEA, London.

Wickham, PA 2001, Strategic entrepreneurship: A decision making approach to new venture creation and management, Pearson Education, London.

Wisner, J, Tan, K & Leong, G 2008, Principles of supply chain management: A balanced approach, Cengage Learning, New York.

Executive Summary

Canberra is the Capital city of Australia. The city has grown to become an economic hub of the country. With numerous revenue streams that earn the city revenue and contribute to the entire economy of the country, Canberra has leaped into the next level of economic growth. One of the major revenues generating activities of Canberra is tourism.

Tourism has grown to become the largest service sector export for the country accounting for over 2.5% of the Australia’s GDP. Over the last decade, the number of tourists visiting the country has fallen raising a major concern about the future viability of tourism as an income generating activity. This fall in the number of tourists has been recorded for both domestic and international tourists.

The Australian Capital Tourism has hitherto commissioned a research project on visits to Australia by international tourists. The aim of the research if to have a better understanding of the needs, wants, and satisfaction levels of international tourists.

This report studies the various aspects that may be contributing to the decline in the number of tourists visiting the tourist attraction sites in the country. The study uses exploratory and descriptive research methods to come up with the research findings. It uses questionnaires and surveys as the data collection methods.

The report also recommends other further research on the areas and recommends the use of other information methods so as to enhance extensive understanding of the field under study. It finally gives the conclusions and recommendation on the topic under study.

Introduction

This research proposal seeks to establish the means and ways of improving the tourism sector in the Australia Capital Territory and the Entire Australia Economy. The information collection methods that will be used in this research are both descriptive and explanatory methods. The management problem, research problem, and research design will be discussed in this proposal.

Canberra is the Capital city of Australia. It is a city that has many economic benefits to the Australian people. Being strategically located it is an economic hub for Australia as it has numerous revenue streams one of which is tourism. Canberra’s tourism attraction comes from the various sites it possesses. The city has many attraction sites in areas of culture, history, indigenous heritage, politics, art, and sport flora and fauna. The city also has exciting offers for leisure tourists such as stylish Restaurants, bars and shops.

Background to the Research

Tourism constitutes Australia’s highest service export earner contributing about 3% of the country’s total GDP. This coupled with other benefits such as employment makes it a significant factor in the economic growth of the country. As such there is a dire need by the government of Australia to continue improving the tourism related services. This will ensure that the sector continues to grow both as a revenue earner and a source of employment.

Over the recent past, tourism sector in Australia has recorded significant declines in revenues. This is due to the decrease in both the international tourists who prefer other countries over Australia. It has also been contributed by a decline in local tourism where Australians prefer touring other countries other than their own domestic sites. This has caused the sector to lose a significant market share in the economy and attention has been shifted slowly by slowly to other macroeconomic factors.

This has compelled the government of Australia to look for means and ways of restoring the glory that the sector bore as well as ensuring that it is on a positive growth path again. This report is done on the tourism sector of the Australian Capital Territory and is to be used by the government to determine ways and means of improving the tourism sectors as a source of revenue for the country.

The report will therefore use various information collection methods to come up with extensive recommendations on the best ways of ensuring that the tourism sector regains its lost glory

The management Problem

The management problem in this study deals with the steps that the government should take to ensure that the tourism sector in Australia is restored to its glory days. The sector has been on a decline path for the last one and half decades and this poses a major threat to the economy of the Australian people.

The problem is therefore “What promotional strategies should be employed to ensure that the tourism sector regains its market share in the Australian Economy?” this management problem is aimed at identifying the best promotional techniques that the government of Australia in conjunction with the Australian Capital Territory can employ to ensure that tourist attraction sites appeal to both domestic and international tourists.

The government therefore needs to come up with marketing techniques and/ or improve the qualities of the attraction sites that will ensure that the sites are appealing to the tourists.

The research problem and the key objectives

There are several research problems in this research proposal. These include: Has the government neglected tourism as an important source of revenue? Has the tourism sector’s decline been caused by the stiff competition from other upcoming tourist attractions sites in the world? Has the tourism sector in Australia reached the normal product death? Does the government have a leading role to play in ensuring that the tourism regains its market share? What is the future of tourism in Australia in the wake of stiff competition by other countries?

For the above research problem, the following key objectives of the study are discussed.

• To determine whether tourism is still an important revenue stream in Australia
• To establish the cause of the decline in the number of domestic tourists
• To establish the cause of the decline in the number of international tourists
• To establish the reasons why Australians prefer touring other countries to Australia
• To establish the role of government in reinventing tourism as a major source of revenue
• To determine the future position of tourism as a revenue stream for the government

Research Design Recommended for the new research Project

Type of Research

There are various types of research that are used. The main types of research methods are exploratory and descriptive. Exploratory method helps to extensively identify the issues being studied. It also enhances the quality of results finding. Descriptive research helps in identifying the attributes of phenomena (Malhotra, Hall, Shaw, & Oppenheim, 2004, p. 188).

Exploratory research is normally administered in areas where in-depth and critical knowledge is necessary. It is usually used in areas where the problem is not lucidly identified. This type of research puts into consideration all aspects that are relevant to a study and reviews secondary sources of information (Richard & Colin, 2004, p. 98). These include the existing literature, or qualitative data such as surveys, discussions, interviews and other method that ensure that extensive information is collected on the topic (Marian, 2010, p. 59).

This type of information source has various drawbacks. These include the extensive search of secondary information often leads to conflicting feedback. This acts as a setback to the reliability of the literature review since previous recorded researches that were done often give conflicting information (Romaniuk, 2001, p. 91). This leads to analysis paralysis.

Descriptive research is the type of research that describes characteristics of a certain population or the aspect being studied. This study usually answers questions like why, how, which etc. It is a type of research method that gathers information about a certain phenomena and usually results in factual and accurate findings (George, 2002, p 109).

The shortcomings of this descriptive method come in that it does not give the reasons behind happenings of situations. It is therefore relevant only when describing the attributes that do not require an in-depth analysis of the situations (Michael & Saren, 2010, p. 138).

Type of information

Based on the objectives of the study, the following problems are to be solved by the information collected.

• The tourism trends in the 21^st Century
• The changes in preferences of the tourists
• In what ways do the tourist attraction sites attract domestic and international tourists
• What are the possible ways of ensuring that the tourists tastes and preferences are catered for by the different tourists attraction sites

Market knowledge is the most important source of information for any person who intends to acquire an extensive knowledge of the different factors that affect product consumption (Berger, 1997, p. 113).

As such an in-depth knowledge of tourism market is necessary to ensure that the various factors affecting the industry are well understood by the strategy formulators. An analysis of both the internal and external environment ensures that an organization formulates strategies give the organization competitive excellence (Frederick, 2001, p 88).

Internal environment analysis highlights the strengths and weaknesses that are present in the organization (Barney, 1991, p. 120). This helps it in choosing the courses of action that maximize its use of the strengths as well as minimize potential losses from the weaknesses the organization possesses. External analysis usually enlightens the organization on the opportunities available in the remote market as well as the threats posed by the external environmental factors (Barney, 1991, p. 113).

The information used will therefore feature both the external and the internal factors that influence the choice of the tourists on where to visit. It will also cover the appropriateness of such factors in formulating promotional strategies. The primary data will include:

• The concept of tourism
  1. Attraction sites
  2. Costs associated with these sites
  3. The value of the attraction sites
• International tourism
  1. The concept of competition among countries
  2. The suitability of attraction sites on international tourists
  3. The value proposition
• Other subjective aspects of preference
• Government influence on the tourism
• The marketability of tourism as an products and brand
• The success stories by other countries
• The respondents’ demographic information such as age sex etc.
• Other information that may be relevant to the country

Method of Data Collection

Use of exploratory method

Exploratory information is needed in areas where the study being carried lacks a clear problem statement. Exploratory method therefore presents comparative information where the researcher is able to view the aspects being studied. The secondary information used in exploratory ensures that the previous studies carried out on similar and related topics is considered (Henry, 2007, p. 140).

This method is therefore useful in comparing the different studies and researches that have been done by the various researchers in the area of tourism. The information is useful in formulating a research problem and research objectives.

The current situation in the tourism sector in Australia is characterized by less government involvement in promotion, lesser corporate partnership in marketing tourist destinations in the country and subsequent decline in the number of domestic and international tourists. The sector is therefore experiencing the decline stage and this is a major cause of alarm. Several Jobs have already been lost in the tourism sector and the government revenues that come from tourism have declined.

The necessary information will therefore be sources for different groups of persons who are tourism stakeholders. These include the government officials working in the tourism sector. These employees will give a general view of the state of affairs of the tourism sector in terms of quantitative as well as qualitative measures. Information will also be solicited from various groups of tourists. These will provide qualitative information on the suitability of the attraction sites as well as the value attached to the various tourism products in Canberra.

The use of descriptive analysis

Descriptive method involves the collection of information that affects the demographic aspects of a phenomenon (Christ, 2011, p. 89). This type of method is useful when answering such questions as when, where, how, what etc. In the above research proposal descriptive method will be employed where knowledge will be sought on such questions as what are the tourist attraction sites.

What are the most common sports based tourist activities? Why do most of the Australians prefer travelling outside their country to touring Australia? How do the sites in other countries compare with the Australian attraction sites?

This method will require the use of questionnaire that will be administered to various groups of tourist depending on age, race and other demographic factors. This information is aimed at providing accurate knowledge on the preferences of the various tourists both Australians and non Australians. The descriptive method will be useful and very important since if form the basis of strategy formulation with regard to the market opportunities and strengths.

The use of questionnaire will present various challenges to the respondent. The framing of the question denies the respondent to give information which he deems fit. This is because they are usually leading and may prevent the respondent from fully expressing his/ her views as they are.

This reduces the reliability of the questionnaires as a source of information. Questionnaires will be given to international tourists arriving at all the tourist sites, they will also be given to partnered travel and booking agents for these tourism sites. They will also be posted to the internet through the use of the various international research organizations such as Harris Poll.

Physical surveys will also be carried at various tourist attraction sites. These surveys are aimed at acquiring a real time feedback from the tourists on the suitability and the quality of the services offered. Physical surveys are very accurate methods of information since they capture the respondents’ facial expression and other non verbal communication media (Levine, 1995, p. 97). They are also reliable since there is an assurance of feedback. The researcher is able to get as much information as possible.

The weaknesses of this method come in that the respondents who are reached are only those who are currently touring the country. Information about past tourism experiences more so by those who were dissatisfied with the quality of service being offered may not be obtained. This is the physical survey will deal with the current respondent and ignore the past experiences. This may give inaccurate information since visitors who came in the past do not have the opportunity of airing their views.

Sampling Technique

Target population

The target population of this study comprises of variable people from different walks of life. With regards to the research objectives of the study the target population of the research design will address the domestic and international tourists. The target population of the research is therefore domestic and international tourists who visit or who used to visit Australia tourist attraction sites.

The tourists will be studied differently and their views will be analyzed differently depending on their demographic attributes such as age, race etc. this will be of great help in identifying different tastes and preferences possessed by different people. It will also help in identifying the promotion strategy applicable to different persons.

The target group will consist of different people such as Young Black Americans, Europeans, Africans and Asians. The two information methods will therefore be useful carrying out the research since it results in in-depth, qualitative and quantitative data. The government will be able to easily categorize these different groups so as to provide incentives on the most preferable areas.

The Young Americans usually prefer leisure tourism as well as physical features such as mountains and the terrain associated. They are also keen on sports tourism and will engage in such activities as mountain bike riding and bungee jumping. Europeans like museums artwork and history. They are therefore keen on visiting areas there they will find archeological and historical sites. Africans are keen on education tourism and are attracted to such sites as libraries, movies and entertainment.

Sampling frame

The research will survey various groups of people such as Americans, Asians, Africans, Asians and Australia natives. The surveys will be administered to the individuals and will be framed according to their tastes and preferences as discussed in the previous topic. This sampling technique chosen will be useful in analyzing the different types of tourists visiting the various attraction sites.

Preparing Data for Analysis

The various data collection methods will be presented with the data in them. The available options are either to keep the data in its physical form or to convert the data into computer data files. The latter would enable easy data analysis more so when using the computer data analysis software. The data will be analyzed using the available computer software as these enable accurate data information. The computer software also ensures a systematic and an organized presentation of information from the collected data.

Conclusion and Recommendations

This research work has used both descriptive and exploratory methods. These research methods usually give more detailed research finding as well as better and more qualitative report.

The use of exploratory method in doing research ensures that the research finding exhaustively covers the problem statement and even where there statement is not clear the use of extensive secondary materials ensure that the topic is fully covered. Descriptive method on the other hand gives a demographical explanation of the different phenomena under study.

There is however other research methods which are not included in this research proposal. These include such methods as casual research methods. Future researches on this field can consider using these other research methods. This is because of the shortcomings that characterize the exploratory and descriptive research methods. Future scholars should therefore extend the field of research to include all the methods which are not used in this research.

In conclusion, the research objective is to identify the problem facing tourism industry in Australia and to establish ways in which the government of Australia can promote the tourism sector to ensure that it returns to its glory days. In looking at the six main objectives of the study, the research introduces the different stages of the research starting with the problem statement identification.

The study goes on to propose the information methods to be used in the study and the data analysis method to be employed. The proposal concludes with analyzing the target group for the study and the various attributes that characterize these different groups.

Market research is a useful tool of communication since it enables persons to understand the various aspects of the environment and the change in behaviors. It is therefore an important activity for every organization since the modern day environment presents a highly volatile operating condition.

Research is therefore an important pre-requisite to any strategy formulation. It also eliminates uncertainty through providing relevant information for the decision makers. There is however limitations associated with all types of researches and since it is impossible to do perfect research, persons should never scare away from carrying out research.

