An investigation into Tourism on the Santa Cruz Riviera, California. (inc. prefield trip report and

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An investigation into Tourism on the Santa Cruz Riviera, California. (inc. prefield trip report and

INTRODUCTION

Tourism can be defined as a temporary visit to an area outside the place of residence for leisure (recreation, holiday, health, study, religion and sport) or business reasons (Hoivik & Heiburg, 1980). It has become a very large business, one of the largest businesses in the world today. With annual receipts for both domestic and international tourism exceeding U.S.$2 trillion, it constitutes approximately 12 % of the world economy (Ulack, 1994). Although tourism is recognized for its impact on societies and the environment, the principle concern for host regions is its economic impacts. The industry is a large earner of foreign exchange, causing an improvement in the balance of payments situation and an increase in financial resources for development. Very important for the host areas tourism is a major source of employment and provides jobs in many services such as hotels, restaurants, entertainment facilities and travel agencies. The money earned through the industry spreads via the multiplier effect, thus facilitating regional development. In addition to the benefits of tourism to the local economies, there are certain costs to be considered, such as