RPTA 182: Travel and Tourism

The Union Oyster House in Boston is the US's oldest continually operating restaurant. Needless to say, with that distinction, it's one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Boston uses its history and geography to promote itself. Its age and careful preservation of sites and buildings important to the American Revolution make it desirable to Americans, and its small size geographically make it easy to walk - hence the tag line, "America's Walking City." Boston has also carefully avoided separating its history from its contemporary buildings, giving the history a "living" appearance. History is a natural draw to tourists, but tourism can easily destroy most aspects of history in a location with tacky souvenir shops, poorly done guided tours, too many strollers and the conversion of historic structures into retail centers.

Learning to successfully promote a city to tourists means balancing authenticity against the necessary marketing and management aspects of handling large numbers of people.

Official Course Description: Examination of the history, significance and nature of travel and tourism in the world with emphasis on the United States. Analyzes economic, cultural and social factors underlying development and growth of travel and tourism and a review of related research. Identification and description of travel and tourism service providers including their organization, financing and management practices.

This elective is offered in the spring only. It partners well with RPTA 184: Hospitality Administration.

Photo Credit: G. B. C. Shaw
Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism Administration Home Page