Individual reflections

Personal research objectives included to acquire basic knowledge on the various factors that determine people’s choice and tastes and preferences.

This has been extensively achieved as an understanding of the demographic factors and their influence on the various tastes and preferences have been understood. Throughout the process of writing this research report, much knowledge has been acquired and research expertise has been sharpened.

Other objectives achieved include proper understanding of the research methods and subsequent applicability of these research methods. The applicability of Exploratory and descriptive research methods has also been learnt and extensive understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of these methods has been acquired. Other areas of personal learning include the various demographic attributes of the persons who visit Australia and the variance of their tastes and preferences.

References

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One of the most prominent controversies, associated with the realities of a Globalized/post-industrial living, is the rise of a so-called ‘medical tourism’, which is being commonly defined as, “The movement of patients across international borders for medical care that is more expensive or less accessible at home” (Connell, 2011, p. 260).

The reason why this type of tourism continues to spark public controversies is that it is believed to contribute to the process of Medicare becoming increasingly commercialized, which in turn presupposes the lessened adequacy of healthcare services, provided to those patients that rely on Medicare’s public sector.

Moreover, medical tourism is being commonly referred to as such that contributes to the rise of global socio-economic inequalities, as it results in making high quality healthcare services less accessible to ordinary citizens in the countries where this tourism thrives.

As it was pointed out by Godwin (2004), “Since the care offered by medical corporations (that specialize in medical tourism) is far beyond the reach of even the domestic middle class, leave alone the poor, the beneficiaries can only be the ‘creamy layer’ of the economy which will further worsen the health inequality in the country” (p. 3983).

At the same time, however, the very concept of medical tourism appears being thoroughly consistent with the qualitative essence of Globalization, as a process concerned with the free-market economies’ functioning becoming ever more efficient, which in turn results in more and more people growing to perceive their ability to enjoy healthiness in terms of a commercial commodity.

Nowadays, medical tourism is being increasingly associated with a so-called ‘transplant tourism’, which is being commonly defined as the process of Western patients travelling internationally (most commonly, to the countries of Second and Third World), in order to undergo transplant-surgeries in privately owned clinics.

There are two major contributing factors to the rise of this particular form of medical tourism: the fact that in Western countries, there is an acute shortage of donor-organs, and the fact that undergoing transplant-surgeries abroad often proves to be substantially less expensive.

Just as it is being the case with medical tourism, transplant tourism continues to spark public controversies, due to the fact that, as of today, the concept of transplant tourism is often perceived as being synonymous to the notion of ‘organ trafficking’. According to Budiani-Saberi and Delmonico (2008), “Transplant Tourism has become a connotation for organ trafficking.

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), recently defined transplant tourism as ‘the purchase of a transplant organ abroad that includes access to an organ while bypassing laws, rules, or processes of any or all countries involved’” (p. 926).

Nevertheless, given the fact that, as time goes on, more and more Western patients express their willingness to become ‘transplant tourists’, it would be only logical, on our part, to discuss transplant tourism in terms of a discursively ambivalent concept, the practical manifestations of which are being equally capable of emanating ‘negativity’, on the one hand, and ‘positivity’, on the other. In my paper, I will aim to substantiate the validity of this thesis at length.

Introduction/Thesis statement

It is now being estimated that in 2007, at least 100.000 Britons sought health care services abroad. The number of Americans that traveled abroad for the same purpose in the year 2008 amounted to 750.000 – while outside of U.S., they have spent on medicinal services close to $2 billion (Reisman, 2010).

According to the same author, “Exports of health services worldwide doubled between 1997 and 2003. They increased worldwide ten times faster than foreign earnings from tourism and five times faster than global exports of services” (p. 3).

Essentially the same dynamics are being observed within the context of what accounts for the qualitative essence of today’s organ-transplantation practices.

For example, according to the statistical information, provided by World Health Organization (WHO), throughout 2005 there have been 66.000 kidneys, 21.000 livers and 6000 hearts transplanted from donors to organ-recipients worldwide, with 10% of transplantation surgeries having been performed on Western ‘transplant tourists’.

By the year 2010, the percentage of transplantation-surgeries, performed on ‘transplant tourists’, has doubled. (Biggins et al., 2009). As of today, the most popular transplant tourism’s destinations are: Israel, China, India, Phillipines and Pakistan.

In its turn, this can be explained by the fact that in these countries, the functioning of national Medicare systems is being largely deregulated. In its turn, this created a number of prerequisites for the privatized sectors of these systems to grow progressively larger.

And, as it is being the case with the owners of just about any commercial enterprise, the owners of private transplantation-clinics in these countries are being naturally predisposed to regard their businesses’ foremost operational task as such that is being solely concerned with providing them with the opportunity to generate financial profits.

Such an opportunity naturally derives out of the fact that, in the earlier mentioned countries people’s lives continue to drop in value, due to the factor of overpopulation and the factor of the quality of local living standards continuing to diminish.

In its turn, this creates objective preconditions for impoverished locals to consider selling their internal organs for money.

After all, as it was mentioned earlier, the very realities of today’s living naturally cause people to regard their healthiness as nothing short of a commercial commodity, which can be purchased or sold, “Proponents of commercial markets in organ transplants argue that poor individuals should be free to sell kidneys.

They should be ‘at liberty’ to choose between the risks associated with selling a kidney and the risks of keeping two kidneys while remaining impoverished” (Turner, 2009, p. 193).

Given the fact that ordinary citizens (especially the ones from the rural regions) in such countries as China, India, Pakistan or Philippines rarely make more than $5-$10 per day, it makes a perfectly logical sense for them to think about selling their internal organs for money.

After having been paid $15.000 for allowing its kidney to be surgically removed, a particular impoverished Pakistani, for example, will not only have enough money to enjoy a comparative prosperity until the end of its life, but he or she will also be able to provide a financial assistance to its numerous children and relatives.

On their part, Western ‘transplant patients’ are able to benefit from the availability of donor-organs in the Third World countries, as well. This is because this availability naturally causes prices on donor-organs to remain comparatively affordable, “For example, hip replacement surgery, which normally costs around $25,000 in the United States, can be performed for $5,000 in India.

Heart valve replacement surgery, which costs around $200,000 in the United States, costs $10,000 in India” (Sengupta, 2011, p. 312). Nevertheless, it would be quite inappropriate to refer to the rise of transplant tourism as solely the consequence of global inequalities between people in the Second/Third World, on the one hand, and people in the First World, on the other, continuing to become ever more acute.

Apparently, one of the major contributing factor to the growing popularity of transplant tourism is the fact that, as compared to what it is being the case in Western countries, which during the course of last few decades were growing increasingly Socialist, in countries that are being considered the most attractive transplant tourism’s destinations (with the exception China), there are simply no armies of useless but resource-consuming ‘medicinal bureaucrats’ in existence.

In its turn, this significantly simplifies the bureaucratic procedures, concerned with potential donors providing a legal consent for the removal of their internal organs and with surgeons obtaining an official ‘go ahead’ to perform the transplantation surgery on a particular Western patient.

For example, while in their own countries, Western patients are being often required to wait for transplants to become available for as long as 5-10 years. However, while in such countries as China, India or Philippines, they can well expect the required transplantation surgery to be performed on them within a matter of few months, or even weeks (Rhodes & Schiano, 2010).

Thus, there can be few doubts to the fact that, as it was implied in the Introduction, the emergence of transplant tourism was dialectically predetermined by the very course of a historical progress. And, as it has always been the case with just about every newly emerged socio-cultural practice, transplant tourism can be simultaneously discussed in both: positive and negative lights.

Analytical part

The provided earlier background information, in regards to transplant tourism and in regards to what can be considered the foremost motivational factors, behind the process of Western patients deciding in favor of undergoing transplantation surgeries abroad, allows me to outline transplant tourism’s positive and negative aspects as follows:

Background information

A. Transplant tourism allows Western middle-class citizens to save considerably on applying for a number of different transplantation operations. For example, in Philippines, Western patients are able to acquire the ‘new kidney’ for as low as $25.000 (Turner, 2009).

Comparing to what are the average prices for kidney transplantation operations in Western countries, this price can be well defined as laughable.

B. Transplant tourism often provides Western patients with the only life-saving opportunity, because by becoming ‘transplant tourists’, they no longer need to wait years and years, before much needed organ-transplantation surgeries are being performed on them.

Given the fact that in Western countries it would prove rather impossible to find individuals who would be willing to trade their internal organs for money, and also the fact that procedures, concerned with obtaining organ-donating consents from the relatives of deceased people are being utterly bureaucratized, it comes as not a particular surprise that many citizens on organ-waiting lists die, even before they get a chance to have transplantation surgeries performed on them.

Yet, for as long as Western patients have the required amount of cash in their pockets, they now have the opportunity to undergo such surgeries in the countries of Third/Second world, without having to deal a number of time-consuming bureaucratic procedures.

Positive/Negative aspects of transplant tourism

A. While abroad, for the purpose of undergoing transplantation surgeries, Western ‘transplant tourists’ can never be 100% guaranteed that donor-organs, which will be transplanted in them, were obtained legally/ethically.

The validity of this statement becomes especially self-evident, in regards to what appear to be the realities of transplant tourism in such countries as China, Philippines or Pakistan, for example. As it was noted by Saberi & Delmonico (2008), “In 2006, 11 000 transplants were performed in China from executed prisoners” (p. 927).

This, of course, represents a big issue for particularly sensitive Western patients. Yet, as practice shows, such their sensitivity disappears rather quickly, once they are being faced with the option of whether to remain moral but dead, or immoral but alive.

B. In countries with traditionally poor hygienic standards, such as Pakistan, China and Philippines, Western patients face the increased risk of having donor-organs rejected by their immune system. The factor of uncleanliness exposes local organ-donors to the particularly acute health-risk, as well.

As it was pointed out by Turner (2009), “When (transplantation) operations are conducted in unhygienic facilities… and when organ sellers return to polluted, hazardous social environments, removal of a kidney puts individuals at increased risk of health problems” (p.194).

In its turn, this explains why Western ‘transplant tourists’ are not being utterly thrilled about the prospect of having to undergo complex surgeries in countries, where the majority of locals do not think that there might be anything wrong about them living in their own filth, in quite literal sense of this word.

Conclusion

One of the most peculiar characteristics of transplant tourism is the fact that, even though that well-established Western physicians tend to refer to it in strongly negative terms, largely on the account of what they perceive as such tourism’s ‘ethical inappropriateness’, it nevertheless becomes progressively popular with more and more Western patients.

This simply could not be otherwise, because as it was mentioned earlier, the functioning of Western Medicare systems has long ago ceased being thoroughly reflective of patients’ actual needs. This is why many of them simply do not have any other choice but to travel abroad, even when such a simple procedure as the replacement of the tooth’s filling is being concerned.

Apparently, it matters very little for Western patients where their health-related problems would be taken care of, for as long as get what they need quickly and for the reasonable price.

We can say that the growing popularity of transplant tourism provides yet additional confirmation to the conceptual validity of the foremost theoretical principle, upon which the free-market economy’s proper functioning is being based – for as long as there is a demand, there will always be a proposition.

Therefore, it will only be logical, on my part, to conclude this paper by suggesting that, in the very near future transplant tourism will attain a fully legitimate discursive status. I believe that this conclusion is being thoroughly consistent with the paper’s initial thesis.

References

Biggins, S. et al. (2009). Transplant tourism to China: The impact on domestic patient-care decisions. Clinical Transplantation. 23 (6), 831-838.

Budiani-Saberi, B. & Delmonico, F. (2008). Organ trafficking and transplant tourism: A commentary on the global realities. American Journal of Transplantation, 8, 925-929.

Connell, J. (2011). A new inequality? Privatization, urban bias, migration and medical tourism. Asia Pacific Viewpoint, 52 (3), 260-271.

Godwin, S. (2004). Medical tourism: Subsidizing the rich. Economic and Political Weekly, 39 (36), 3981-3983.

Rhodes, R. & Schiano, D. (2010). The dilemma and reality of transplant tourism: An ethical perspective for liver transplant programs. Liver Transplantation, 16 (2), 113-117.

Reisman, D. (2010). Health tourism: Social welfare through international trade. Northampton, U.S. Edward Elgar Publishing.

Sengupta, A. (2011). Medical tourism: Reverse subsidy for the elite. Signs: Journal of Women in Culture & Society, 36 (2), 312-319.

Turner, L. (2009). Commercial organ transplantation in the Philippines. Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics Journal. 18 (2), 192-196.

Introduction

The tourism and hospitality is one of the fastest growing industries in Australia. The industry takes a larger portion of the economy and plays a vital role in the Australian economy. The tourism industry not only operates nationally but also fully participates in the global market economy. The industry is currently recording massive improvements especially due to the recovery in the world economy from the disastrous economic meltdown that was previously.

The Victoria tourism and hospitality industry stands out to be the second largest in the whole of Australia with flourishing businesses ranging from restaurants, cafes, hotel services, bars, pubs, clubs as well as well furnished apartments. The industry is famous for its high quality and customer friendly facilities that provide customers with the desired comfort (Kayler, 1995, p. 178).

Factors influencing the growth of the industry

The global economic recovery has led to the tremendous growth of the tourism and hospitality industry in Victoria. Victoria is also renowned for its quality restaurants and hospitality facilities that highly attract more tourists and visitors.

In addition to this, the industry incorporates a number of organizations and institutions that provide important information to their potential visitors and thereby making known worldwide the quality services provided in Victoria. Such organizations include the Baking Industry Association of Victoria and Artisan Bakers Association among others (Bergin and Jago 1999, p. 342).

Also the foreign investment regulations within the state are moderate and highly promote investment from the foreigners and therefore this has attracted many investments from both the foreign and local investors.

