Types of Tourism and Sports Based on Accessibility and Preference
Types of Tourism
- Tourism can be categorized by cost, duration, and destination.
Cost: Budget vs. Luxury
- Budget Travel: Affordable options like hostels, camping, and public transportation.
- Luxury Tourism: High-end experiences such as five-star resorts, private tours, and fine dining.
When analyzing tourism costs, consider not just accommodation but also transportation, activities, and dining.
Duration: Short vs. Long
- Weekend Getaways: Short trips to nearby destinations, popular for urban dwellers seeking a quick escape.
- Long-Haul Vacations: Extended trips to distant locations, often requiring more planning and resources.
A weekend trip to a nearby city (city break) contrasts with a two-week safari in one of Africa's national parks like Etosha National Park (Namibia), Kruger National Park (South Africa), Okavango Delta (Botswana), or Serengeti National Park (Tanzania).
Destination: Urban, Rural, Coastal, or Adventure
- Urban Tourism: Focuses on cities with cultural attractions, shopping, and nightlife.
- Rural Tourism: Emphasizes nature, tranquility, and local culture.
- Coastal Tourism: Centers on beaches and water activities.
- Adventure Tourism: Involves activities like hiking, skiing, or diving in remote areas.
Note that cost, duration, and destination are not the only ways to categorize tourism. There is also distinction between mass and niche tourism and within these there are multiple types of tourism (e.g. heritage tourism, wilderness tourism, ecotourism, etc.)
Self review- What type of tourism do you prefer?
- How do cost, duration, and destination influence your choice?
Types of Sporting Activities
- Sporting activities vary based on cost, popularity, and site requirements.
Cost: Free vs. High-Cost
- Free Activities: Running, cycling, or playing football in public spaces.
- High-Cost Activities: Skiing, golfing, or yachting, which require specialized equipment and facilities.
Running in a park is accessible to most people, while skiing in the Alps involves significant expenses for equipment, travel, and accommodation.
NoteDon't assume high-cost sports are always inaccessible. Many ski resorts offer discounts or rental options to attract beginners.
Popularity: Mass vs. Niche
- Mass Sports: Widely played and watched, such as football, basketball, or swimming.
- Niche Sports: Specialized activities like rock climbing, fencing, or curling, often with smaller followings.
