The Pros and Cons of a Career in the Tourism Industry

For those of us who love the company of others just as much as we love exploring and experiencing new places, working at a career in the tourism industry can seem like the perfect fit, a great way to do what you love and make a nice living whilst you do it. If you feel like the above description suits you pretty well, then you may already have begun considering getting your career in the tourism started. But you might also be wondering if you’ll absolutely enjoy every single aspect of your new career choice. Most jobs have plenty to them that’d we’d consider to be less than ideal, and when you’re thinking about aligning yourself with something like the tourism industry, it can be smart to consider all the different aspects of your career choice, so that you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. We’ll talk about some of the ups and downs that typically come along with working in the tourist industry, so you can know exactly what you can expect.

Pros and Cons of Tourism

If you enjoy working with people, and with a lot of them, then the tourism industry is probably quite right for you. You’re going to have to deal with other individuals on a very regular basis, and if that sort of thing constantly tries your patience, you might want to rethink your career leanings. You’ll also obviously get to travel a lot, so if you have that lust for the nomadic life, then you’re likely to have a great time working in a globetrotting position within the tourism industry. You’ll also get to experience a variety of new and different cultures, whether you spend your time traveling the world or not. Working in the tourism industry is a business of both coming and going, so even if you stay in the same place you’re guaranteed to be running into a consistent variety of peoples and cultures.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Tourism

On the downside, however — working in the tourism industry involves working with people, and a lot of them. If you find yourself easily tired or irritated by the less-than-considerate actions of others, then you might think about another career choice. Patience is a virtue, but when you’re working with travelers, it’s pretty much a requirement. People can be cranky, fussy, and can demand to do things their own way, regardless of who else is involved. There are also down seasons to contend with, and when you work in the tourist industry the economy has a lot of bearing on how fruitful work is at the time. There’s a lot to consider when you’re thinking about starting your career in the tourism industry, and if you make sure you’re thinking of all the right things, then you can find yourself enjoying a long and happy career. No matter what — whether you’re giving a Brazil tour or are a docent a the Washington Monument — working with others and helping them enjoy themselves is always a rewarding and fun way to make a living.

A career in the tourism industry can be exciting and fulfilling for those who love travel, culture, and hospitality. Whether you’re working in travel agencies, event planning, hotel management, tour guiding, or working with travel technology, the tourism sector offers a variety of roles. However, like any career, it comes with its own set of advantages and challenges.

Pros of a Career in the Tourism Industry

1. Opportunity to Travel and Explore New Places

• Why it’s good: One of the most significant perks of a career in tourism is the opportunity to travel. For those who love exploring new cultures, cities, and landscapes, jobs like tour guiding, travel consulting, or working with travel agencies can offer a chance to visit beautiful destinations.

• Examples: Travel bloggers, tour operators, and cruise line employees often travel for work.

2. Diverse Career Options

• Why it’s good: The tourism industry is vast and offers diverse career opportunities. You can work in sectors like hospitality (hotel management), transportation (airlines, cruise lines), tour guiding, travel agencies, event planning, or even in the growing field of tourism technology.

• Examples: Hotel manager, event coordinator, travel agent, and destination marketing manager.

3. Customer-Facing Jobs

• Why it’s good: If you enjoy interacting with people, a career in tourism offers plenty of customer-facing roles. You get to meet people from different backgrounds, help them plan their vacations, or make their experience memorable.

• Examples: Hotel receptionists, event coordinators, or tour guides, where building relationships with customers is a key part of the job.

4. Job Satisfaction and Fulfillment

• Why it’s good: Many roles in the tourism industry can be highly rewarding as you help people create memories or have enriching experiences. Knowing that your work contributed to someone having a wonderful trip can be very fulfilling.

• Examples: Helping a family plan their dream vacation or coordinating a successful corporate event.

5. Growth and Advancement

• Why it’s good: The tourism industry is always evolving, and as the world continues to travel more, there are many opportunities for growth. Many companies offer career advancement opportunities, with some even providing training and education to move up within the organization.

• Examples: Starting as a travel agent and advancing to a managerial position or shifting to corporate tourism planning roles.