In addition to the above factors, tourism in Victoria has also been influenced primarily the reduction in the oil prices, which led to the subsequent reduction in airline surcharges and therefore leading to decrease in the airfares charges, especially regarding longer routes. This as a result has led to the increase in the number of tourists visiting the state.

Generally, Australia has improved its aviation facilities in the recent past, especially routes linking to the international countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. The increased capacity has translated into more visitors and tourists visiting the country.

SWOT Analysis of the Victoria state

As outlined before, the tourism and hospitality industry in Victoria is the second largest in Australia and the most famous because of the quality services offered by their ultra-modern facilities. The industry has a workforce of more than 115000 workers who accounts for a good percentage of 4.4% of the total labor force within Victoria State.

In Victoria State, hospitality and tourism incorporates a number of businesses whose services are tailored toward meeting the consumer’s ever increasing demands (Bergin and Jago 1999, p. 342).

They include accommodation facilities, restaurants, café, bars and pubs, catering services, facilities for hosting meetings and events both for business purposes, managing, and coordinating tour operations, providing relevant information to tourists, conducting tour guiding, managing holiday parks, conducting and organizing cultural tourism, casinos, and caravan park operations.

The state of Victoria is within the southern region of Australia that is widely known both locally and internationally as a key tourism destination. Therefore, the strategic location of the state is an added advantage to them (Kayler, 1995, p. 178).

The state has the aging population as their working population and due to inadequate skilled personnel within the young population, it means that most of the old staff is retained and this might lead to inefficiency and low output. There is need for skilled and experienced personnel within the young population to replace the old aging population

Target market

The target market for all the products and services mentioned above is mainly from both the international and the local tourists. For instance, a fall in the growth of tourism will translate into a reduction in the growth of the hospitality industry. This is due to the fact tourists, both local and international, play a major role in the utilization and consumption of the products and services offered in the hospitality industry.

Therefore, the hospitality industry is highly dependent on tourism. On the other hand, tourism also relies on the hospitality industry to some degree. For instance, high quality and attractive services offered in the hospitality industry can be used as an attraction to tourists who will visit these facilities in order to enjoy the wonderful services offered by them (Bergin and Jago 1999, p. 342).

Victoria State covers only three percent of the Australia’s landmass and has a population of approximately 5.13 million people. In addition, almost half of the entire population is below 35 years and therefore forming a good market for the tourism and hospitality industry. The presence of a young population is a good sign that the industry shall continue flourishing due to the available of the domestic market.

Victoria also receives a larger number of international tourists who account for 25% of the all tourists visiting Australia. For instance, the state received 1.5 million tourists last year. Therefore, apart from the domestic tourists from within Australia, Victoria also receives a relatively large number of tourists. Most of their international tourists come from North America, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, Singapore, and New Zealand.

Pricing strategies

Victoria has gone a step farther by embracing the online booking provisions in their tourism industry. The proposed system that is already in use is a national booking platform for both the international and the local tourists. The system is known as the Tourism Exchange Australia (TXA) that contains a large database of all the products and services provided by the Australian tourism and hospitality industry.

All the businesses listed by the Australian Tourism and Data Warehouse (ATDW) will have their products and services accessible online and booking made possible because the data warehouse contains all the vital information including the prices for the services and products. All the locally developed booking systems are also linked to this exchange system that enables online selling of the services and products and therefore increasing the sales for the industry.

The system also supports online establishment of agreements between the tourism industry and the prospective buyer and therefore making it more effective. Operators of the respective businesses can access the database and update their prices for the various services and products (Kayler, 1995, p. 178).

Promotional practices

Domestically, the government and other institutions related to the industry have come up with strategies that are aimed at publicizing the industry to the Australian population. Some of the ways embraced by the state to advertise its tourism industry include play Melbourne campaign that advertises Melbourne as a city with hidden treasures.

This has been achieved through a number of ways including using local media and press and media. This is extended to the online websites and is meant to encourage local tourists from all over Australia to dare visit Melbourne and discover the treasures that lies within the city.

This is part of the larger Victoria jigsaw campaign meant to promote Victoria’s tourism and hospitality industry locally, within the Australian population and also reach to the international community. Also there are committees put in place to facilitate and coordinate regional campaigns. The publicity campaigns are aimed at branding all the cities and towns within Victoria as unique places worth visiting (Stabb, 1999, p. 123).

On the international scale, various campaigns and strategies have been formulated to see to it that the State’s tourism and hospitality industry is well known to the international community. There is an international marketing division, Tourism Victoria, which works closely with the other stakeholders within the industry in marketing Victoria to the international countries.

The division formulates winning strategies to market the industry in international countries. It has offices in other countries that fall within their target markets. This is to help in easier coordination of advertising activities in those countries and keep in touch with the potential customers (Kayler, 1995, p. 178).

Tourism Victoria works handy with Tourism Australia, Australian Airlines, major industry stakeholders in liaison with the Victorian tourism industry in a bid to sell the industry to the prospective tourists and visitors. The international marketing strategies are carried out in two ways including the trade and consumer strategies.

Both strategies are meant to assisting in attaining an increase in familiarity by the potential consumers on the tourism and hospitality facilities within Victoria. They are also targeted at branding Victoria as the leading tourist destination as far arts and cultures, events, recreation, catering, and wine services are concerned (Rose, 1991, p. 412).

In consumer marketing, Tourism Victoria has a stronger influence on all activities conducted by Tourism Australia in the foreign markets. In some instances, the division runs autonomous brand campaigns to advertise Victoria to the international community.

There is a website tailored to provide relevant information to those aspiring to visit Victoria as well as advertising it as the main destination point for all tourism activities. There are both written content and video on the website to provide the required information. The information available is in different languages so as to reach as many people as possible.

In trade marketing, Tourism Victoria works in partnership with Australian based inbound tour operators by organizing and coordinating workshops and trainings to familiarize them with available tourism opportunities within Victoria. The division also organizes trade fairs and exhibitions to their prospective consumers both nationally and internationally.

Tourism Australia also in partnership with local and international airlines carries out cooperative promotions for publicizing Victoria’s tourism potential to the international countries. This is done with most of the airlines and distribution networks and therefore widening their market by creating awareness among the potential consumers globally (Kotler, Bowen and Makens 2010, p. 441).

An official website managed by the state provides a variety of information to the potential visitors concerning the tourism facilities in Victoria State. There is a provision on the same website under tourism for the local tour operators and stakeholders in the hospitality industry to showcase their businesses on the website and display the range of products and services they offer. This form of online marketing is meant to cover as many businesses as possible and advertise them to the both local and international communities.

Conclusion and recommendations

From the information in the sections above, it is true that the tourism industry in Victoria has well established framework to support their activities at the same time ensure sustainability in the industry. The state has played a significant role in ensuring that Victoria continues not to be only Australia’s tourism destination point but also the world’s most attractive tourist site.

However, there are still shortcomings that need to be correction to ensure long term improvement and growth in the sector (Kayler, 1995, p. 178). Even though the industry seems to be on an upward trend, more is required for the industry to start operating at its optimum and therefore maximize on the available opportunities in the industry.

Both the government and the various stakeholders in the industry have a role to play in ensuring success of the industry. Therefore, the following are some of the recommendations that need consideration in order o reap maximally from the tourism and hospitality industry and make Victoria a tourism haven in the whole of Australia and the world at large.

The accreditation system put in place to certify operators in the industry needs improvement. The current system of accreditation has not had any impact on the service delivery to the final consumers. Some of the operators, even after receiving accreditation, are still rendering poor services to their customers.

A good number of businesses have untrained personnel who do not meet the requirements for the industry. Therefore, the government should consider such factors as employee skills and knowledge as well as availability of quality facilities before accrediting the operators. Also continued vetting should be thorough to ensure that accredited operators maintain the required standards of service provision to their customers (Bergin and Jago 1999, p. 342).

The government in partnership with the respective shareholders should build a competitive digital capability that will ensure Victoria competes favorably with the other international competitors. This can be achieved by incorporating more competent personnel in managing online marketing and coming up with ways of expanding the service so as to cover the entire global market.

The government should encourage investment into the tourism industry by offering more incentives and subsidies that will attract both the local and foreign investors into the industry. This will facilitate the expansion of the industry and therefore fasten its growth.

The government can also partner with the other stakeholders in developing the infrastructure, especially the transport and communication network within the state so as to open Victoria to the rest of the world. The various tourism sites should have a good transport system (Bergin and Jago 1999, p. 342).

The government should encourage domestic tourism and give more attention to the training of personnel to work in the industry. Regular workshops and trainings help sharpen the skills of those working in the industry and inform them of the current trends and emerging issues in the global market.

The state should work handy with the other states to eliminate cut-throat competition, especially on the international market. It will also give them a common bargaining front and therefore lead to reduction in trade barriers imposed on them by the international countries (Baum and Hagen 1999, p. 299).

Reference List

Baum, T. and Hagen, L., 1999. Responses to Seasonality: the Experiences of Peripheral Destinations. International Journal of Tourism Research, 1(5), pp. 299-312.

Bergin, S. and Jago, L.J., 1999. Accreditation of Adventure Tour Operators: The Consumer Perspective 1999 CAUTHE National Research Conference. Adelaide Bureau of Tourism Research.

Kayler, T.W., 1995. Tourism Accreditation and Quality Assurance: Strategic Directions for Victoria. Tourism Victoria.

Kotler, P., Bowen, T.J. and Makens, C.J., 2010. Marketing for hospitality and tourism. 5th ed. Sydney: culinary and hospitality industry publication services.

Rose, R., 1991. What is Lesson-drawing? Glasgow: Centre for the Study of Public Policy.

Stabb, C., 1999. Review of Membership for Involvement in Cooperative Promotions Funded by Tourism Victoria. Tourism Victoria.

Introduction

Cruise tourism business is one of the most vibrant and greatest emergent constituent of vacation industry. Since beginning of eighties, the business has had a standard annual expansion rate of 7.9% for every year in Caribbean. Likewise, over the previous few years, Belize has make out harbor calls skyrocket by surplus of 100%.

Actually, this increase rate ought to be seen as a remarkable raise as the industry keep on enticing more lines toward Belize. This improvement in port calls is enormous for Belize; nevertheless, social and environmental issues have to be put into deliberation when enacting any guiding principle which would make possible development of the Cruise tourism industry.

In point of fact, the ambition is to capitalize on the profit gained from the cruise industry and all together supporting the natural possessions of Belize. Moreover, Belize City is the main central region, congregating more than 40% of all cruise customers who come on shore. This paper analyzes basic components and guiding principles of Cruise tourism industry.

Background

According to Beggs & Ross, Cruise tourism experienced a time of sharp turn down during the beginning of the 90’s, as a consequence of comparatively high taxes, restricted infrastructural amenities, and service (2008). Essentially, Cruise ship traffic started to revitalize at the end of 90’s.

From that time, the company has kept on making extra special and reliable growth. All together, Cruise tourism was perceived with blended outlook by both private and public segments of the business as an interfering and unsuited sub-segment of Belize’s tourism commerce (Lafferty & Fossen, 2004).

Together with this in psyche, little endeavor was attempted to present an indispensable provision for its expansion and progress. In opposition to such background and in vision of its optimistic expansion in addition to future development, there was necessity for a guiding principle in Cruise tourism at Belize.

Likewise, this strategy was focused on tackling management programs. As well as, Cruise Company has been prepared in deliberation with the entire stakeholders and association in trade.

According to Duval:

The Belize City council, Ministry of National Security, Belize Tourism Board, and the Cruise Ship Industry Association mutually with all additional associations concerned in tourism products would team up with each other to offer a secure and enjoyable atmosphere for all cruise customers (2004).

Policy Consideration

Busby & Gibson viewed that the government regards Cruise tourism to be a constituent of the national’s general tourism segment, corresponding to the continuity of tourism segment through which it contributes to imperative synergies (2010).

Seeing that, the supervision of its progress and promotion would be directed by general national tourism guiding principle. Furthermore, aspiration of this strategy is to guarantee that the Cruise tourism segment develops into competitive with supplementary targets and inputs. Jafari explained that:

The accomplishment of the broad-spectrum tourism advances intention of Belize; that is, the production of foreign exchange, revenues, employment and trade opportunities, that are favorable to its appropriate development and progress.

Belize Tourism Board and Tourism Ministry are proficient civic department conscientious for the institution, administration and realization of the cruise tourism strategies and guiding principles (2000).

Environmental concerns

In devising and realizing cruise tourism strategy, the government is aware of environmental matters regarding Cruise tourism business in Belizean regional waters (Dowling, 2006). Truly, “these take account of: fastening of cruise ships; off-ship leisure events of cruise customers; function and safeguarding events on board ships waste supervision and clearance; and increasing effects of all ships accredited to function in Belize” (Dowling, 2006).

The government, for that reason, stipulates the circumstances to offer fulfillment and supervision of the Cruise tourism business (Hall & Tucker, 2004). In fact, the government has to affirm guarantee that the Belize eco-cultural tourism artifacts are advanced and multi-desirable.

Main cruise Lines

While it is a moment to begin arrangement for Cruise holiday, the initial attempt to make is to choose a cruise line (Douglas & Douglas, 2004). Furthermore, when doing research, a tourist may be amazed to discover that there are not as numerous lines as he or she thought. Actually, a tourist may spot an extensive record of cruise lines, although the truth is that great set of cruise lines regularly are components of same corporation.

For instance, a customer intends to select a reserve Holland America line at the expense of Carnival Cruise line. However, both brands are cruise lines of the same company. In fact, according to Gayle & Apostolopoulos, there are only peak three cruise corporations that actually comprise an overall of eighteen various cruise lines (2002).

