Course Overview
The International Tourism course introduces students to the global dynamics of the tourism industry, examining its economic, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions.
Students will explore how international tourism shapes markets, influences global development, and interacts with contemporary challenges such as sustainability, digitalization, and post-pandemic recovery.
The course blends theoretical foundations with practical case studies, enabling students to interpret global data, analyze destination competitiveness, and understand the evolving behavior of international tourists.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
• Understand key concepts, structures, and functions of the international tourism system.
• Interpret and analyze UNWTO and WTTC tourism data and trends.
• Identify and assess major determinants of tourism demand and supply.
• Evaluate the economic impact of tourism on GDP, employment, and trade.
• Discuss sustainable tourism development and policy challenges.
• Develop analytical and presentation skills through case-based learning.
Main Topics
1. Introduction to International Tourism
2. Global Trends and Markets (UNWTO 2024–2025)
3. Tourism Demand and Supply
4. Consumer Behavior and Market Segmentation
5. Tourism Economics (GDP, Employment, Trade)
6. Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
7. Destination Competitiveness and Policy Frameworks
8. Case Studies: Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Emerging Destinations
Teaching and Learning Methods
• Interactive lectures and visual presentations
• Group discussions and case studies
• Data interpretation activities (UNWTO Dashboard, Eurostat)
• Student presentations and debates
• Guest lectures from tourism professionals (optional)
Assessment
Component Weight Description
Individual project 50% Written paper and presentation on selected topic
Final exam 50% Comprehensive written examination
Skills Developed
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Data interpretation and evidence-based reasoning
• Intercultural communication and teamwork
• Academic writing and professional presentation skills
Key References
• UNWTO (2025). World Tourism Barometer.
• WTTC (2024). Travel & Tourism Economic Impact Report.
• Cooper, C. et al. (2020). Tourism: Principles and Practice.
• Hall, C. M. & Page, S. J. (2019). The Geography of Tourism and Recreation.
• Swarbrooke, J. & Horner, S. (2019). Consumer Behaviour in Tourism.
Course Philosophy
Tourism is more than travel — it is a global system of economic, cultural, and human exchange.
This course encourages students to think critically and act responsibly, preparing them to engage with a global industry that connects people, places, and possibilities.
The International Tourism course introduces students to the global dynamics of the tourism industry, examining its economic, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions.
Students will explore how international tourism shapes markets, influences global development, and interacts with contemporary challenges such as sustainability, digitalization, and post-pandemic recovery.
The course blends theoretical foundations with practical case studies, enabling students to interpret global data, analyze destination competitiveness, and understand the evolving behavior of international tourists.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
• Understand key concepts, structures, and functions of the international tourism system.
• Interpret and analyze UNWTO and WTTC tourism data and trends.
• Identify and assess major determinants of tourism demand and supply.
• Evaluate the economic impact of tourism on GDP, employment, and trade.
• Discuss sustainable tourism development and policy challenges.
• Develop analytical and presentation skills through case-based learning.
Main Topics
1. Introduction to International Tourism
2. Global Trends and Markets (UNWTO 2024–2025)
3. Tourism Demand and Supply
4. Consumer Behavior and Market Segmentation
5. Tourism Economics (GDP, Employment, Trade)
6. Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
7. Destination Competitiveness and Policy Frameworks
8. Case Studies: Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Emerging Destinations
Teaching and Learning Methods
• Interactive lectures and visual presentations
• Group discussions and case studies
• Data interpretation activities (UNWTO Dashboard, Eurostat)
• Student presentations and debates
• Guest lectures from tourism professionals (optional)
Assessment
Component Weight Description
Individual project 50% Written paper and presentation on selected topic
Final exam 50% Comprehensive written examination
Skills Developed
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Data interpretation and evidence-based reasoning
• Intercultural communication and teamwork
• Academic writing and professional presentation skills
Key References
• UNWTO (2025). World Tourism Barometer.
• WTTC (2024). Travel & Tourism Economic Impact Report.
• Cooper, C. et al. (2020). Tourism: Principles and Practice.
• Hall, C. M. & Page, S. J. (2019). The Geography of Tourism and Recreation.
• Swarbrooke, J. & Horner, S. (2019). Consumer Behaviour in Tourism.
Course Philosophy
Tourism is more than travel — it is a global system of economic, cultural, and human exchange.
This course encourages students to think critically and act responsibly, preparing them to engage with a global industry that connects people, places, and possibilities.
- Teacher: Roxana-Elisabeta Hatos