About The Tourism Industry

About The Tourism Industry

As the primary engine of growth for the nation?s economy, the tourism industry is a vital, dynamic and evolving industry. With a mature tourism infrastructure supporting approximately 1.5 million stopover visitors and 3.5 million cruise visitors per annum, and a progressive service industry, tourism has become the largest driver of the economic activity in The Bahamas.

Moreover, with recent investments – the Atlantis Phase III, the Baha Mar Development Company in the Cable Beach strip, and any number of projects planned for the Family Islands – the tourism industry is poised for exponential growth and development, creating an untold range of opportunities not only for jobs within and related to the industry, but for entrepreneurial initiatives that will help create sustainable and lasting economic supports for the industry.

Why do visitors choose The Bahamas? In 2003, almost 70 percent of vacationers to Nassau/Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island and the Family Islands said their decision was based on the warm climate and the beauty and accessibility of our beaches first and foremost, followed by the diversity of hotel facilities.

In 2003, almost 50% of vacationers to The Bahamas booked an air and hotel inclusive package with best vacation value cited as being of increasing importance in the decision-making process.


Why Choose a Career in Tourism?



With an industry so diverse, tourism offers a long-term career fit for enthusiastic individuals wanting to put their education and skills to work in an exciting and varied environment.



From operational positions to management and executive level responsibilities, you'll find opportunities for solid training, knowledge and skill development along with unlimited career growth. The tourism industry also offers a unique environment for those that wish to start their own business.

For those interested in climbing the tourism ladder, here's a snapshot of career levels and opportunities:

Operational Positions
These usually involve direct contact with tourists and are often the first step in a lifetime career. Sample jobs include:

Ski Repair Technician
Bartender
Concierge
Adventure Tour Guide
Cook
Sales Coordinator
Supervisory Positions
These roles hire, manage, motivate and schedule operational positions as well as provide key functional expertise. Sample jobs include:

Guest Services Supervisor
Ski Patrol Supervisor
Event Planner
Restaurant Shift Supervisor
Team Leader Accounting
Maintenance Supervisor
Management Positions
These positions involve budgeting, analysis, planning and change management in order to help employees and the organization to grow and prosper. There may also be interaction with other tourism sectors and community involvement. Sample jobs include:

Director of Sales and Marketing
Head Chef
Ski Area Manager
Rooms Division Manager
Adventure Company Owner
Attractions Operations Manager
Executives
Executives are often responsible for several departments or divisions and usually work at a regional, national or international level. They are responsible for strategic planning and have significant budget responsibility. Sample jobs include:

Hotel General Manager
Regional Manager of Restaurant Chain
Vice President of Human Resources
Tour Company President
Convention Centre Executive Director
CEO of Destination Marketing Organization (e.g. Tourism British Columbia)
There are also plenty of opportunities within the tourism industry for the self-starter seeking entrepreneurial ventures. Whether you're looking to open a restaurant, tour company, an outdoor adventure operation or a bed and breakfast, the phenomenal growth of tourism in BC means bountiful business opportunities for the entrepreneurial spirit.

If you were to describe your dream job, it would probably have some, if not all of the following characteristics: limitless career opportunities in a growing and important industry, routine travel, and new challenges around every bend. Do we have your attention? You will find all of these qualities in a career in travel and tourism.
Travel and tourism is one of America's largest industries. The Travel Industry Association of America says that in 2004, the U.S. travel industry received more than $600 billion from domestic and international travelers, and that's not counting international passenger fares. These expenditures directly resulted in 7.3 million jobs and over $162 billion in payroll income for Americans, as well as $100 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenue. Travel and tourism is an incredibly vital and exciting industry, and the career opportunities that exist within it are as varied as the destinations it serves.

What are my options?
While a large part of the travel and tourism industry is comprised of travel agencies, there are many other vital components. These include hotels, resorts, restaurants/food, bus/train/airline bookings, and tour operations. Among travel agents there is a great deal of variation. Some specialize in business travel, and are involved in planning, publicity and bookings for conferences or trade fairs. Some specialize in holiday/vacation planning.

What do I need to know?
A travel and tourism career requires a wide array of skills, and some formal study in travel and tourism is helpful. Your studies will include computer and technology training, marketing, business management, accounting and public relations. Have you traveled much? That's even better. Experienced travelers bring unique and desirable qualities to their positions, and those in travel and tourism careers often get free or discounted travel. See and experience the world everyday with a career in travel and tourism