The following refers a simplification of the pinnacle three cruise lines along with variety of which they descend into

Carnival Corporation

Smith & Rosaleen viewed that Carnival Cruise Corporation is an American-British cruise which was established by Arson Ted in 1972 using a single ship vessel (2003). At present, the corporation has developed into Carnival Corporation & plc. Actually, Carnival is a single company of eleven cruise ship lines which are component of the corporation.

In point of fact, Carnival has the leading fleet of eleven cruise brands with twenty-one vessels, although in overall, the company has 45 vessels. Lafferty & Fossen expressed that:

The cruise lines which compose gigantic Carnival Corporation are: Cunard line; Sea Bourn cruise (North America); Holland America lines; ocean village (UK); Carnival Cruise lines; P & O cruises (budget); Ibercocruceros (Spain); AIDA(Germany); Costa Cruises (southern Europe); P & O Cruises (Australia) and Princess Cruises (Australia) (2004).

Royal Caribbean Company

The basis of Cruise line of this corporation was Royal Caribbean Company. Truly, this line is the second leading firm following Carnival Corporation, which has 42 vessels. Moreover, it is a Norwegian / United States company founded at Florida, in Miami.

The original Royal Caribbean cruise line was established in 1968 while the company was established in 1997. Besides that, “the company comprise of: CDF crisieres de France; Pullmantur cruise (Spain); Royal Caribbean international; Azamara club cruises and celebrity lines” (Hall & Tucker, 2004).

The Star Cruises

Star cruise corporation is the third leading cruise line. In fact, Star Cruise is the head principal company in the Pacific-Asia cruise market (Beggs & Ross, 2008). In fact, Star Cruise is approved to increase the cruise markets in this area. Furthermore, Star Cruises possess 22 vessels. According to Douglas & Douglas:

Indeed, Star cruises possess a high-quality share of the active tourists marketing from Asia, Europe and North America. Star cruises investments comprise: Star cruises; Norwegian cruse lines America, Cruises ferries and Norwegian cruise lines (2004).

Carnival Corporation & PLC

Douglas & Douglas viewed that Carnival Corporation & PLC is one of the leading holiday and worldwide Cruise firm in the world (2004). The corporation brands, in fact, encompass the most acquainted cruise lines in United Kingdom, North America and Holland America.

In addition, the corporation provides extensive variety of vacation and holiday artifacts to consumers’ foundation which is generally diverse in issues of vacation-time, language and cultural preferences. “Carnival Corporation, as well possesses Tour firm which accompany their Cruise business process: Holland America princesses Alaska tours in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon” (Dowling, 2006).

Really, Carnival firm entices about 8.5 million tourists yearly. In fact, the corporation’s extensive artifacts provide their tourists with outstanding holiday experience at excellent ideals.

Furthermore, the corporation’s achievement in offering worthy cruise holidays experiences has prepared Carnival Company to be the largest profitable corporation in the holiday tour industry. Douglas & Douglas said that:

Carnival’s stock report is daily listed on both the London stock exchange and on the New York stock exchange under symbol CCL. Carnival is the only business in the world to be incorporated in both the FTSE 100 index in United Kingdom and the S&P 500 index in United States (2004).

Dowling expressed that:

Headquarters in London, England, and Miami, Florida, U, S.A, Carnival firm manages a navy of 101 vessels, in the company of another 10 vessels programmed for each delivery concerning the current time and 2016, March. With just about 200,000 tourists and 70, 000 ferryboard workers, there are supplementary 270, 000 people under maritime aboard, therefore carnival company would navy conveniently at any specified time (2006).

Carnival Community Relations

Carnival Corporation is an international entity whose cruise brand head-offices exist in the Germany, America, Italy, Australia, and United Kingdom (Dowling, 2006). Indeed, Carnival Company perceives that it has conscientiousness to boost the society in which it work for, as well as its head-offices localities.

In addition, the company promote various homeports and call docks vacationed by its cruise lines. In the course of their operation, Carnival firm sustain and promote amazing endeavor to its workers whose participation in an extensive diversity of courses, offer donations, services, and gifts to enormous group of charitable institutions.

In fact, Carnival Corporation is commissioned to carry out excellent holiday experiences through the finest recognized cruise brands which provide diversity of various living-standards and resources. The company services provide exceptional significance that is unsurpassed experience at marine and on ground.

Beggs & Ross viewed that from workers’ contribution and turn-over donation, services projects to hard cash as well as Cruise contribution and inventive charity, Carnival company endeavors to impact diversity, both nationwide and globally (2008).

Additionally, Carnival’s endeavor has made the company firmer, thus the company has an amazing delight among its workers. Undeniably, Carnival Company has sustained achievement of its workers. Furthermore, the company keeps on with its endeavor to construct enhanced and well-built societies in the entire the world.

Carnival Security, Health and Environmental Measures

Carnival Company is committed to protect security and health factors of their customers, tourists, workers as well as all other persons operating on behalf of the business. The company safeguards environment and marine atmosphere in which its ships navigate (Dowling, 2006).

Definitely, the company wholly abides by lawful and legislative requirements associated to health, environment, and safety measures through their company events. Furthermore, the company also allocates health, environment and safety measures issues as equivalent concern as other vital business affairs.

These projects are incorporated in annual budget for the cooperation. Safety measures are curved out and every employee is given a responsibility of observing and practicing the same on a daily basis. In addition, these requirements are incorporated in company policy and regulations.

Company Governance

The company is actually devoted to promote governance practice and strategies. Indeed, the company has made certain that investors and various stakeholders’ welfares are recognized in a considerate and autonomous way (Douglas & Douglas, 2004).

In addition, sound standards of the company governance are significant to acquire and maintenance of shareholders’ expectation. In fact, the firm’s governance principles are fundamentals that protect dignity from other providers, the society in which the corporation serves, civic officials, and people in general.

Conclusion

Cruise tourism management is actually ambitious to enhance number of cruise vessel calls and customers in a convenient way. Cruise Company is also focus to increase return’s gained from Cruise business engagement.

Really, the corporation intends to boost general gains from Cruise tourism through building and reinforcing inter-segmental relationship. Such intention is vital since Cruise brands sources required provisions of services and goods from Belize dealers.

Moreover, the firm plans to develop incorporation competence of the nation through increasing presented and new customer’s attractions. Actually, Belize Tourism Board endeavors to promote programs attractions in order to advance the tourism artifacts.

Furthermore, the company also discovers other docks and appropriate anchoring locations on the Belize coast. Indeed, the company intends to build supplementary cruise vessels for other regions of the country. In addition, the corporation executes and increases suitable support agenda which efficiently renovate cruise customers to long-stay tourists.

References

Beggs, B., & Ross, C. M. (2008). A Comparison of Students and Practitioners Perspectives of the Travel and Tourism Internship. Journal of Hospitality, Leisure, Sports and Tourism Education, 7, 1-10.

Busby, G, D., & Gibson, P. (2010). Tourism and Hospitality Internship Experiences Oversea: a British Perspective. Journal of Hospitality, Leisure, Sports and Tourism Education, 9, 19-34.

Douglas, N., & Douglas, N. (2004). The Cruise Experience: Global and Regional Experiences in Cruising. Sydney, NSW: Pearson Education.

Dowling, R. K. (Ed.) (2006). Cruise Ship Tourism. Oxford: CABI Publishing.

Duval, D.T. (2004). Tourism in the Caribbean: Trends, Development, Prospects. New York: Routledge.

Gayle, D., & Apostolopoulos, Y. (2002). Island Tourism and Sustainable Development: Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean Experiences. Westport: Praeger.

Hall, M., & Tucker, H. (2004). Tourism and Post Colonialism: Contested Discourse, Identities and Representations. New York: Routledge.

Jafari, J. (2000). Encyclopedia of Tourism. London: Routledge.

Lafferty, G., & Fossen, V. (2004). Tourism in Australia and Hawaii: Historical Perspectives. The Australian Journal of Politics and History, 50, 4-7.

Smith, D., & Rosaleen, M. (2003). The ethics of Tourism Development. New York: Routledge.

Executive Summary

This report provides fully-detailed daily itineraries for two sets of couples who are planning to go for a one-week tour in Venice, Italy. The first set of couple, branded Couple A, is planning for a budget honeymoon tour which is based on romance and indulgence while the second set, Couple B, is focused on a luxury holiday at the Italian city.

This work is in a report format and therefore, it features three main sections which include introduction, body and finally the conclusion. The introduction offers a brief description of the report, thus offering an in-depth focus to the main theme or subject.

The second section consists of three main sections which include a brief profile of Venice City, the itinerary Plan for Couple A and the itinerary Plan for Couple B. The report begins with a brief profile of the city of Venice together with its surrounding regions.

Itinerary plan for Couple A comes next on the agenda, whereby various excursions within the city of Venice are proposed to the couples, in respect to their holiday needs and plans. Next is the itinerary for Couple B, also designed in accordance to the couple’s needs. Finally, there is the conclusion part, which sums up the main points of the report.

Introduction

This is a travel plan and market segmentation report which revolves around one week’s holiday in Venice for two sets of couples. The first set of couple consists of a newly-married pair which is planning to spend their honeymoon in the famous Italian city, starting from 30^th August, this year.

The other set consists of the bride’s parents, who have also expressed their interest for a holiday in the same region for the same time and for the same duration.

While Couple A would be seeking for romance and indulgence, whereby they would want to remain attached to one another and enjoy each other’s company to thevast pleasures of Italy, Couple B is more focused on a luxurious holiday that would mainly consist of adventure and exploration of the city’s rich historical and cultural aspects.

Considering this guidance, it is obviously clear that the two couples have different tastes and expectations for the holiday. This report offers a planned schedule for each of the two couples, in the course of their one-week stay in Venice.

The itineraries would basically feature only the ground components of the holiday, including all organised excursions and accommodation for the entire period. To set pace for the report, the paper begins with a brief profile of Venice City, which is the region targeted for the holiday.

Profile of Venice, Italy

Venice, which is situated on a group of over one hundred islands that are separated by canals and connected by bridges, is arguably one of the most famous cities in Italy (Thorne 2001). The city, which is the capital of Veneto region, is said to harbour a relatively high population of people, compared to other surrounding regions.

Among other aspects, the capital is popular for various aspects, such as its rich historical background, cultural tastes, and unique physical and natural features. All these features have served as crucial aspects of attraction to the Italian city (Norwich 2003). As it would be observed, tourism has been a major sector of the city’s economical profile for many years.

It is reputed to be one of the most visited places globally, where about 50,000 tourists are observed to visit the city in a single day, from various parts of the world. The Venetian capital is also defined by strong political and economical structures. The fact that the city controls a vast sea-empire has made it a major trading centre, thus emerging as one of the wealthiest cities in the European region.

The Venetian capital is well served by a network of various forms of transportation such as waterways, railways and airways (Denis and Pazzaglia 1999). Public transportation within the city consists of land transportation and canal travel, which constitutes of buses and vaporettis, respectively.

All these modes of transportation do play a significant role in enhancing the mobility for the many local and foreign tourists who tour the famous city on a regular basis, from various parts of the world.

Itinerary Plan for Couple A

This newly married couple is seeking for romantic satisfactions in their honeymoon, and Venice can guarantee them the best that their money could get them. Depending on the holiday needs for this couple, their one week stay in the Italian romantic heartland would include exclusive excursions to some of the best zones in the region, as well as accommodations befitting their standards and budget.

Things such meals would be offered at the travelers’ expense, unless they decide it is part of an arranged excursion. Honeymoon makes the basis for this holiday, and for that reason, the couple must be prepared for a lack of choice in the vast romantic options offered by this captivating island (Constantinides 2006).

Checking in at Venice: Thursday 30^th Aug

Couple A can decide to stay in Reiter, a fairly cheap 2-star hotel situated in Venice Lido and which is only about 10-minute ride from the heart of Venice by a water bus.

Nearness to strategic markets and bus stations makes this one of the most convenient accommodation hubs in this part of Italy, and this comes as an added advantage to the many visitors who end up there (Capatti and Montanari 2003) Reiter is indeed one of the most secure and enchanting accommodation zones in Italy, that offers reasonable accommodation prices for travelers.

One night’s accommodation in the hotel would range between 50 and 70 Euros for an en-suite double room. This is fairly cheap, compared to other hotels situated within easy reach of major zones of the city, some of which can go up to hundreds of Euros for a single night’s accommodation.

The hotel is furnished with modern hospitality facilities, including spacious twin and double rooms that can guarantee all sorts of modern comforts to the clients. From the comfort of your hotel room, you can be certain to enjoy the many benefits that can be associated with staying away from the centre of the city, such as avoiding tourist crowds, which are common near the heart of the big city of Venice.

This hotel would be friendly to those clients who be anticipating to save money while on a tour at Venice. The travelling convenience provided by the hotel will guarantee you a better value of savings.

Day 1 of the tour: Friday 31^st Aug

You can start your tour by visiting some of the places in the island that are considered to be romantic for couples in honeymoon. Perhaps, you can walk out to sightsee some of the city’s historic buildings and monuments. This adventure can also familiarize you with the social atmosphere of the city, as well as the way of life followed by its varied habitants.

However, the outcome of your adventures will entirely depend on the nature of process that you apply on your excursions for the day (Formica and Uysal 1996). You can also decide to pay a visit to some of the famous historical sites in the region. Here, you will be able to see the magnificence of architectural designs, as they have been used in some buildings.

In the course of your adventure, you can be assured of coming across attractive plazas such as La Pizzeria, where you can enjoy a cheap meal of pizza and risotto, in a more romantic atmosphere. The long trek along the magnificent streets of this part of Venice is not only economical, but it would help you discover the beauty and the mysteries of the romantic city.

Days 2 and 3 of the tour: Saturday and Sunday (1^st and 2^nd of September, respectively)

There are many exciting ways through which people can enjoy themselves while in Italy. However, nothing really can surpass a hip weekend in Venice city. You may be on a budget, but you can at least spoil yourselves in just what you would like to avoid most while in the island. You really deserve a contemporary romantic atmosphere for the weekend, and there are several places where you can be able to enjoy life to the fullest.

