Abstract This paper explains that the travel industry makes extensive use of the Internet with one objective, to take reservations. The author points out that, for the major service providers, such as airlines, hotel chains, and retail cars, the Internet works extremely well; but, for small hotels, it is only a marketing tool. The paper reviews eleven travel websites, such as Expedia.com and the Three Village Inn of Stony Brook, NY.
Table of Contents
Expedia.com
Travelocity.com
Delta Air Lines
Aer Lingus Irish Airlines
Irish Tourist Board (Bord Failte)
West Virginia Web site
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Cedar Rapids, IA
Planet Rider
Enterprise Rent a Car
Bed and Breakfast Inns Online
Three Village Inn, Stony Brook, NY
Conclusion
From the Paper "But remember, travel is big-ticket, and people shop for it. The Internet makes it easy to run up a hundred permutations of a desired trip (arrival and departure times and days, airports, amenities at hotels, cars available, discounts on all of the above, special attractions ad infinitum) without driving a travel agent nuts. Or worse, with the would-be traveler failing to fulfill his or her heart's desire because the travel agent was worn out. So there, in short, is another piece of the travel industry marketing puzzle: Infinite customization, and at no extra cost."
Abstract This paper examines how during 2003, Toronto's tourism and hospitality industry was significantly hampered by four major crises: An outbreak of SARS, West Nile Virus, Mad Cow disease and an electrical blackout. It discusses how although every individual within the Greater Toronto area (GTA) was affected in some manner, the tourism industry was the most radically influenced and how the cumulative onslaught of the aforementioned events drastically reduced the number of visitors to the once thriving metropolis and threatened the livelihood of the city. It details the issues encountered by Toronto's tourism industry during 2003 and the recovery methods that were instituted in order to endorse the city as an attractive tourism destination.
From the Paper "In order to regain the trust of travellers, positive advertising campaigns were initiated through mass mediums to the general public to highlight the positive elements that Toronto had to offer. The majority of the campaigns launched throughout the city were aimed at promoting Toronto through two key marketing concepts. These included (1) product bundling - offering a complete package to consumers at a reduced rate, and (2) reduced pricing - discounts placed upon specific offerings of the tourism sector. These concepts were based upon a loss-leader marketing strategy, whereby a very low price is charged for a product or service to entice customers into subsequently purchasing higher cost items. Mirvish Productions initiated one of the first examples of product bundling."
Abstract The paper explains that Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, embodies everything about Italy and serves as a guide of what the city was like during the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. The author points out that the best place to stay, if on a budget, is the Mediterraneo Grand Hotel ($92) or, if a budget is no worry, the Savoy Hotel ($350). This paper contends that the best part of Florence is that the traveler can experience the big-city aspect of Florence, while having the ability to visit a rural wine colony or stay at a remote bed and breakfast and still being within easy access distance to Florence.
From the Paper "Because of Florence's historical past, there are many things to see if we visit. There are many churches, museums, art galleries, and castles that allow us to experience Florence's and Italy's past. The first site that should be on every one's to-do list is the Duomo. The Duomo has become, according to sources, the symbol of Florence, and I must say from the pictures, it is very impressive. The Duomo was a former cathedral built at the end of the Medieval period using Gothic style architecture. While it has become the symbol of Florence it has also become the center. Because of this many of the important historical and cultural events are usually found by the Duomo. Today the Duomo serves as one of the many historical cathedrals and museums."
Abstract This paper looks at the development of online tourist agents and their impact on traditional, high-street travel agents, with a focus on European consumers. The paper also looks at the reasons behind the increase in online travel bookings, through a discussion of seven hypotheses.
From the Paper "Hundreds of thousands of people are turning to the internet to book their holidays, as they realize it is cheaper, and easier. Anyone who has stood in a high street travel agent in the UK, and waited in turn to talk to someone about booking a holiday anywhere vaguely off the package tourist trail welcomed the internet with open arms, especially as prices on the internet are far lower than those offered by high street travel agents, and because the whole experience of booking your holiday is far nicer at home in front of your computer, than stuck on an uncomfortable chair, in a hot, stuffy room, trying to explain to the person behind the counter where Palermo is."
Abstract There is no question that safety measures substantially contribute to the cost of purchasing an aircraft, but the cost of safety only begins with the purchase price. Further costs are incurred in performing, logging, and storing records of maintenance procedures and routine safety inspections. This paper explains, however, that it is not possible to gauge the worth of a human life in terms of dollars, and those trusting their lives to experienced pilots and proven aircraft need to be assured that their choice to fly was a prudent one. This research shows that the effects of deregulation have created an enormous increase in air travel, as well as private ownership of aircraft. The aviation industry continues to demonstrate significant progress in achieving better safety records and enjoys an enviable safety reputation. This paper provides a review of the literature to examine the human factors as well as the hardware involved in ensuring safe air travel, followed by a description of the research methodology used. The results of the research are followed by a discussion of the issues identified and the conclusions reached as a result. The research project recommendations conclude the paper.
