Hospitality and Tourism Glossary

A glossary of common terms used in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Hospitality and Tourism Glossary
Photo by Markus Spiske / Unsplash

Here's a glossary of common terms used in the hospitality and tourism industry:

  • Accommodation: A place where travelers can stay overnight, such as hotels, resorts, lodges, or bed and breakfasts.
  • All-inclusive: A package or rate that includes all meals, drinks, and amenities at a hotel or resort.
  • Attractions: Places or activities that are popular with tourists, such as landmarks, museums, amusement parks, or natural sites.
  • Bed and Breakfast (B&B): An accommodation that provides overnight stays and breakfast, often in a private home or small inn.
  • Concierge: A hotel staff member who assists guests with various services, such as booking tours, making restaurant reservations, or providing local information.
  • Destination: A place or location that travelers visit for leisure, business, or other purposes.
  • Ecotourism: Tourism that focuses on environmentally friendly practices and promotes the conservation of natural resources.
  • Front Desk: The reception area of a hotel or lodging establishment where guests check-in, check-out, and seek assistance.
  • Guidebook: A publication or digital resource that provides information about a particular destination, including recommendations for accommodations, attractions, and activities.
  • Hospitality: The friendly and welcoming treatment of guests, including providing quality services and creating a comfortable environment.
  • Itinerary: A detailed plan or schedule of travel, including transportation, accommodations, activities, and timings.
  • Occupancy Rate: The percentage of available rooms or accommodations that are occupied by guests during a specific period. It is often used as a measure of hotel performance.
  • Package Tour: A prearranged tour that includes transportation, accommodations, and often meals and guided activities.
  • Resort: A large commercial establishment that offers various amenities, such as accommodations, dining, recreational facilities, and entertainment, often in a scenic or recreational area.
  • Sustainable Tourism: Tourism that aims to minimize its impact on the environment, preserve local culture, and support the well-being of local communities.
  • Tour Operator: A company that organizes and sells travel packages, including transportation, accommodations, and activities.
  • Travel Agency: A business that assists travelers in planning and booking their trips, including flights, accommodations, tours, and other travel-related services.
  • Visa: An official document or endorsement issued by a country's government that allows a traveler to enter and stay in the country for a specified period.
  • Wanderlust: A strong desire or urge to travel and explore new places.
  • Yield Management: The practice of optimizing revenue and profitability in the hospitality industry by dynamically adjusting prices and inventory based on demand and market conditions.