Careers In Travel and Tourism

Travel and Tourism are two of the largest industries in the world. In many countries, tourism contributes to a major part of the national GDP and is often the number one employer. Both Travel and Tourism are also fast growing and exciting sectors. New destinations and products are constantly being introduced to an evolving consumer base that is rapidly growing more connected, mobile and affluent.

A career in tourism deals with any business that directly provides goods or services to people who are away from home (travellers, visitors or tourists). The tourism industry covers a vast and varied range of jobs dealing with the servicing and management of hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, conventions, theme parks, tourist attractions, cruises, airlines, tour agencies, nature reserves, resorts and many, many more. Tourism enterprises can range from major international corporations with thousands of employees, to a small family-owned businesses with only a few employees. With a vast variety of options, travel tourism jobs are constantly evolving with the industry embracing new technological advances and strategies.

Ongoing technological advances in transportation and communications networks are making worldwide travel easier, more comfortable and accessible to more and more people. There are many promising job opportunities to be found within the travel industry. Job seekers have an almost endless range of possibilities to pick from in the travel industry. Some career choices include airlines, cruise companies, car rental/ hire, ticket sales, tour operations, luxury or adventure travel, leisure or corporate travel and many others.

Salaries in travel and tourism can vary widely within the industry. A major job perk is the opportunity for travel, including free or discounted travel and accommodation for families. Hotels, airlines/ cruises and attractions often partner with one another to offer special packages or discounted rates to their staff or people within the industry. Besides travel perks, many roles within Travel and Tourism also offer the opportunity to earn commission and gratuities on top of a base salary.

Travel and Tourism companies are constantly on the lookout for energetic, flexible and adaptable individuals. The type of professionals who thrive in these industries tend to be people-oriented, open-minded and possess excellent interpersonal skills.