Acknowledgements
Abstract
List of Tables
List of Figures
Chapter
I Introduction
II Review of Relevant Literature and Research.
III. Research Methodology.
Research Technique
Research Design
Survey Population
Sources of Data
The Data Gathering Instrument
Pilot Study
Pretest
Distribution Method
Reliability
Validity
Treatment of Data and Procedures
IV. Results
V. Discussion
VI. Conclusions
VII. Recommendations
References
Appendixes
From the Paper "The first successful airplane flights did not take place until 1903. Yet today, airplanes affect the lives of people almost everywhere. Giant airliners carry passengers and cargo between the world's major cities in a matter of hours. Planes and helicopters rush medicine and other supplies to the farthest islands and deepest jungles. Farmers use airplanes to seed fields, count livestock, and spray crops. Aviation has also changed the way nations make war. Modern warfare depends on the instant striking power of jet fighters and bombers and the rapid supply capabilities of jet transports. Helicopters and other special aircraft have also been important in military aviation over the last 40 years. Hundreds of thousands of airplanes are used throughout the world. They range from small planes with room for only a pilot to enormous jumbo jets, which can carry hundreds of passengers. To produce and operate all these airplanes requires the skills of millions of workers in many countries--from the engineers who design the planes to the mechanics and pilots who service and fly them. Many government agencies also work to make flying safer and more dependable. All these activities together make up the aviation industry. The industry's two major branches are the manufacture of aircraft and aircraft components, such as engines, and the operation of airlines. The manufacture of aircraft, together with the manufacture of spacecraft, missiles, and related electronic equipment, is often called the aerospace industry."
Abstract This paper is a concise critical evaluation of the extent of sustained competitive advantage a firm can attain with the astute use of internal resources. The paper presents the thesis statement of the paper to outline the argument of the paper, followed by a literature review. The review of literature outlines the significance of the topic, the various internal resources available to tourism/hospitality organizations, and the efficient employment of these resources towards the goal of competitive advantage in light of management theories. An analysis by the author follows the literature review to critically analyze the extent of competitive advantage from an astute use of internal resources.
From the Paper "The tourism and hospitality industries are operating in a global environment. The extent of globalization introduces the organization working in the industry to compete beyond borders, besides the competition faced from within the local market. Therefore organizations need to be highly competitive to get hold of a greater share of consumers in the global markets. However, tourism and hospitality industries are sensitive to global fluctuations in demand and conditions (such as travel safety and seasonal shifts). Keeping this under consideration, organizations need to strengthen the use of their internal resources to solidify their operations in the fierce competition. This generates the need for organization to realize the importance of efficiently utilizing their internal resources towards organizational objectives."
Abstract One industry that has benefited immensely from the opening up of borders by globalization is that of tourism, which in turn, has wrought a further impact on several local economies. In fact, tourism has become the world's largest industry. This paper shows that the boom in global tourism has unfortunately also resulted in the increasing growth of "sex tourism", a phenomenon that is causing increasing concern to society and governments around the globe, leading to several worldwide organizations and governments developing and implementing programs and measures aimed at regulating and controlling sex tourism. This paper examines the interrelationship between the state and sex tourism, with particular reference to the role that the state can play in controlling the phenomena. This paper places into context the nature of sex tourism, including its definition, the profile of sex tourists, the issues involved in child sex tourism, the control of sex tourism, the power and economic relationship between sex workers and their clients, and the role of the tourism industry.
From the Paper "The fact that there seem to be more male than female sex tourists does not however imply that the existence of female sex tourism is too miniscule to cause any concern or negate the need to study. If anything, there is some reason to believe that female sex tourism may be on the rise. Take Negril in Jamaica for example, a destination known as a swinging resort, Negril attracts the majority of Jamaica's estimated 1.3 million tourists every year and many white Western women come to Negril precisely for sexual liaisons with Jamaican men (The Guardian July 12, 2003). Female sex tourism is, however, much harder to quantify and monitor due to the fact that it comprises of far more informal transactions with no prevalence of any organized male prostitution industry."
Abstract This paper is based on findings from a research project that aimed to examine the investment environment in China (Far East/Pacific Rim). The goal of the research is to assist the C.E.O of the Quality Inns Hotel Chain gather the information to analyse and evaluate the profile of the hotel industry in China. The paper identifies and discusses five main categories of facts and issues that Quality Inns Hotel Group will be facing when enter to China hotel industry, namely: market and development of the industry; political and economical environment; operational issues; suitable key strategies; and logical way and order to develop.
