Tourism is a multi-billion dollar business with hundreds of millions of travellers arriving in destinations across the world every year, but there's a lot more to tourism than just the tourists. Before you even leave home you probably use a number of services. You book your trip through a tour operator, if it's a package holiday, or a travel agent, if you want to buy products and services like flights separately.
These days, many people book directly online with companies that offer both organised and independent travel. You usually need to purchase airline, train, ferry and coach tickets to your holiday resort in advance to reserve a seat and get a good price. If you're hiring a car it's also a good idea to book in advance, but you can arrange local transport like taxis and buses when you're there. You also need to book accommodation to be sure to stay where you want, when you want. There is a wide range of options for different people and pockets: from luxury hotels to roadside motels, family-run guesthouses or B&Bs (Bed and Breakfasts), to self-catering apartments to youth hostels. You can decide about hospitality (catering and entertainment) during your holiday, unless you book it with I your accommodation. B&B means you get breakfast included in the price of your stay. Half board, usually only available at hotels, means breakfast and dinner are included. Full board means breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. This option is common on package or cruise ship holidays to keep the cost down, as are all inclusive leisure activities such as sport, shopping and live shows. Most places have a Tourist Information Point where they give you free information about what to see and do and how to get around. Organised trips often have travel reps (representatives) on hand to help you, but you can also pay a local tour guide to take you sightseeing or show you tourist attractions.