Try to start the weekend with a sightseeing adventure, probably in a traditional lagoon boat, which is much cheaper, compared to a tour on a cruise or helicopter. You can limit this to half-day’s outing, since there are many romantic things in store for both of you, and you don’t have all the time on your side.

Utilise the afternoon visiting some modern art galleries in the island such as the famous ‘Art Biennale’ among other exhibition centres. You can place an early booking in a trendy bar or even one of the smart restaurants in the city, for your romantic weekend evening together. Hilton Skyline Bar could be a special zone for something really special, such as a honeymoon.

From the panoramic top of the club, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the magnificent city of Venice. Here, you can also enjoy a treat of some expensive cocktail till late night, from where you can decide either to rent a room or to transcend the night with style, in some nightclub.

You can return to Venice Lido first thing on Sunday morning and end up at Lido Beach for something impressive, such as a thirty-minute ferry ride on the waters. You can go back to Hotel Reiter at around noon, from where you can take a big rest in the comfort of your hotel room.

Day 4 of the Tour: Monday 3^rd September

After a long romantic evening together in the hotel, you can wake up to a new day of adventure across the waters to Venice, where you can embark on a more romantic mission, such as an excursion along the canals.

This time, I would propose gondola ride through the canals, from where both of you can have a memorable romantic experience watching the tourists waving frantically in your direction, in the glimpse of their flashing cameras.

Venetian gondola rides are normally charged according to durations, whereby the official price is set to be 80 Euros for a 40-minute ride. Gondolas can carry up to a maximum of six people, but this does not compromise their unique romantic touch (Shoval and Raveh 2004).

You can consider choosing the evening as the most appropriate time for your gondola ride, since there are minimal gondola jams at this time of the day. Moreover, this would be the most convenient time you can make a brilliant choice of where you would like to visit, after having spent the rest of the day in other things, such as silent hand-in-hand strolls along souvenir stands and beauty stores.

Day 5 of the Tour: Tuesday 4^th September

You can spare this day to visit some of the favorite hotspots in Venice, where you can be certain to spend beautiful moments together as a couple. Physical exposure or evidence comes with many benefits to those travelers who are driven by the spirit of adventure.

You can start the morning by visiting the popular Rialto markets, situated alongside the massive Grand Canal. The markets are usually opened in the mornings, and it would therefore be wise for you to get there as early as possible, so that you don’t miss out some of your favourite stuffs. A wide array of goods and products, ranging from food stuffs to tourist merchandise, are traded in the market (Bernstein 2001).

Here, you can buy fresh flowers, among other romantic goodies and treats, for each other. You can retire to the hotel earlier for a big rest, or you can decide to have a more romantic stroll along the capital streets. Think of enjoying a stylish lunch together, in one of the cozy places around, such as Osteria Enoteca San Marco, before spending the afternoon experiencing the region.

Day 6 of the Tour: Wednesday 5^th September

After having spent a long day in Venice on the previous day, don’t even think of leaving the bed early. You can have breakfast on bed, and relax a bit in the comfort of each other in your hotel room, before embarking on another romantic excursion in the magnificent Venice City. Don’t be on a rush to get back to the hotel, but you can delay a bit in Venice, and get to see how the romantic city looks like at night.

There is no way you can imagine of a possible transport inconvenience, since ferry services between Lido and Venice operate on a twenty-four hour basis. Unlike other excursions, where you may have to spend time together with the other couple, you can make this one a grand moment for only the two of you. Be sure to spend a better part of your afternoon on the wooden bridge of Accademia, extending above the Grand Canal.

From this point, you can enjoy some of the city’s grandest scenes and views. Later in the evenings, you can visit the Lagoon shore in Castello or at Sant’Elena, from where you can try to capture a beautiful sunset (Carbognin, Teatini and Tosi 2004).

There are many hot spots in this region, just look for a place of your choice, possibly a less crowded sumptuously traditional palazzo, where you can share a romantic evening together, under the treat of tasty cuisines and local wine. Here, you can freely exchange your best stories in life until late night, from where you can take a twenty-minute ferry ride across the canal, to your hotel in Lido.

Day 7 of the Tour: Thursday 6^th September

Having spent a better part of time sightseeing some of the favorite hubs in Venice, you can now spare the last hours of your tour for the big comfort that comes with basking in the eternal glory of St. Mark’s Square or ‘the Pianzza’. St. Mark’s Square is one of the most significant tourist attractions in Europe, popular for its antique monuments, as well as other magnificent architectural structures (Howard and Quill 2002).

There is much to spend time on, in the one and only square of Venice, and you can be sure to be left spell-bound by the unique elegance of the place. This excursion meets the needs of two sets of couples, and therefore, they can spend time together in the famous square.

Itinerary Plan for Couple B

This is a couple with fewer demands, compared to the newly-married pair above. The elderly couple is mainly focused on nothing short of a luxurious holiday, and in the course of their one week stay in Venice, they would be busy exploring the history and culture of Venetians. Just like it would be in the case of Couple A, there’s more than enough that Venice could offer to this elderly couple, depending on their holiday needs.

Checking in at Venice: Thursday 30^th Aug

Even though it is apparent that you are both physically fit and strong, I would recommend a decently priced hotel near the heart of the city, for your accommodations for the entire period of your Venice tour. Apostoli Palace, which is located at Cannaregio, just a five-minute walking distance from the famous St. Mark’s Square, would guarantee you a treat worthy your plans and needs.

The facility is made to offer maximum comfort to all its clients in a stylish manner (Fotiadis 2007). A single night’s accommodation for a double room would range between 120 and 190 Euros in the hotel.

The most impressive feature for this place is its strategic location, which offers a reliable proximity to many significant zones within Venice, and this would come as an added advantage to the clients. More importantly, the hotel is served by a qualified staff, which is more attentive to the needs of their clients.

Day 1 of the tour: Friday 31^st Aug

It would be a perfect idea for the two of you to embark on an introductory tour of the city and its surroundings, either by bus or a rented car. The latter could be a bit expensive, even though it is the most convenient for your mission, and the one befitting your standards.

Later on, you can cross over to the nearest Lido Island where great adventure awaits. Here, you can treat yourself on a moderately-expensive late lunch in the company of your daughter and son-in-law, before retiring back to the hotel later in the evening.

Day 2: Saturday 1^st September

You can utilise the weekend in a useful manner, by visiting several historical sites upon which the city’s origins are based. Make sure to wake up early and prepare for a long boat ride along the Venice lagoon. Right from the lagoon, you will be able to catch wonderful sceneries of a natural environment that exceeds far beyond the island of Venice.

The island of lagoon is certain to reveal a strong history of the entire region, through a number of visible features which include; settlements along the lagoon, ancient monasteries, and fortifications, among other significant cultural aspects (Montanari and Muscar 1995). This historical and cultural tour would include a visit to strategic destinations in the region, such as Torcello, Altino, Burano, and Mazzorbo.

Day 3: Sunday 2^nd September

You may not be in a mood to wake up early this day, following the arduous excursion of the previous day. In that case, you can enjoy your luxury sleep until midmorning, before you can rise up for some leisure or recreational activity offered by the hotel.

Later on, after taking your lunch, you can take a brief stroll to the nearby markets for some simple shopping. You can buy fresh local food stuffs or fruits to take back with you at the hotel. Make sure to retire to bed early, to prepare for your next big excursion the following day.

Day 4 of the Tour: Monday 3^rd September

Today, you can embark on a mission to visit some of the major historical places in Venice. I would recommend that you start by visiting major historical monuments and other significant building structures in the city. Some of the most strategic structures worthy visiting would include; Fondaco dei Turchi, the Rialto Bridge, Palazzo Ducale, Ca’ Rezzonico, and Ca’ d’Oro.

You can spare sometime in the afternoon, to visit the boatyard at San Trovaso and see the magnificent artwork of gondolas. As it would be observed, these structures are some of the famous cultural symbols associated with the Venetian culture.

Later in the evening, you can join your children for a romantic ride along the canals in a lagoon. You can probably have an early dinner together in one of the plazas along the canals, before parting for the night.

Day 5 of the Tour: Tuesday 4^th September

A visit to the Rialto markets, where you can be certain to learn a lot about the cultural tastes of the Venice people can be a perfect idea for the day. The big market, which is situated along the Grand Canal, is a popular commercial hub in Venice (Logan and Martines 1972). Here, you can be sure to come across a wide range of products that depict the varied cultural tastes of the Venetians.

Day 6 of the Tour: Wednesday 5^th September

There’s no way you can leave Venice without paying a visit to at least one of the several museums within (Russo 2001). These museums are divided into city regions and would include; Peggy Guggenheim Museum, Arsenale, Correr Museum, Academy, and the Museum of Oriental Art.

The museums express a great deal of the city’s rich cultural tastes. More importantly, the museums also express varied cultural aspects, and therefore, it would be worth visiting all of them, if time allows.

Day 7 of the Tour: Thursday 6^th September

You would have traversed the entire city of Venice by now, but your errand in the enchanting region can’t be complete if you have not paid a visit to the St. Mark’s Square, which is only a stone’s throw away from your hotel.

This is one of the magnificent zones in the city, from where you can catch a glimpse of the authentic historical facets of the entire region (Davis and Marvin 2004).

Being viewed as the heart of the city, the square has always been the first stand, for the many tourists who’d be visiting Venice on a regular basis. Together with your daughter and son-in-law, you can spend some beautiful moments in this square of elegant manifestation, just before saying ‘Good bye’ to Venice City.

Conclusion

A good travel itinerary to any wonderful place comes with a timely planning and perfect research of the place, depending on the interests of the travelers. However, only qualified travel agents who possess a sound knowledge of travel matters can offer reliable travel itineraries to their clients regarding any tour that they would be planning to take on any part of the world.

The two itineraries in this report, whose design has been based on a perfect understanding of Venice city, are certain to guarantee the couples a well-guided and enjoyable tour of Venice city. through the itineraries, this report has succeeded in revealing the idea of market segmentation whereby the 7Ps marketing mix are used to justify the choices of the excursions proposed for each of these couples.

Reference List

Bernstein, J 2001, Print culture and music in sixteenth-century Venice, Oxford University Press, New York.

Capatti, A & Montanari, M 2003, Italian cuisine: A cultural history, Columbia University Press, New York.

Carbognin, L, Teatini, P & Tosi, L 2004, ‘Eustacy and land subsidence in the Venice Lagoon at the beginning of the new millennium’, Journal of Marine Systems, vol. 51 no. 1, pp. 345-353.

Constantinides, E 2006, ‘The marketing mix revisited: Towards the 21st century marketing’, Journal of Marketing Management, vol. 22 no. 3-4, pp. 407-438.

Davis, R & Marvin, G 2004, Venice, the tourist maze: a cultural critique of the world’s most touristed city, University of California, AC, USA.

Denis, M & Pazzaglia, F 1999, ‘Spatial discourse and navigation: An analysis of route directions in the city of Venice’, Applied Cognitive Psychology, vol. 13 no. 2, pp. 145-174.

Formica, S & Uysal, M 1996, ‘The revitalization of Italy as a tourist destination’, Tourism Management, vol 17 no. 5, pp. 323-331.

Fotiadis, P 2007, A Pocketful of Luxury Italian Hotels, Images, Victoria.

Howard, D & Quill, S 2002, The architectural history of Venice, Yale University Press, United Kingdom.

Logan, O & Martines, L 1972, ‘Culture and society in Venice, 1470-1790: the Renaissance and its heritage’, History: Reviews of New Books, vol. 1 no. 2, pp. 35-36.

Montanari, A & Muscar, C 1995, ‘Evaluating tourist flows in historic cities: The case of Venice’,Tijdschrift Voor Economische En Sociale Geografie, vol. 86 no. 1, pp. 80-87.

Norwich, J 2003, A History of Venice, Penguin Publishing Group, New York.

Russo, A 2001, ‘Cultural Clusters and Tourism Development: the Challenge of Venice’, Culture: A Driving Force for Urban Tourism-Application of Experiences to Countries in Transition, vol. 18 no. 12, pp. 27-33.

Shoval, N & Raveh, A 2004, ‘Categorization of tourist attractions and the modeling of tourist cities: based on the co-plot method of multivariate analysis’, Tourism Management, vol. 25 no. 6, pp. 741-750.

Thorne, M 2001, Modern trains and splendid stations: architecture, design, and rail travel for the twenty-first century, Merrell Publishers, United Kingdom.

Executive summary

The two couples going on the Venetian excursion have different interests. It is important therefore that the trip sufficiently covers these interests. For this reason, the whole one week shall be made up of diversified excursions which shall accommodate the different interests. There will be different excursions which will include sightseeing as well as learning more about the heritage and the culture of the Venetian people.

Several service marketing strategies that shall be employed are also explained in this report. These strategies include product promotion as well as incorporating physical evidence in any information that is to be passed to the couples prior to their flight to Venice.

The honeymoon for couple A shall be a blend of romantic outings as well as party filled outings such as clubbing and going for dances. For couple B, the excursion will not involve noisy and very vigorous activities. Their excursion will give them a chance to explore the Venetian culture and history. They shall go to the museums as well as restaurants serving traditional food.

Apart from that there are some excursions that will allow both couples to meet and mingle with the Venetian people. All these activities are going to be fun filled and accord them a holiday to remember. The report shall include day by day activities that the couples shall go through.

The Venice Excursion Plan

Italy is a culture rich country. Apart from that it has several resorts that are both exotic and romantic. The First Couple is looking for a romantic setting that they can enjoy their honeymoon and serenity. Apart from that they are seeking to enjoy what Italy has to offer. They are young and therefore are on a budget. The second couple is a bit old. They are interested in the historical side of the city.