Abstract
Introduction
Literature Review
Economic and Political Environment
The Market and Development of the Hotel Industry in China
The Hotel Operation Issues in China
Strategies
A Logical and Effective Route of Development
Recommendation and Conclusion
From the Paper "Many studies on international business management have focused on cultural differences, cultural adjustment and adjustment failures of expatriate managers (Pizam, 1993; Hall and Hall, 1990; Francis, 1991; Lee, 1998; Tse, Francis and Walls, 1994). One study reported about a 40% failure rate of expatriates assigned to overseas positions (Tung, 1981). These failures were not the result of technical incompetence, but were because of cultural differences in the foreign country. Communication across cultures has a major impact on the effectiveness of management operations (Munter, 1993; Shuter, 1989). Since language is an important tool for communication, the expatriate manager's ability to speak the host language can enhance his management effectiveness and help gain respect from local staff (Harries and Bandin, 1973; Seward, 1975; Terpstra, 1978).
Expatriate managers in China might experience confusion, frustration and failure due to sudden government policy changes (Shenker, 1990; Stross, 1991)."
Abstract This paper examines how the future for regional jet service in the United States and abroad appears to be very bright and how regional passenger jets, defined as jet planes seating between 25 and 110 passengers, are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to the turbo-prop "puddle-jumper" aircraft businesspeople have come to associate with commuter flights in smaller markets. It provides an overview and background of regional jets, the associated cost factors and controversies, an assessment of the potential impact of the identified alternatives, and the sell-offs of regional carriers by the major carrier owners.
From the Paper "As a result of their increasing popularity, regional jets have also created their share of controversies, including claims these types of aircraft are clogging the nation's already stressed airports and issues concerning equitable pay rates for regional jet pilots compared to their mainstream aviation counterparts. ?Some say regional jets are jamming the system, but that's not true,? says Faye Malarkey, a legislative director for the Regional Airline Association (RAA). Rather, Malarkey says that regional jets are "part of the solution" (Arnoult, 2000, p. 67). Likewise, the President of the RAA, Deborah McElroy says, "We think that they are making regional jets a scapegoat. That's not appropriate. regional jets are added because that's what the passengers want" (Arnoult, 2000, p. 67). "
Abstract This paper looks at the way that tourism has impacted life of the locals on Ibiza in Spain, which is one of the best-preserved medieval islands in Europe. It discusses both positive and negative affects of the tourism boom. The writer discusses how the Ibiza Ministry of Tourism, along with the locals and tourists, need to implement plans that will stop the damage being done to historical sites and adapt a policy that will enable the island to be enjoyed by everyone.
From the Paper "A new territorial model has been made that gives no importance to the traditional architecture of the island. After hotel complexes, there were apartment blocks to fill the growing demand thus having no clear integration. Thus, there was minimum planning and development. Although there have been some positive impacts, the negative effects outweigh them. Mass tourism has shown a least regard for local resources, due to its intensity in area and time, its attitude of having minimal cost of accommodation and services, and the tourists who are naturally attracted by this low cost. Environment sustainability and the economy of the island are affected. Over exploitation of natural resources has been done, both human and physical and there has been a sort of cultural degradation in the air. (Tourism and Environment on the Island of Ibiza)"
Abstract This paper explains that both of the very successful restaurant chains, Chipotle and Applebee?s, are competing in two completely different segments of a very competitive industry, with each company targeting somewhat different customers; as such, their menus, restaurant environments and even websites reflect this. The author points outs that Chipotle targets younger, hipper clientele in urban areas who want quick food, but not fast food. Chipotle's food is inexpensive, but not the cheapest meal, and the restaurants are often located in trendy shopping centers. The paper relates that Applebee's target clientele, families and individuals residing in ?Suburbia, U.S.A.?, receive a decent meal at a fair price in freestanding locations, typically located in suburbs surrounding larger metropolitan areas. The feeling of "neighborhood" is important to Applebee's and their desired customer.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Chiptole Mexican Grill
Line of Business
Sales
Target Market
Brands
Distribution
Promotion and Pricing
Advantages and Strengths
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
Line of Business
Sales
Target Market
Brands
Distribution
Promotion and Pricing
Advantages and Strengths
Comparison of Chipotle's and Applebee's Marketing Strategies
Websites
Conclusion
From the Paper "Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar was first founded in 1980 with the opening of T.J. Applebee's Rx for Edibles and Elixirs, in Atlanta, Georgia. The concept for the restaurant was a place ?that would provide full service, consistently good food, reasonable prices, and quality service in a neighborhood setting.? This would be the beginning for what would become the Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar international franchise restaurants all sporting ?interiors festooned with local memorabilia to give each location an indigenous feel.? Applebee's now has more than 1,600 casual dining restaurants, located in the United States and nine other countries, and ?the company estimates the development potential of the Applebee's concept in the United States to be at least 2,300 restaurants.? Sales reflect this incredible growth. In 2003, Applebee's record more than $990 million in sales, up 19.8% from the previous year. They reported net income of $93.6 million, up 12.8% from 2002."
