Course 2009-2010 a.y.

Course Objectives

The course focuses on the cross-disciplinary study of economic, environmental, and socio-cultural issues in tourism and takes advantage of the theoretical and practical approaches derived from the tourism economics. The objective is to provide the tools for understanding the dynamics and new frontiers of the tourism market, both from the demand and the supply side, in order to manage the local development. The discussions examine methodological issues and practical strategies to maximize the tourism potential of local resources, attractions, and cultural and natural sites. The complex relationships among tourism firms, territories and stakeholders are studied, analyzing the role of local clusters and the different strategies and tools used both by the tourism industry and by destination management organizations.The impacts of tourism and tourism policy implications is also discussed during the course. Class discussions, case studies, and management games are used during the course. In addition, guest speakers from the industry are hosted and some student outings are organized.

Course Content Summary

• The tourism market: dynamics and trends;
• The hospitality industry (Hotellerie and hotel chains, B&B, rural houses, luxury and budget accommodations)
• Tourism intermediaries (Tour operators, travel agencies, Global Distribution Systems, )
• Tourism destinations: sustainability and competitiveness of local development
• The key role of cultural tourism;
• Tourism in cultural sites: product development and congestion management (the case of UNESCO sites);
• The European Capitals of Culture
• Emerging tourism attractions: enogastronomy, fashion, movie industry, congress and meetings;
• The mega events as drivers of tourism development (the case of Expo 2015);
• Destination planning, management and branding;
• Cultural, social and economic impacts of tourism;
• Environmental issues related to tourism development;
• Climate change and crisis management;
• Information and knowledge management in tourism (ecommerce, travel 2.0).

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

Attending Students:

• 50% written exam on topics discussed during the lectures
• 50% individual/group assignment (15% case study, 35% class discussion)

A mid-term exam is done during the course.

Non attending students

• written exam

Textbooks

Attending students

• Lecture notes edited by EGEA
• Vanhove, N. (2008), The economics of tourism, Elsevier. Selected chapters.

Non attending students

• Lecture notes edited by EGEA
• Vanhove, N. (2008), The economics of tourism, Elsevier.