Among the 7p is the use of physical evidence (Hunt, 2007 p. 279). Prior to their flight, the tourists shall be treated to photography as well as videos shoeing the places that they should expect to visit once they get to Venice.

Apart from that the potential tourists shall be allowed to talk to other people who have been on some of these excursions. This is a way of marketing the services that shall be offered. A good marketing plan is one which entices the potential customer to really want to be part of the experience.

Therefore in the marketing, there is need to stress how the product (in this case the holiday and the honey) shall be one of a lifetime.

Personal promotion shall also be involved in the marketing of the product (Webster, 2005; Bambale, 2011). The two couples shall be given tour guides. The tour guides shall be carefully chosen.

Couple A shall have a young tour guide. While couple B shall be given an older tour guide. This is important as each tour guide shall be in the age brackets of the different couples. Through this, the tour guides shall be able to understand the needs of each couple.

The marketing strategy

The marketing strategy that shall be employed in this instance shall include process, physical evidence as well as people (Magnini, 2011 p. 149). Efficient and proper employment of these elements of the strategy shall have the effect of influencing the potential customer’s choice (Wang, 2011 p. 32).

The people that shall be involved in this instance shall include the tour guides. In order to gain confidence of the customers, they (the customers) shall be informed that the tour guides are people who are staying in Venice and have an apt knowledge as well as the history of the place.

Day One Thursday

Arrival at the hotels

Couple A shall stay at Hotel Al-Sole The cost per couple in this hotel is approximately ninety Euros per night. The choice of this hotel is influenced by the fact that it is a cosy and romantic place.

Its prices too are not expensive. Apart from that the choice is also dictated by the fact that the hotel is located near the cities and the nightlife is also lively in this area. Being young couple they might be interested in the night life that exists within the Venice city.

Couple B shall stay at Hotel Albarella. The hotel choice is influenced by the fact that this is an older couple and their interest is in the culture and history of the Venice city. Their hotel is also in a quiet place as it is assumed that the couple wouldn’t love a noisy place. That’s why the hotel chosen is one which is a little bit out of the city. Close to the hotel is a water way. The couple may be interested in water games such as fishing.

Being the arrival date, it is assumed that both couples will be tired and therefore rest is recommended for both couples. The camping ground shall be in the Fusina Tourist village. The serenity offered by this village is beautiful and it is strategically positioned to give a full view of the Venice City. The facilities here are normally accessible throughout the year and this means that it is a convenient place. The village lies close to Brenta River.

Cruises and sailing Excursion

Cruises sailing and water tours are also fun activities to be enjoyed in Venice. This is especially possible because of the many canals that exist in the place. Another reason why such activities are important to the couples is the fact that these are not easily available in where they come from.

The pictures of the canals as well as the fan sports that can be performed on them shall be sent to the couple prior to their flight. Again the promotion being carried out shall be dependent on the physical evidence that is offered (Michael & Al-Abdali, 2003 p. 623).

Apart from camping grounds, there are restaurants and supermarkets. The village is therefore self-sustaining as campers can easily get anything that they want.

The restaurant is a good place for mingling with other campers while the camp is best suited if a couple wants to keep aloof. The two couples will spend an evening in the restaurant. After that, they shall proceed to the camps where there is a bonfire and eventually they will retire to their tents.

In marketing this service, the promotion being portrayed is a kind which gives the customer a one stop shop (Goi, 2005 p. 5). In this case, the customers’ supply needs are covered within the village. The village is seen to be an umbrella offering all sorts of products (Morgan et al, 2003 p. 370).

Day Two: Friday

Camping in Fusina Tourist Village

There are several camping grounds in Venice. This shall be done jointly by both couples. The place offers an excellent and memorable experience. The village itself is renowned for its wide array of different types of activities which are carried out in the city.

The Fusina tourist village has been chosen because it offers a lot more apart from just camping. The couples will definitely find happiness here because there is a wide array of activities in the village. Apart from that it harbours, a lot of other tourists thereby making it a multi cultured small village. This creates a very fertile ground for social interactions.

Requirements for the camping shall be catered for separately. Below is a brief breakdown of the costs that shall be included in the camping. The most important shall Tents which shall be hired at a price less than 10 dollars. Three tents shall be hired. Two for the two couples and an extra tent for the tour guide. The tour guide shall also watch over the couples.

During camping the couples shall decide whether they want their tents to be close to each or apart. During the campaign, the couples have an option of mingling with other revelers on a camp site restaurant. They can go there if they want to meet other tourists. Alternatively, they may decide to have a serene camp with a bonfire at the camping site.

Camping Cost breakdown

Day Three: Saturday

A visit to Albarella Beach

This is an eight kilometer beach in Venice. It is along the and therefore quite accessible. Couple A will visit this place because it offers enough privacy and can therefore be a wonderful place for their honeymoon. There is also the Albarella Island which is within a nature reserve.

It therefore offers. The island is famous for harbouring over two million trees and therefore a very beautiful place especially for those who want to enjoy the sumptuous natural beauty. Again there is need to understand the customer (Michael, 2006 p. 13). The word Albarella is said to mean the Poplar Tree.

The island is suitable for couple A because it is only accessible to those living in that hotel. For this reason, it shall offer a quiet and nice privacy for the two couples who just want to enjoy each other’s company.

During the walk to the beach the couple shall be treated to a very wide array of different species of tree that have grown along the road. The couple shall also view the beautiful beach that exists at the Albarella.

Cost Breakdown

Day Four: Sunday

In the morning there shall be a joint breakfast between the two couples. This shall aim at giving them an opportunity to discuss with each other their experiences in Italy. After the breakfast, the two couples shall then head to the church. Couple A will get this chance to go to church and offer their gratitude to God. Couple B, who loves culture, will get this as an opportunity to further learn the religious culture of the Italian People.

Church is a strong part of the Italian culture. The churches are normally built in ancient Roman designs. Inside the church there are paintings and carvings which will definitely be of interest to couple B. The best church to go to while in Venice is the Saint Mark’s Cathedral.

This church is well endowed with great architectural design as well as history. It is actually believed that the body of Saint Mark was buried in that church. The domes of this have been inspired by Byzaminte architecture. There are five domes in the church which represent the magistrates’ chambers.

In the afternoon, the two couples shall meet for lunch together. The lunch is to be taken in the hotel. This being a Sunday, the two couples will then part ways in the afternoon. Couple A will visit the Grand Canal. This is a large throughway in Venice. Here the couple can have a ride in the water as they tour the Grand Canal. They will also get to see the Great Bridge from the waters.

At night, they couple will have a dinner at a serene restaurant. It will be wine, dine and dance. Since they are young, it is assumed that they love fun and dancing is one of them. They will go to a restaurant and have a quiet dinner. Later on, they would have a slow dance before retiring back to their hotel for bed.

Couple B will go to the theatre to watch a play. Their age means they are old; this is why a theatre has been chosen for them. In watching the play, the couple will also be getting a chance to learn more about the Venice culture. After all, plays normally integrate culture involved.

Day Five: Monday

Walking and biking excursions shall be a fun activity for both couples. Both coupes being fit, it means that they wouldn’t mind enjoying a fun physical activity together. This shall be part of the Venice Gondola trip. This shall include a guided walk through the Gondola place. There shall be a walk to the Doge’s Palace.

Walk excursion

Walk through the Saint Mark’s Cathedral. Close to the Cathedral is the San Marco Square. For a better enjoyment of this walk the couples are to buy a tour guide known as the Secret Itinerary which goes for about sixteen pounds.

The Doge’s palace is rich in history especially in the administration of the city. There also exists a fascinating old roof structure which has lasted for over five hundred years old. Closely linked to this City is the Casanova jail. The couple will get a chance to learn more about the history associated with the city.

The next stop shall be the famous Saint Mark Bell Tower. There is further history to be learnt here regarding the development of the church. The saint Mark church was destroyed and the tower is a replica of the damaged church. The tower was built in the year 1912. The excursion shall lead the couple to the top of the tower to have a beautiful view of the city.

The next stop shall be at the Clock Tower. In Venice, it is referred to as Torre dell’Orologio. This shall be done with the help of a tour guide. In order to enjoy the fascinating view that is offered at the top of the clock tower, there is a need to get the relevant permissions. The tour guides will have sorted this out prior to the trip.

From there the following stop shall be at the Scuola grande DI San Rocco. This is a very beautiful guild house that was built along time ago. The couple is likely to enjoy this as it’s a good illustration of the great artwork that exists in Italy. Inside the guild, there are mirrored ceilings. The purpose of this mirror is to give the visitors a proper view of the building.

In order to appreciate historical developments, the couples will visit the Jewish Ghetto in Venice. This visit has to be made on Thursday because the market and ghetto are busy. This stems from the fact that on Friday evening shops are closed and there is less activity because the Sabbath is approaching.

On Saturday, the couple will find the Jewish in this place exercising their faith. It is important to note that the Jews are a minority in this place. This therefore means that it shall be interesting to see how the minority exercise their right to worship in this place

Day Six: Tuesday

This will be a shore excursion day. In the morning, there shall be an excursion that goes to the Bassano Del Grappa. This is a very small medieval town that is exists just close to Monte Grappa. This excursion shall be for couple B. It is a suitable place for people who want to explore Venetian villas.

The old couple is interested in luxurious trip and therefore this is why the excursion has been chosen for them. To reach there, the couple will decide whether they shall be driven by a private taxi or if they are willing to take a train. A train is expected to take around one and a half hours.

The place is also beautiful and can accommodate both couples in terms of their interests. It’s important to take note of the customers’ interests (Alipour & Darabi, 2011, p. 449).

A visit to the markets shall provide further insights about the people of Venice as well as a good opportunity to mingle and trade. It shall be good as food in the restaurants is also cheaper as compared to other places. A walk to the Rialto market is a must for couple B.

This shall allow them to buy presents to take back home as well as some souvenirs to keep for themselves. The Rialto is one of the biggest markets in Venice. The markets serve the interests of different shoppers. Apart from that there are many restaurants.

It is a nice place to interact with the Italian people. It is a typical market and everything is found in this market (McNeill, 2012 p. 245). Its history goes beyond eight hundred years ago. This market has fewer tourists compared to the San Marco Piazza. Therefore it is a better place to interact with the indigenous inhabitants of the city.

Another recommended walk is along the Giudecca canal. This is a sunny walk and through this walk the couples shall get a chance to witness some very nice sites. For instance from this place, the couple will get a chance to see how a Gondola is made. These are boat like structures which people ride through the canals. The place is also known as Zattere.

Food Wine and the nightlife shore excursions

The couple B will visit the Antico Martini. This restaurant was established in the year 1720 and has been in operation ever since. It is one of the well known luxury restaurants in Venice. It is a very important figure when it comes to culture as well a business people.

The restaurant normally invites several experts such as very qualified gourmets who come to give the place an excellent taste. The ambience is unforgettable. Since couple B is interested in luxurious restaurants they will find the Italian luxury in this restaurant. Couple A will go and have a dinner at the Restaurant Antiche Carampane.

This is situated somewhere near the Rialto market. Here they serve some Venetian cuisine. The setting is quite familiar to the revelers and unlike Antico Martini; it does not have a thick expression of the Venetian culture apart from the food. Since Couple A are not interested in the culture and they are also focused on the budget, this shall be a good place for them.

It also offers them a good view of the Rialto Bridge. Balancing the financial needs of the customer is also important (Robertson et al, 2011 p. 123). The need to balance luxury and quietness for the couple B is important. For Couple A, it is important to ensure that they get a romantic honeymoon.

Dinner at Restaurant La Caravella

The older couple will visit the Restaurant La Caravella. This was established in the 1960s. This place offers a traditional setting and is favourable to Couple B as they have an interest in the tradition of the place. It is normally open throughout the year.

During that time, they serve their customers in traditional courtyard. The service in the courtyard is normally done during May to September.

Dinner at DoLeoni

On this day, Couple A will have their dinner at Do Leoni. The Hotel is also known as Londra Palace. The place offers some very amazing food.

Their prices are very reasonable. For the reasonability in the food price is important for the young couple. Apart from the good food and reasonable prices there are also different forms of entertainment which the couple might like. Reasonable prices should match the quality service (Angelova & Zekiri, 2011).

Italia is greatly known for its pizza. In Venice, there are several places to get food. Apart from that there are also nice places where there is wine. Couple A shall go to Hotel Do Leone.

This hotel is well known for its first class service and the best thing is that its rates are not exorbitant. There are also night clubs. Couple B being young would surely find these clubs to be nice places.

After the dinner the couple will head to the Campo Santa Margherita. On this evening, the couple will be treated to great music in the Club.

They shall get an opportunity to get Italian drinks as well as dance the night away. As much as clubs are normally packed, the couple will find this to be interesting because it will be their first time in Venice.

Day Seven: Wednesday

Hiking place near San Giorgio Maggiore

This place is along the St. Marks. This shall be for couple A. The choice for this excursion is influenced by the fact that this couple wants to enjoy each other’s company. A hike will give them an excellent opportunity for this. The couples are expected to carry their own clothes and boots suitable for the hike. There shall be a guide who will lead the hike.

The hike shall be on foot and if the couple is tired they can ride on the Gondola. Apart from that they can also take a taxi. The tower budget is as shown below:

The price is also another factor why this excursion shall fit couple A is the reasonable rates. Being a little bit economically conscious the rates shall suit them better. They can ride the gondola on their way back. A gondola is a boat like structure which is used to ferry people along the canal. It is a popular means of transport and does not cost much. It is also used for touring the sites in Venice.

Couple B shall go fishing. The choice for this activity is based upon the fact that they are an old couple and therefore need not be engaged in vigorous physical activity. In the afternoon, the couple shall attend a walk in the city and visit an art gallery at the heart of Venice.

