Tourism development refers to the growth and maintenance of the tourism industry in a given locality. And, of course, planning is a very important part of this. On a basic level, tourism development can be defined as creating strategies and plans to increase/develop/encourage tourism for a destination. Global tourism industry has a large been improving since the nineteen century, when the earliest travellers were walking or riding domesticated animals. The invention of technology has provided new modes of transportation and increased individuals' opportunities to travel. There are three basic forms of tourism: domestic tourism, inbound tourism, and outbound tourism. The tourism industry is important for the benefits it brings and due to its role as a commercial activity that creates demand and growth for many more industries. Tourism not only contributes towards more economic activities but also generates more employment, revenues and play a significant role in development. Thomas Cook, founder of the international travel agency, was born in Quick Close in Melbourne on 22nd November 1808. Having been brought up a strict Baptist, young Cook had a string of jobs such as gardener, cabinet maker and printer, before becoming a Baptist Missionary when he was only twenty. As an industry, tourism breaks down barriers between communities and encourages a free and open exchange of people and ideas. Tourism is often among the first industries to emerge in post-conflict regions. Carefully implemented, tourism can thrive in transnational regions where other industries struggle. Types of tourism: 1. Recreational tourism 2. Environmental tourism 3. Historical tourism 4. Ethnic tourism 5. Cultural tourism 6. Adventure tourism 7. Health tourism 8. Religious tourism Tourism comprises the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year (12 months) for leisure, business or other purposes. Included are expenses paid before the trip or after it. Tourism is the activities of people traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for leisure, business or other purposes for not more than one consecutive year. Many destinations and its population rely on tourism dollars. The money that tourists spend contributes to tax revenues, jobs, income, sales, lodging, transportation, retail, and much more. The importance of tourism on the economy shouldn't be overlooked. As such, tourism is a product of modern social arrangements, beginning in western Europe in the 17th century, although it has antecedents in Classical antiquity. Tourists on a section of the Great Wall of China near Beijing. What causes tourism? More Paid Holidays- People tend to take many small holidays rather than one big one. Increase in amount of Disposable income- People can afford to treat them. Awareness of attractions- People are becoming more aware of travel from travel shows and advertising. What is growth of tourism? Tourists are people who travel away from their homes for pleasure. Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world and it generates a lot of jobs. The money spent by tourists adds to the wealth of countries (economic growth). Tourism is the practice of traveling somewhere for fun. When someone goes on vacation, this is an example of tourism. The businesses that cater to visitors are an example of tourism.