Provides a dynamic introduction to the processes by which government tourism policy is formed. Key factors which influence tourism policy making are presented and include the effect of tourism organisations on policy, values in the tourism policy-making process, the role of interest groups, aspects of power in policy making, and evaluating tourism policy.

Tourism Public Policy, and the Strategic Management of Failure.

The tourism industry, as one of the main drivers of creative economy, gains more importance in growth policies both at national and regional levels. However traditional tourism destinations now face a more competitive environment, for an increased number of possible destinations have emerged. This environment is further deepened by an increase in the number of products and services available to the preferences of visitors. Therefore new tourism policies, unlike traditional strategies, should aim to increase the competitiveness of the local through supporting increased quality of experience and promoting innovation in tourism services. Based on the workshop organized by Regional Studies Association Research Network on "Tourism, Regional Development and Public Policy" in Izmir, Turkey, this book introduces, motivates and examines diversities in the tourism industry from a regional development perspective. The papers in this book cover various case studies from different country experiences. The views expressed in these articles promise to improve our understanding of tourism in a new aspect that goes beyond the mass tourism mentality. This book was originally published as a special issue of European Planning Studies.

This groundbreaking Companion offers readers an opportunity to reassess key themes in contemporary tourism studies in the light of recent theoretical developments in tourism studies and the social sciences, as well as dramatic changes in the operating environment for tourism. A critical overview of current research in tourism studies. Offers readers an opportunity to reassess key themes in tourism studies in the light of recent developments, such as terrorist attacks, SARS and the financial failure of airlines. Comprises 48 specially commissioned essays, written by more than 50 acknowledged experts from around the world. Covers cutting-edge perspectives and topics, including tourism’s role in globalization, sustainable tourism, and the state’s role in tourism development. Sets an agenda for future tourism research. Includes a wealth of bibliographic references.

Developing a Dream Destination is an interpretive history of tourism and tourism policy development in Hawai‘i from the 1960s to the twenty-first century. Part 1 looks at the many changes in tourism since statehood (1959) and tourism’s imprint on Hawai‘i. Part 2 reviews the development of public policy toward tourism, beginning with a story of the planning process that started around 1970—a full decade before the first comprehensive State Tourism Plan was crafted and implemented. It also examines state government policies and actions taken relative to the taxation of tourism, tourism promotion, convention center development and financing, the environment, Honolulu County’s efforts to improve Waikiki, and how the Neighbor Islands have coped with explosive tourism growth. Along the way, author James Mak offers interpretations of what has worked, what has not, and why. He concludes with a chapter on the lessons learned while developing a dream destination over the past half century.

Tourism Economics and Policy combines a comprehensive treatment of economic concepts and applications in tourism contexts. Topics include tourism demand and forecasting, tourism supply and pricing, measuring the impacts and benefits of changes in tourism demand, tourism investment and infrastructure, tourism taxation, aviation, tourism and the environment (including climate change) and destination competitiveness. The text provides an excellent basis for students to appreciate the relevance of economic analysis to the solution of real life tourism issues and as an input into tourism policy formulation.

Contains excellent coverage of topics, including chapters on trends, perspectives, and practice, indigenous tourism, local tourism, and protected areas. Two practical features in each chapter illustrate and reinforce chapter content.