Capitalising on Travel and Tourism in Preparing for Trouble 978-0-8232-5018-9

Editors: Cahill, K.M.

Pages: 175-197

Publisher: Fordham University Press

Place of Publication: New York

Abstract:

Both travel and tourism and emergency managers plan and operate at an international, national, regional and local level. In both cases their activities affect, and indeed depend upon, the safety of local communities. They are faced with situations, both foreseen and unforeseen, that have, by definition, overwhelmed their capacity using everyday resources. As a result they both require their operations and logistics to be integrated in as efficient a way as possible across communities at the regional, national, and even international levels. In times of emergency they both depend heavily upon the same limited resources including hospitals, medical teams, transportation, evacuation centres, temporary shelters, food and water distribution points, and both contribute to, and are affected by the impacts of ongoing national and local development initiatives. Whilst the theme 'More with Less' inevitably implies achieving more with less money, it is also possible that more can be achieved with different money, less duplication, and better leadership. This chapter seeks to suggest ways in which capitalising on the needs and capabilities of travel and tourism can greatly assist national governments and international agencies in preparing for, and responding to disasters. This chapter is by no means exhaustive and is intended to be indicative only. Furthermore, whilst it is recognised that terms such as ‘disaster’, ‘emergency’ and ‘crisis’, are still subject to different interpretations in disaster management and travel and tourism literature it is the purpose of this chapter to focus on the unique contribution that travel and tourism can make in times of trouble.

Source: Manual