Abstract This paper explains how the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has embraced a commitment to superior quality service as means of maintaining a competitive edge. The paper explains the hotel company's efforts at quality customer service, improved productivity among employees, and the fostering of product loyalty among its customers. Also discussed is the company's history, awards it has received, its Total Quality Management approach to change, and the improvement of customer service.
Introduction
Company
History
Awards
Gold Standards
Empowering Employees to Implement an Award Winning Approach
Using TQM to Drive Change and Improve Customer Service
Challenges and Benefits
From the Paper "In today's society, consumers are often seen more as numbers than actual people. Customer service is talked about frequently, but rarely delivered upon. Customer's requests or needs that go beyond what employees typically experience often fall upon the deaf ears of apathetic employees. Complaints are often handled equally as careless. One company, however, has a reputation for being different ? Ritz-Carlton Hotels."
Abstract This paper presents a frank account of the current tourism market in Thailand. The paper discusses the diverse attractions that the country offers. The public health crisis surrounding the bird flu epidemic is outlined in the paper, and suggestions are made to rectify the situation. The paper explains Thailand's economic dependence on the tourism industry.
From the Paper "The Bird flu epidemic is thus both a public health crisis of real impact, and a potential economic crisis for a nation dependant upon tourism, and improving its public image as a safe, family-friendly destination. Thai authorities should be commended for their openness regarding the epidemic's spread, as secrecy could only lead to more rumors and innuendos. But the difficulty in stemming the tide is troubling. Only last week, Thai public health officials were forced to announce that the avian influenza had spread to poultry in four more provinces, ?meaning that the disease has infected flocks of chickens and other birds in 35 of Thailand's 76 provinces since it re-emerged in July,? and the most recent outbreaks of avian influenza indicate that the new strain can pass from human to human, "the first such instance documented" in Thailand. (Bradsher, 2004)"
Abstract This paper reviews the hotel industry, looking at the major players in the market. It provides statistics about numbers of rooms in the leading chains and where the most popular locations are. The paper then moves its focus to the Hyatt Hotels chain and examines how this fits into the global market.
From the Paper "The industry's market segments are upper-scale, upscale, mid-scale with food and beverage service, mid-scale without food and beverage service, and economy. Those in the upper segments, often large and located in major cities or resorts, serve business and convention travelers and middle-to-high-income tourists who are more particular with service quality than price (Working for America Institute 2004). Those in the lower segments are mostly smaller, located in major areas and more particular about price than quality of service."
Abstract This report presents an overview of Hilton International (HI), an operating division of the parent company Hilton Group. The report presents HI within the global hotel industry and explores many facets of the business within this global context. It explains that the overall nature of the hotel industry is volatile and heavily influenced by several forces.
Outline
Summary
Introduction
Background
Legal and Financial
Size and Structure
Products and Services
Customers and Market
Employment
Policy Statements
Conclusion
Appendix 1 - HI Hotel Summary
Appendix 2 - US Tourism Industry Summary
Bibliography
From the Paper "Hilton International (HI) is a global leader in the hotel segment of the tourism industry, with 98% brand recognition. HI has worldwide rights to the Hilton brand, excluding the United States. HI was spun off from Hilton Hotels Corporation in 1964 as a separate entity, and was acquired by the Hilton Group plc in 1987. HI currently operates over 500 hotels (almost 400 under the Hilton brand) in nearly 80 countries around the world, and is currently in expansion mode including through the use of lease arrangements and management contracts. HI is one of three divisions of the parent company Hilton Group plc, and contributes approximately 40% of overall profits to the parent company. HI caters to a four- and five-star hotel clientele. HI has struggled over the past year to minimize losses due to a difficult time within the overall tourism industry. However by repositioning its marketing strategy to target local markets instead of global audiences, losses have been slowed to 30% over the previous year's earnings. HI employs a variety of programs to support its 65,000-strong workforce to pursue service excellence including its Esprit rewards program. HI demonstrates social corporate responsibility through programs such as its Hilton in the Community program that currently supports six primary charities that relate to the tourism industry."
