Background

The World Bank, USAID, and others have noted that economic growth for many of the developing countries requires support for companies operating in industries in areas of high growth potential.  One of these industries is tourism. This program is aimed at identifying the special potential provided by tourism targeted at the international market and the different ways it can impact on economic development. Practical approaches to spread tourism's benefits in poor communities are presented and discussed, and recommendations are made for the different stakeholders involved. 

How can a CEI program help?

Many of the leaders in the tourism industry of developing countries have little experience outside their own country.  As a result, they are unaware of the full range of services that are expected, and are available to the international traveler.  This program will expose these industry leaders to industry practices in various sections of the United States.  Visits to tour operators will indicate what tourists from the U.S. expect in terms of goods and services.  New ideas will be generated and contacts made. 

Topics to be covered

  • Industry overview

  • Identifying potential attractions

  • Industry standards

  • Education programs

  • Accommodations

  • Travel arrangements and the use of the internet

  • Historic sites

  • Natural wonders

  • Accreditation

  • Industry start-up and operation

  • Associations

 What will the mission see?

The mission will travel extensively to visit organizations and tourist sites in the eastern part of the U.S.  Visits will be to:

  • Lodging and restaurant requirements

  • State and local tourism promotion organizations using print, video, internet, etc.

  • Sites of historic and natural interest

  • Chambers of commerce

  • Visitor centers and souvenir shops

  • Hotel and restaurant training schools

  • Entertainment centers

  • Aquatic and specialty sports areas

  • Training schools

  • Tour operators

  • Culinary institutes

The actual sites will depend to some degree on the specific possibilities in the developing country. 

Expected Benefits

New ideas will be learned and the participants will be able to see the standards of service and accommodations that are expected by the international travelers.  They will also be able to learn from organizations that promote the tourism industry and will be able to develop their own ideas which they will be able to implement at home. 

Benefits of a CEI mission

Participants will be able to help develop their own individual plans and ideas that will help them take advantage of the opportunities afforded to them in their own country.  They will be able to see many “best practices” and be able to select for implementation the ones that are most applicable to their organization or area of responsibility.

 

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