This is influenced by the fact that the couple appreciates art. The art involves paintings by renowned artists. Different architectural designs exist in the buildings that are along the streets. These designs also carry with them a long history of the city and the nation as a whole. For tourists who love history, this is a place to remember. There is a lot to be learnt too.

Culture based excursions

Culture and theme based excursions are also exciting in Venice. Couple B is more interested in the cultural aspect of Italy and therefore they will find this to be more interesting. Despite several paintings and architectural designs there are cinemas too which offer a wide array of Italian movies.

Couple B will particularly find Cinema as a better option because they wouldn’t like to be in noisy places. Apart from that, the cinema shall also remind them of their youth. The important thing is to ensure that customer satisfaction is achieved (Shi & McNeill, 2006 p 149; Knox et al, 2003).

Day Eight: Thursday

Preparations to fly back home

Visit to the churches for couple B. This being the date of departure, there shall be little activity. This is in order to make the couple take time to prepare for their journey back home. The couple shall also visit the other big churches within Venice.

They shall relax and have a resting time as they wait for their journey back. It is also important to know the feedback from the client (Cursus, 2011 p 95). Couple A will have a short visit to the Rialto market. This will allow them to have an opportunity to buy some presents and souvenirs for their friends back home.

References

Alipour, M & Darabi, E 2011, ‘The Role Of Service Marketing Mix And Its Impact On Marketing Audit In Engineering And Technical Service Corporations Global’, Journal of Management and Business Research, Vol. 3 no. 1, pp 448-454

Angelova , B & Zekiri, J 2011, ‘Measuring Customer Satisfaction with Service Quality Using American Customer Satisfaction Model (ACSI Model)’, International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, Vol. 1, no.3, pp 232-258

Bambale, A 2011, ‘Marketing And Organizational Citizenship Behavior’, Review Of Literature Contemporary Marketing Review, Vol. 1 no. 2, pp. 01 – 09

Cursus, A 2011, ‘Services Marketing Management, ‘Journal of Service Research, vol. 14 no.1, 93-107.

Goi, CL 2005, ‘Marketing mix: A Review of Product Mix,’ Journal of Internet booking and commerce, Vol, 10, no.2, pp: 1-10

Hunt, SD 2007, ‘A responsibilities framework for marketing as a professional discipline,’ Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, Vol. 26 no. 2, pp. 277-83.

Knox, S, Maklan, S, Payne, A, Peppard, J, & Ryals, L 2003, Customer Relationship Management, Butterwirth, Heinemann.

Magnini, V P 2011, ‘The Implications of Company Sponsored. Messages Disguised as Word-of-Mouth,’ Journal of Services Marketing, Vol 2 no.3, p 148-176

McNeill, L 2012, ‘Sales Promotion in the supermarket industry: A four country case comparison,’ International Review of Retail, Distribution and Consumer Research, vol. 22 no. 3, pp. 243-260

Michael, P, & AL-abdali, O 2003, ‘New perspective on marketing mix program standardization,’ International Business Review, vol.7 no 1, pp. 617-634

Michael, G 2006, ‘Marketing Mix for the 21st century,’ Journal of marketing theory and practice, Vol.12 no 1, pp. 10-15.

Morgan, N, Clark, B & Gooner, R 2003, ‘Marketing productivity, marketing audits, and systems for marketing performance assessment Integrating multiple perspectives,’ Journal of Business Research, vol. 55 no. 22, pp. 363– 375.

Robertson, K, McNeill, L, Green, J & Roberts, C 2011, ‘Illegal downloading, ethical concern and illegal behaviour,’ journal of Business Ethics, vol 3 no. 1, pp.3

Shi, J & McNeill, L 2006, ‘The Influence of culture on retail sales promotion in Chinese supermarkets,’ Australian Marketing Journal, vol. 14 no. 2, pp48-454

Wang, X 2011, ‘The effect of inconsistent word-of-mouth during the service encounter,’ Journal of Services Marketing, Vol. 25 no. 4, pp. 23-54

Webster, F E 2005, ‘A perspective on the evolution of marketing management,’ Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, Vol. 24 no. 1, pp. 121-6.

Cultural challenges and stress

Overview and demographics

Allure Cruise Line has three vessels in its fleet, with approximately 40 nationalities represented at any given time. However, this always fluctuates between 32 and 53 concerning contracts binding the crew and the company.

Nearly all the crew sign off each week depending on the time the Allure Cruise Line is within the home port. The same number of people come on board to replace others who have days-off.

1. Communication is a critical issue in Allure, as the firm engages in service of hiring agents to handle interviews and screen potential crew members for English skills to reduce the time which could be spent on bridging the logistical difference to achieve this.
2. Food is another difficult problem which Allure management has to cope with, making up the best menu to appeal and please everyone on board, as varying cultural backgrounds can be a really frustrating issue, not forgetting the high cost involved in meeting this objective.
3. Social life aboard the cruise ship has a great influence on the morale of the crew, depending on their age, which varies from 19 to 40 years. Majority of the crew members date and once in a while undergo break ups; and because of the proximity of their living and working conditions conflicts might arise among them.
4. Brotherhood mentality is another question capturing the diverse background and societal cultures on board the Allure, this characteristic is common for people from the same nationality and tends to depict a behavior resonating among them.

Solution

To avoid communication barrier among employees, Allure should continue to attract better employees by implementing a brilliant marketing strategy while developing a more competitive workforce. Allure should recruit the people in organizational-based teams and then induct the workers on skills based criteria.

This will go a long way to ensure that a strong sense of efficiency and productivity of Allure are upheld. Allure should make regular training on a normal part of human resource department’s responsibilities and integrate these functions into its human resource management strategy.

The food served to both, passengers and “internal passengers” is an issue, but Allure needs to focus more on their clientele than on the employees.

Social life within the crew members should be encouraged but with check and balances. A happier employee is more productive and more efficient at work than a lonely and demoralized one. Brotherhood disposition should be discouraged among crew members from the same race or background.

“Mafias” on board

Mafia is term used to describe the favoritism which occurs in the dining room aboard the Allure Cruise ships; the head server often portrays some passion and promotes only the crew from his or her own country.

The eastern and western Europeans hold leadership roles within the food service area and dining room. This dining room mafia phenomenon exists only in the dining rooms of the Cruise, where the top leaders are the dining room managers, supported by the head servers who wield a lot of power.

The dining room hierarchy is as shown below:

The head server exhibits a kind of experience in the dining room and creates a rapport with passengers by ensuring they are well catered and taken care of as they enjoy their experience aboard.

The servers are not well remunerated as compared to other staff; however, they make small salaries from the tips they receive from passengers who recognize their services.

Meanwhile, the tips received by the servers are divided among the servers themselves and the assistant servers. The benefits which accompany the server status make it one of the highly sought after positions on the Allure Cruise Ship.

Solution

Allure can improve employee performance by using more effective and efficient performance management programs. Allure has failed to correctly measure and confirm the conduct of their head servers, and this has been affecting the overall efficiency and productivity of the company.

Not only that, Allure has also failed to take into account the effect that the head server’s actions may have on the Allure’s representation among the passengers on board, and also the morale of other servers who feel cheated on board.

This has to change as Allure needs to give an independent person the task of keeping performance records and will need to constantly re-evaluate and assess the crew working in the dining room, alongside their regular superior.

This would allow the independent person a better opportunity to evaluate the servers without any degree of bias. This has come about as a highly significant change as now many companies require independent evaluations, as well as evaluations of employees by their superiors as essential (Cheverton, 2004).

These measurements help Allure to discover which of the crew members is engaged in working at quality level and, needless to say, becomes helpful in deciding who deserves a raise and bonus.

Meanwhile, it also keeps the crew members in controlling as they work harder and better to present themselves better. This also increases the level of enthusiasm in the employees and helps keep the business operating at a healthy rate (Boone, 2001).

In the current models of many organizations, the ones that are different from the more traditional ones, assistants are apportioned with tasks by the top managers as their authority is the best for the activity.

A contemporary approach is to arrange the chores and the workload by assigning up project crew consisting of crew members who join these teams because of their compatible to their competencies and trades like servers.

Allure can achieve this by reducing the level of hierarchy within the organization structure to limit bureaucracy.

Relation to real world

The image of Allure needs to be properly projected not only to attract more customers but also to attract the very best of human capital available. Enlisting reputable workers is becoming an extremely hard task these days, because of the continuously changing working environment and the massive degree of competition in the workforce.

The attitude and morals of the Allure workforce are a tremendously sturdy contributing factor to the company’s overall image in this competitive market.

The marketing department at Allure needs to be more involved in changing the way the company works and operates within the internal structures to determine the effect of the company on the local community and internationally.

Allure should advertise to attract clientele but also portray the right image worldwide. These factors are essential for Allure’s growth and success.

In the newer models of organization, different from the traditional ones, workers are assigned with work by the upper management on the basis of the management that is best for the job.

A new approach is to organize the work and the workload by setting up project teams consisting of workers who join these teams because they think they are compatible to their competencies and interests (Anshutz, 2006).

Companies that follow such models usually change the levels in the company’s organization, and mostly keep only three levels: project sponsors (the former management team); project leaders; and project coworkers.

References

Anshutz, J. (2006). How to successfully manage people. Hong Kong: Perfect Bound Paperback.

Boone, M. E. (2001). Managing interactively: Executing business strategy, improving communication and creating a knowledge-sharing culture. New York: McGraw Hill Professional.

Cheverton, P. (2004). Key marketing skills: strategies, tools and techniques for marketing success. Kogan: Page Publishers.

Introduction

Traveling can be described as the movement of people or conveyance objects from one geographical location to another. The rapid technological development has facilitated faster and efficient movement of people to and from various destinations around the globe.

Different forms of transport are used depending on the distance and personal preference or socio-economic status. Air transport is the most efficient form of conveyance for people traveling to distant areas. Road and rail transport are preferred when traveling on shorter distances. People travel for various reasons.

Common forms of travel may include the following: Business travel, whereby individuals travel to various destinations for reasons that are related to their work; recreation travel, whereby people travel for leisure purposes (Hjalager, 2000). Recreational activities are usually performed for enjoyment, amusement and are often considered to be fun.

Recreation forms an important element in an individual’s development and wellbeing (Kelessidis & Kalonaki, 2009). Tourism and/or vacation can be considered as forms of holiday travel. There are other reasons why people travel and this may include traveling for charity work; mission services; and for research or gathering information (Sigala, 2007).

Previous research indicates that people travel for different motives such as relaxation, exploration, pleasure and getting to know other cultures or for social development (Kelessidis & Kalonaki, 2009).

This qualitative research paper reports on the investigation of various factors relating to travel. The paper has utilized data collected via questionnaires administered online.

The questionnaires were specifically designed to collect data on the frequency of travelling; importance of travelling in relation to other activities; preferred travel destinations; motives for travelling; memorable travel destinations; advice/recommendation for a travel destination, among other factors.

Methods

The research utilized online interviews to collect various data on travel. The interviews were administered in the form of semi structured questionnaires that were voluntarily completed by the participants. Questionnaires were used for this research due to their advantages over other forms of collecting data.

The advantages include the fact that questionnaires are practical; they allow a researcher to collect large amounts of data from a large number of people in a short period and at a cheaper cost; the uniformity leads to limited effect on the validity and reliability of the responses; data collected can be quantified easily using a software package; they lead to a more scientific and objective analysis as compared to other forms of research (Sigala, 2007).

However, there are various challenges that accompany the use of questionnaires and they have been properly addressed in this paper. These challenges include; likelihood of information being influenced by feelings or emotions; truthfulness of the responses cannot be verified; different respondents may interpret the questions differently and therefore give inconsistent responses; questionnaires can also limit the scope of the study in one way or another (Sigala, 2007).

The questions that were included for this particular study were formulated in regard to the different aspects relating to travel. The questions specifically sought to establish why, when, and for what reason participants indulged in travel activities. Each aspect was addressed via different questions reflecting different themes. The participants were additionally requested to state their gender so as to establish the traveling patterns between the different genders.

The methods used in this study were reviewed by the university’s ethical board in consistent with the requirements for any research that involves human subjects. Additionally, the respondents were provided with a description of the purpose of the study, privacy statement, and a description of their freedom to choose whether to participate or not to.

Sample Description and Process Analysis and Findings

The data generated from this study was categorized in tables according to the identified themes and face information.

Table 1: Description of the participant’s gender, travel frequency, date of recent travel, travel satisfaction, and perceived travel importance in relation to other activities.

Table 2: Description of the specific findings on various themes (Recommendation for travel destination, recent travel experience, memorable travel destination, undesired travel experience, Travel expectations, and satisfaction with the survey).

Table: Summary of the findings of the study categorized according to face data and identified themes

The study sample consisted of a total of 26 participants who were selected on random basis. Twenty of the participants were female, accounting for 76% of the sample. Only 6 participants or 24% were male. Eight of the participants went on vacation once a year while the rest went more than once.

Twenty-four out of the 26 participants had traveled in the past year, most to destinations within North America, preferably the United States and Canada. There was a particular liking for California and Hawaii among various participants. Most of the respondents who participated in the survey had traveled in the past year (98%).

In regard to the frequency of traveling, 11.5% of the respondents traveled less than once a year, 30% traveled at least once a year, while about 58% of them traveled more than once a year. Sixty-five percent of the participants rated travelling as the most important leisure activity in their lives.

While 30% of them indicated that traveling was moderately important compared to other leisure activities. Up to 62.6% of the respondents were highly satisfied with their most recent travel activities, while 38.4% were moderately satisfied. Most of the respondents surveyed sourced destination recommendations from a variety of sources including family (61.5%), friends (69.2%), internet (57.6), and magazines/newspapers (19%).