6. Social Interaction and Networking

• Why it’s good: If you’re someone who enjoys building a network and socializing, tourism offers plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Whether you’re interacting with clients, suppliers, or colleagues from different countries, the industry provides a platform to grow your professional network.

• Examples: Working in a travel agency, event coordination, or as a hotel manager where constant interaction with people is involved.

7. Flexibility in Job Locations

• Why it’s good: Tourism-related jobs can be found all around the world. If you’re someone who enjoys the idea of working in different locations, the tourism industry gives you the flexibility to work in various countries, tourist destinations, and cultural settings.

• Examples: Working as a tour guide, in an international hotel chain, or with global travel agencies.

Cons of a Career in the Tourism Industry

1. Long and Unpredictable Hours

• Why it’s challenging: Many roles in tourism require working during holidays, weekends, and late hours. Hotels and resorts are often busiest during these times, and events may be scheduled outside of regular working hours.

• Examples: Hotel managers, event planners, or tour operators often have to work evenings and weekends to accommodate customer needs.

2. Seasonal and Volatile Demand

• Why it’s challenging: The tourism industry is heavily impacted by seasons, weather, and economic conditions. Some areas have high demand during peak seasons, but the demand drops significantly during the off-peak periods. This can lead to job insecurity and fluctuating work hours.

• Examples: Ski resorts or tropical destinations that rely on specific seasons for tourists may face periods of low business.

3. High Pressure and Stressful Environments

• Why it’s challenging: Tourism roles can sometimes be stressful, especially when dealing with last-minute changes, demanding clients, or logistical issues. Managing large groups or handling complaints can be mentally and emotionally taxing.

• Examples: Event coordinators, travel agents, or hotel staff who handle customer complaints and complex arrangements.

4. Low Pay in Entry-Level Jobs

• Why it’s challenging: Many entry-level roles in tourism, such as customer service positions or junior roles in travel agencies, may offer lower salaries compared to other industries. Depending on the region and company, the pay may not be as high as in other sectors.

• Examples: A starting position as a receptionist, or a junior tour guide, may not offer high pay without years of experience.

5. Physical Demands and Exhaustion

• Why it’s challenging: Tourism jobs that involve long hours of standing, walking, or traveling can be physically demanding. For example, tour guides may have to lead groups through challenging terrains, or hotel staff might work long shifts.

• Examples: Tour guides who walk long distances or hotel staff who work extended shifts on their feet may face physical fatigue.

6. Dealing with Unpredictable Situations

• Why it’s challenging: Tourism professionals often have to handle unexpected situations, such as flight delays, last-minute cancellations, bad weather, or customer dissatisfaction. This requires a high level of problem-solving and customer service skills.

• Examples: A tour operator may have to find alternative plans for a group of tourists who encounter a sudden problem or delay.

7. Job Insecurity During Economic Downturns

• Why it’s challenging: The tourism industry is highly sensitive to economic conditions, natural disasters, political instability, or global crises (like pandemics). During economic recessions or travel bans, tourism businesses often face layoffs, salary cuts, or closures.

• Examples: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a severe downturn in travel and tourism, causing many workers to lose their jobs or face pay cuts.

8. Cultural and Language Barriers

• Why it’s challenging: If you’re working in international tourism, you may face language barriers or cultural differences that can make communication more challenging. Misunderstandings can occur, and you’ll need to be adaptable and sensitive to other cultures.

• Examples: A tour guide working in a foreign country may face challenges in communicating effectively with tourists who speak a different language.

Conclusion

A career in the tourism industry offers exciting opportunities for people who are passionate about travel, culture, and working with diverse people. With roles ranging from tour guides to event planners and travel agents, the sector is dynamic and offers potential for personal and professional growth. However, it also has its challenges, such as long hours, high stress, and the potential for job instability during downturns.

If you’re someone who enjoys flexibility, interacting with people, and the idea of contributing to others’ travel experiences, this could be a great fit. However, you need to be prepared for the physical and mental demands that come with the job.

Would you like more information about specific careers in the tourism industry or tips on getting started? Let me know!

The Pros and Cons of a Career in the Tourism Industry

Trends and skill needs in the tourism sector – Cedefop

careers opportunities in tourism