AC 4.1

Introduction

Many tourists do not just to want to sit on a beach or laze around doing nothing, and often the weather in the UK is too cold for sunbathing! Most tourists want to explore the destination and find out about its history, landscapes, famous places etc.

Tourist types

Leisure tourists – those who have not visited the destination before will want to visit the most important attractions, viewpoints, heritage sites, etc. Those who have been before may well visit places they have not seen in the past. Alternatively, they could visit their favourite places again.

Business tourists – are less likely to have time to do much sightseeing but may visit one or two attractions.

Different ages – families with younger children may be limited to which sites are accessible to pushchairs but will be able to visit a wide range of attractions etc. within the destination. Younger couples may well want to take part in a range of activities as well as doing tours and visiting attractions. Older people with cars will want to visit a range of attractions. Those without their own transport could take part in tours.

Different cultures – many tourists from overseas will want to visit the most famous and popular attractions. Information provided in different languages could be provided.

Products and services

• Any of the built attractions in the area can improve their products and services.
• National Parks, AONBs etc. can provide additional facilities such as signposted walks etc.
• Country Parks can offer programmes of events.
• New cycle routes can be developed.
• National Trust properties can provide additional services such as education programmes.
• Coastal areas can provide new facilities.
• A new programme of guided walks can be provided.
• Viewpoints can add new disabled facilities.

Promotion

• Each of the facilities and attractions can promote their products and services either through their own marketing or through a tourist board.
• A DMO can work with individual facilities and attractions to promote the area.
• The attractions can work together to promote the destination.

Organisational involvement

• The organisations which manage the different facilities and attractions will make decisions about their development. These could range from Parish Councils to National Park Authorities.
• Public and private sector organisations will be involved.
• DMOs might co-ordinate the development of partnerships.

Funding

• Private sector organisations will need to find funds from profits or from loans.
• Voluntary sector organisations, such as National Trust properties may obtain funds from donations and membership fees.
• Public sector organisations will gain funds from central or local government

Make some notes about how attractions and facilities in the area which might be explored by tourists can increase the appeal of the destination.