What is the latest definition of tourism by UNWTO?

Defining Tourism: The Latest Perspective from UNWTO

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recently updated its definition of tourism, aligning it with the evolving nature of travel and the industry’s significant impact on global economies. According to the revised definition, tourism now encompasses:

• Journeys beyond one’s usual surroundings: Tourism involves traveling to destinations outside of one’s regular place of residence, regardless of the distance or mode of transportation used.
• Diverse motives: Tourism can be undertaken for a wide range of purposes, including recreation, leisure, business, religious pilgrimage, or health and wellness.
• Duration of stay: To qualify as tourism, a trip must exceed 24 hours but not exceed one year. This duration range allows for short-term vacations as well as longer-term travel experiences.
• Temporal aspect: Tourism activities must occur within a 12-month period, ensuring that they are distinct from permanent relocation or migration.

This updated definition reflects the growing significance of tourism in the global economy, as well as its multifaceted nature that encompasses both leisure and business travel. It acknowledges the diverse motivations and experiences that drive people to travel, and it provides a clear framework for understanding and measuring tourism activity.

This definition will guide UNWTO’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable and responsible tourism development worldwide. By encompassing a broad range of travel experiences, the definition ensures that the industry’s full potential can be harnessed for economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange.