Tourism Packaging - definition, components

Tourism packaging is the process of combining various travel components such as

accommodation, transportation, activities, and other services to create a complete travel
experience for tourists. The purpose of tourism packaging is to offer a convenient, cost-effective
and attractive travel option to tourists. The components of tourism packaging include:

1. Accommodation: The type of accommodation included in the package may vary

depending on the type of tour package. It can range from budget to luxury hotels,
resorts, and vacation rentals.
2. Transportation: The mode of transportation included in the package can range from
flights, trains, buses, car rentals, and transfers to and from the airport or hotel.
3. Activities: Tour packages may also include various activities such as sightseeing tours,
adventure activities, cultural experiences, and culinary tours.
4. Meals: Some packages may include meals, either at the accommodation or at local
restaurants.
5. Tour guides: The services of a professional tour guide may be included in some packages.
6. Travel insurance: Some packages may include travel insurance to protect tourists in case
of any unforeseen events.
7. Other services: Other services that may be included in a tour package include visa
assistance, language translation services, and airport pick-up and drop-off.

The components of tourism packaging may vary depending on the target market, budget, and
destination. The key to successful tourism packaging is to understand the needs and preferences
of the target market and create a package that provides value for money and an enjoyable travel
experience.

Types of Package Tour

There are several types of package tours that are designed to cater to the diverse needs and
preferences of travelers. Here are some of the most common types of package tours:

1. All-inclusive tours: These tours are designed to offer a complete travel experience, with all
expenses included in the package, including accommodation, meals, transportation,
activities, and other services.
2. Adventure tours: These tours are designed for travelers seeking outdoor adventure and
include activities such as hiking, trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris.
3. Cultural tours: These tours are designed to offer travelers an opportunity to explore the
cultural heritage of a destination, with visits to historical sites, museums, and other
cultural attractions.
4. Educational tours: These tours are designed for students and teachers and offer an
opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and language of a destination through
visits to educational institutions, museums, and cultural centers.
5. Eco-tours: These tours are designed to promote responsible tourism and offer travelers
an opportunity to explore natural environments while minimizing the negative impact on
the environment.
6. Luxury tours: These tours are designed for travelers seeking high-end accommodations,
exclusive experiences, and personalized service.
 7. Cruise tours: These tours combine a cruise experience with land-based activities and can
range from short excursions to long-haul voyages.
8. Sports tours: These tours are designed for sports enthusiasts and include activities such
as golfing, skiing, and surfing.
9. Religious tours: These tours are designed for pilgrims and offer an opportunity to visit
holy sites, attend religious events, and participate in spiritual practices.
10. Special interest tours: These tours cater to specific interests such as food, wine, music,
and art, and offer an opportunity to explore the destination through the lens of the
interest.

Tour Package Designing and Developing Process

Tour package designing and developing process involves several steps, including:

1. Research: The first step in designing a tour package is to conduct thorough research
about the destination, target market, competition, and the latest travel trends. This will
help in identifying the unique selling points of the destination and understanding the
needs and preferences of the target market.
2. Conceptualization: Once the research is completed, the next step is to conceptualize the
tour package, including the type of tour, duration, inclusions, and price point. This is
where the tour package's theme, itinerary, and travel components are decided.
3. Costing and Pricing: Once the conceptualization is done, the next step is to determine the
costs associated with the package, including accommodation, transportation, meals, and
activities. The price point is then decided based on the costs and the target market.
4. Negotiations with suppliers: The tour operator needs to negotiate with suppliers such as
hotels, transportation providers, and activity organizers to get the best possible rates and
availability.
5. Contracting and Booking: Once the suppliers are finalized, contracts are signed, and
bookings are made. It is essential to ensure that all the components are available and
coordinated to avoid any last-minute cancellations or changes.
6. Promotion and Marketing: The tour package is then promoted and marketed through
various channels, including digital marketing, social media, and travel agencies. Effective
promotion and marketing can increase the tour package's visibility and attract potential
customers.
7. Feedback and Evaluation: After the tour package is launched, customer feedback is
collected and evaluated to understand the package's strengths and weaknesses. This
helps in identifying areas of improvement and enhancing the package's overall quality.

Tour package designing and developing is an ongoing process that requires continuous research,
innovation, and evaluation to stay relevant and competitive in the dynamic travel industry.

Destination and market and Demand and Dimensions of Tourism

Destination and Market:

A destination is a place that tourists visit, and it can be a city, region, country, or even a continent.
The destination's attractiveness and appeal depend on various factors, such as the natural and
cultural resources, infrastructure, safety, accessibility, and amenities. Tour operators and travel
agencies create tour packages that highlight the destination's unique selling points and offer an
enjoyable and memorable experience to the tourists.

The market refers to the group of people or target audience who are interested in traveling to a
particular destination. The market can be segmented based on various factors, such as age,
gender, income, lifestyle, and travel preferences. Understanding the market's needs and
preferences is crucial in creating tour packages that cater to their requirements and expectations.

Demand and Dimensions of Tourism:

Tourism demand refers to the willingness and ability of people to travel to a particular
destination for leisure, business, or other purposes. The tourism demand can be influenced by
various factors, such as economic conditions, political stability, environmental concerns, and
social trends.

The dimensions of tourism refer to the various aspects or components of the tourism industry,
such as accommodation, transportation, attractions, activities, and amenities. The dimensions can
be classified into four categories:

1. Natural resources: The natural resources include the destination's climate, landscape,
flora, and fauna.
2. Cultural resources: The cultural resources include the destination's history, art,
architecture, religion, and traditions.
3. Built resources: The built resources include the destination's infrastructure, such as
accommodation, transportation, and amenities.
4. Human resources: The human resources include the destination's hospitality and tourism
workforce, such as tour guides, hotel staff, and restaurant workers.

The tourism industry's success depends on creating a balance between the dimensions of
tourism, satisfying the tourists' needs and expectations, and conserving the destination's
resources for future generations.

Tourism and GPS

Global Positioning System (GPS) technology has had a significant impact on the tourism industry,
providing tourists with a range of benefits and enhancing their overall travel experience. Here are
some ways in which GPS technology is used in tourism:

1. Navigation: GPS technology helps tourists navigate their way around an unfamiliar
destination. With GPS-enabled devices like smartphones, tourists can access maps,
directions, and real-time traffic information. This helps them to plan their itinerary, avoid
getting lost, and find their way to tourist attractions, restaurants, and other destinations.
2. Personalization: GPS technology can be used to personalize the tourist experience.
Tourists can receive customized recommendations and offers based on their location,
preferences, and past behavior. This can help them discover new places, get insider tips,
and have a more personalized travel experience.
3. Safety and security: GPS technology can help ensure the safety and security of tourists. It
can be used to track the location of tourists, provide emergency alerts and assistance,
 and offer real-time updates on safety concerns such as natural disasters, crime, and
terrorism.
4. Tour planning and booking: GPS technology can also help tourists plan and book their
tours. With GPS-enabled apps and websites, tourists can research and book tours,
attractions, and activities, and receive real-time updates on availability, prices, and
promotions.

Overall, GPS technology has transformed the way tourists travel and interact with destinations,
making it easier, safer, and more personalized. The tourism industry is continually adapting and
integrating new technologies to enhance the tourist experience and remain competitive in the
market.