Many of the responds surveyed showed that they indulge in traveling activities purely for entertainment value (65.3%), while only 34% traveled for learning purposes. The respondents posted varied responses in regard to what they believed was the most memorable experience of their travel.

Such memorable experiences revolved around bonding with family members (26.9%), Bonding with friends (11%), Leisure (11%), touring attractive sites (23%), and experiencing the unique cultures offered by various destinations 26.9%.

Many participants showed a marked dislike in regard to traveling to areas that were too familiar (19%), have little or no attractions (19%), have unfriendly people 15%). Thirty-four percent of the participants had their own reasons for disliking a destination, mostly in relation to previous experiences with those they traveled with.

The questionnaire used for this study consisted of two main parts. The first part required the participants to provide face sheet information that included: gender, frequency of travel per year, the approximate date of the most recent travel, the name of the recently traveled destination, the overall satisfaction with the most recent travel, and the overall importance of travel in relation to other activities. All the responses were coded and tabulated.

The second part of the questionnaire required the participant to respond to core questions that summarized various themes on travel. This section consisted of 7 questions, 6 of which were important to the immediate study. The first question in this section required the participant to identify the way in which he/she gets to know about a travel destination.

The theme generated by this question is Recommendation for travel and included four responses, namely family, friends, internet, guidebooks, and magazines. These were coded as 1,2,3,4 respectively (See Appendix 1). The second question required the participants to state the recent travel experiences. And this was rated as poor, average or good (see Appendix 1).

The third question required the participants to state their most memorable destinations together with the most memorable experiences. The “Experience” theme is a nominal scale and the participant’s responses were evaluated against pre-determined categories such as bonding with family members, bonding with friends, leisure, among others (Kelessidis & Kalonaki, 2009).

The fourth question investigated on the factors that might be responsible for negative travel experiences attributed to certain travel destinations. The “negative experience” theme was investigated by factors such as “harsh climate, too familiar, few or no attractions, and unfriendly people among others” (Tsartas, 2000).

These questions attracted varied responses that facilitated the inclusion of another category, “Others” to take care of responses that did not fit into other major categories (Tsartas, 2000). The fifth question investigated whether the participants traveled on impulse or after careful planning.

The question additionally required them to state their expectations of travel i.e. to choose between entertainment and learning. All the respondents planned their travel and so only the expectations theme was included in the final data as the responses varied from entertainment to learning. The final important question investigated the level of satisfaction with the online survey.

Questions for parts A and B were formulated in a friendly manner to encourage the participants to offer honest responses.

Discussion and Conclusions

The study was carried out among students attending the University of British Columbia (UBC). The responses given reflect the typical traveling characteristics and patterns of young adults or youths. Most of the respondents who participated in this study were females accounting for 76% of the total number of participants.

This can be interpreted to mean females indulge more in traveling as compared to their male counterparts. The majority of the respondents had traveled in the recent past, indicating that traveling was a preferred way of breaking off from the daily work life. Indeed the recreational value of traveling is essential for the human body (Sigala, 2007).

Normally, human beings spent most of their time doing daily living activities such as working and sleeping. Recreational activities such as traveling have been shown to positively impact on the health of an individual. Traveling as a recreational activity mostly results into positive psychological impacts as opposed to physical, not unless it’s conducted on a very regular basis.

The results showed that most of the respondents traveled more than once a year. The frequency of traveling increased with the decrease in the travel distance, with some considering moving from college to home as a traveling activity.

The area where the study was conducted had a profound impact on the preferred travel destinations. Thus most participants traveled to areas within North America, particularly Canada and the United States. This partly reflects the financial and time constraints that prevent most people from traveling to distant countries (Sigala, 2007).

Additionally, most of the participants had their travels facilitated by their parents and therefore had little influence on the distance of their destinations. However, older respondents had traveled more to distant destinations due to the fact that they are in a better position to make their own decisions and meet the financial requirements of traveling.

When asked to state their most memorable destinations, the respondents tended to point to distant destinations such as Japan, Thailand, and the UK. This indicates that they were more eager to experience the cultural diversity offered by such distant locations.

A particular liking was directed towards East Asian nations, notably Thailand and Japan, whose people were thought to be very kind and helpful. A notable number of the respondents consisted of students whose families had immigrated to Canada. Such students had fond memories regarding tours made to their countries of origin.

The findings of this study were consistent with findings from other studies in regard to the purpose and motivation for traveling. As confirmed by the study, most people travel for “recreation, tourism, holiday visitations, charity and business reasons (Sigala, 2007).

Business reason was not captured very well in this study as the study population consisted of college students who are yet to indulge in any meaningful business activities” (Kelessidis & Kalonaki, 2009, p. 4).

The motives of travel identified in this study are consistent with those established by studies conducted earlier. Such motives include “pleasure, relaxation, discovery, and getting to know the cultures in other areas of the world” (Hjalager, 2000).

Established by this study, traveling activities are conducted on several levels which include national, regional, and international basis (Tsartas, 2000). More resources are required for more distant travels and this requires proper planning. Decisions to travel on shorter distances are more often made impulsively. International travel normally requires one to be in possession of a visa and a passport.

The information provided by various sources such as friends, the web, magazines, and newspapers in regard to travel destinations had a profound impact on the destination choice. For instance, the respondents surveyed in this study traveled to famous destinations within their regions. The decision to travel to such destinations is most frequently made following a recommendation from a friend or family member.

The respondents disliked destinations that were similar in one way or another to their home towns or countries. Other unpopular attributes of travel destinations revealed in this study include harsh climate, familiarity with the participants, unfriendly cultures, language barrier, disorganization, and the lack of adequate attraction sites.

Therefore the respondents counterchecked for this with their families or friends to identify an ideal travel destination. Some dislikes were however based on personal prejudices, mostly based on previous experience. These findings go further to show how negative publicity affects tourism. For instance, none of the respondents had ever toured or showed the desire to tour areas that are prone to terrorist activities.

This paper investigated on various factors associated with travel. The study population consisted of students attending the University of British Columbia.

The study mainly established the gender of respondents; their most recent travel; their frequency of traveling; their satisfaction with the most recent travel; recommendations for travel destinations; the core reasons for traveling; their most memorable travel experience; and an account of their least preferred travel experience.

The survey was carried out in the form of an online interview whereby the respondents were voluntarily requested to feel the questionnaires. The study took note of the pros and cons of using questionnaires to conduct studies and the ethical issues that might arise.

The findings of the study were found to be consistent with findings of other studies but were a bit restricted due to the nature of the study population. The findings can however be applied to other populations with similar demographic factors.

Generally, they reflect the changing patterns of travel as a result of increased globalization, technological advancement, and international security (Hjalager, 2000).

However, more research still needs to be done to identify patterns associated with the bigger population that includes other age groups, supplementary to patterns associated with the predominant college-going age group addressed in this study.

References

Hjalager, A. (2000). Tourism destinations and the concept of industrial districts. Tourism and hospitality Research, (3): 199-213.

Kelessidis, V., & Kalonaki, E. (2009). Global Tourism Analysis. Crete: University of Crete.

Sigala, M. (2007). New product development processes in tourism clusters: a knowledge management approach. Dallas: CHRIE.

Tsartas, P. (2000). Tourist development: Multi-scientific approaches. Athens: Exandas.

Introduction

Leisure sector is one of the highly developing now as living in the modern world, many people spend too much time at work and when it comes to leisure they are unable to understand what they want to do.

Planning leisure time and helping people understand what they want to do is a complicated process as tastes differ. Moreover, the work with people is always complicated. Travel agents are people who spend their time on organizing vacation for those who are busy and when it comes to journey they prefer to use the services of the professionals.

Travel agents are not just people who offer the country to travel and the hotel, travel agents are those who organize all the sides and details of the trip doing all possible that a client should worry about nothing.

The responsibilities of travel agents

Travel agents are responsible for making sure that their clients are satisfied with the received services. To guarantee such effect, travel agents have to perform a number of activities. First of all, one of the main responsibilities of a travel agent is to create a tour package.

This is a number of services which include all the necessary items while traveling. Buying a tour package, a client should just pack his/her things and get to the airport. All other services should be included in the tour package. Transportation, transfer, accommodation, excursions and other services are usually included in the tour packages.

In most cases travel agents sell the tour packages which were created many years ago and tourists constantly go there. However, there may be cases when some clients want something unique, or the tour package has become out of date. In this case travel agents are responsible for developing an absolutely new tour package.

This work is rather hard and time consuming as in most cases the development of a new tour requires the travel to the new place, search for interesting attractions and trying to make sure that the quality of the services and their price are balanced.

Additionally, travel agents are responsible for promoting and marketing their business, making financial and statistical records to calculate the income rate and budgeting for the future projects, dealing with customer and doing all possible to meet their expectations.

The profession of a travel agent is a complicated as working with people, all travel agents should possess the knowledge of psychology trying to predict the desires of clients, to make agreements with travel partners such as airlines and hotels, to organize bookings and schedules which may be completed for one year in advance.

The value of travel agents in the contemporary world

The value of travel agents in the modern world cannot be overestimated. Many people got used to luxury and comfort and selecting the service which is going to organize their leisure such people want to have the best.

Most of businessmen are not going to search on the Internet trying to understand what place they want to visit, which hotel they will use and what documents they are to gather to get a visa. Travel agents are created for such cases.

This profession requires from people high education, creativity, knowledge of psychology and the ability to work with people. Travel agents should know the range of the services they provide and the countries they may offer to the clients.

Being too busy, many people are unable to think about the place they want to visit, therefore, it is the responsibility of a travel agent to offer the places which may be interesting for a client on the sum of money he/she can spend.

Travel agents are like the wedding organizers or the office managers in the company. Their services may be performed by people themselves, but due to the sharing of responsibilities, tough schedule and much work, many people prefer to shift their responsibilities to others making all possible to get the highest profit from this.

What motivates travel agents in the leisure sector?

Travel agents are highly motivated people in the leisure sector. Being able to create the unique services, these people may get more money. If to imagine the modern tourism, it becomes obvious that most of the popular places are always abound with people.

However, there is a group of people who want to have a rest in the places where they will not meet to many tourists. Such services are unique as a travel agent will have to create the tour package with well not be used by the masses. The unique services cost more in all spheres, therefore, the financial part is the fist motive.

The ability to work with people and to satisfy their needs is another factor. The observation of the personal success, the opportunity to see that you managed to help another person with the choice, to see the grateful eyes is also important. Work with people is a complicated affair which is also pleasant.

One more factor which motivated travel agents in the leisure sector is the opportunity to see the world. When travel agents develop a new tour they have to visit this new place. Moreover, there may be the necessity to visit the already existing tours to make sure all the services are completed properly.

The challenges of managing travel agents

It is rather difficult to manage travel agents in the modern competing world. The competition is so high that it becomes hard to sell the product and to develop a new tour package. Travel agents should be familiar with marketing sphere as to sell the product, it should be correctly advertised.

The reduction of the prices is not really effective with some category of people, however it still remains the main marketing aspect. Most travel agents are creative people who may have complexities with documentation. Moreover, there are different problems with selling the booked services.

If travel agents are unable to sell those, the company may lose great sum of money. The seasonal changes also affect the travel agents who should search for the ways to sell the product at any place, price and quality. Managing travel agents one should understand the peculiarity of work of these people as only in this case travel agents will be able to be cope with their work effectively.

Sharing of the responsibilities is one more issue which should be considered by the managers as travel agents should work in agreement, without allowing many people develop the same tour package.

Succession planning for travel agents in the leisure sector

Travel agents should carefully plan succession in their sector to make sure that the further agents will be informed about the work which has already been done. It is important to have good archive where the data about the tour packages with the statistical data about the most successful and interesting ones is gathered.

Travel agents should also care about the list of the clients who use their services every year with the concise data about all the travels of the client with the reflection. The information is one of the main aspects in travel agent’s work, therefore, sharing the data, agents should make sure that the next travel agent will use the collected information appropriately.

Modern technologies and the development of software allow travel agents gather al the necessary information and keep it in computers. Special software programs devoted to booking places and composing the tour packages are able to save the information about clients and their desire.

Planning in travel agency department is important as in another sector of leisure industry. Good planning brings much profit and the successful succession planning for travel agents in the leisure sector adds to the reputation of the agency indirectly and improves its image.

People will return to the agency and will tell their friends about it if they are satisfied with the services.

The importance of travel agents in visitor attraction operations

The place of the travel agents in the visitor attraction operations is high as planning the trips and developing the tour packages, travel agents should pay attention to entertainment. Most of the hotels have simplest attractions, animators and other services which may help people enjoy their vacations.

In case the hotel does not have enough attractions and services for entertaining, travel agents should search for the nearest places where tourists may go. Travel agents are to spend much time on selecting the most appropriate place as the services tourists get there will be reflected on the image of the travel agency.

The reputation of the place of entertainment should be appropriate. Thus, agents play important role in the development of the places of attraction in the recreations. Travel agents are to check the place before sending tourists there, that is why the taste and the creative thinking of these people is the main factor in developing the entertainment program.

Moreover, the places of interest tourists are to visit also depend on the informative nature of travel agents. A good travel agent will always offer a good program for their clients and point on the most exciting attractions.

Conclusion

Therefore, it should be concluded that the profession of a travel agent is important. Being too busy, people are unable to waste their time on planning their trips.

Many working people do not have enough time to have a rest, therefore, when people are about to go for a trip, they prefer to use the services of those who are can professionally organize their vacation. In many cases, travel agents care about everything, document, visas, transfer, hotel and excursions to make sure that a client is satisfied.

The variety of places and services help travel agents work with people of different income and social status. The profession of a travel agent is creative and interesting as composing the tour packages agents are to use their imagination to make sure that the work they perform is going to be in a demand.