Getting on a plane and traveling to a new destination is one of life’s simple pleasures. For some it is an escape from drudgery or a sensory experience that is both hyper-real and exciting.
For others it is a chance to visit friends and family or to do some research. For most it is a break from the everyday grind.
The travel industry is an important part of almost every country’s economy. The industry supports almost 1 in every 11 jobs worldwide. It also contributes about 9 percent of the global GDP. However, the industry has recently suffered a sharp decline in revenue. Many businesses have laid off staff and others are shouldering ongoing costs.
The travel industry is changing rapidly. Technological advancements have made traveling more accessible. For example, in the 21st century you can take an overnight flight from Spain to the U.S. In addition, travelers spend billions of dollars on their trips.
The tourism industry also overlaps with the travel industry. In fact, the travel industry is a significant contributor to the tourism industry. The travel industry supports over 266 million jobs worldwide. It also contributes about 6 percent of world exports. Getting a job in the travel industry is a great opportunity for those looking for a career that offers variety and long-term prospects.
Whether you want to travel on your own or in a group, travel agents are available to help you plan your trip. They will help you book flights, cruises, hotels and other travel services. They also provide expert guidance and help you save time. They can often get you better rates than you can find on your own. They can also get you last minute deals that you might not find on your own.
Traveling can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be uncomfortable and unpredictable. Some travelers use public transportation or use their own vehicles, such as an automobile or bicycle. Others may use a taxi, bus or train.
For those who are new to travel, a travel agent can make the process of getting on a plane and visiting a new destination a little easier. They can also provide last-minute deals, save time, and find travel services that are not available to the public. Travel agents have relationships with cruise lines and can often get you last-minute deals that you might not be able to find on your own.
While you are traveling, you might find yourself fighting for space with chickens in Ecuador or ordering chargrilled gizzards in Tokyo. The smells and tastes of a new destination are often strange and unfamiliar.
Travel can also be done for charity or to visit family and friends. For example, if you want to spend a week in Ecuador, you may want to donate some of your money to the country’s health care system. It can also be done to get a new perspective on life.
While the tourism and travel industries are overlapping, they are also very different. For example, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) estimates that international tourism has dropped by more than 80 percent since 2009. That means that more than 100 million jobs worldwide could be at risk.