Tourism can be a challenging subject for students because it is both dynamic and susceptible to economic turbulence and shifts in trends. Tourism: A Modern Synthesis is an essential textbook for tourism students seeking a clear and comprehensive introduction to their studies that addresses these challenges.

1. Introduction to tourism: Themes, concepts and issues. 2. The evolution and development of tourism. 3. Understanding tourism demand. 4. Understanding the tourist as a consumer. 5. Understanding and managing tourism supply: An introductory framework. 6. Information communication technologies in tourism. 7. Travel intermediaries: Tour operators and agents. 8. Transporting the tourist. 9. Visitor attractions. 10. Tourism accommodation and hospitality services. 11. Human resource management in tourism. 12. Tourism and entrepreneurship. 13. The role of the public sector in tourism. 14. Marketing tourism. 15. Marketing tourism destinations. 16. Economic impacts. 17. Social and cultural impacts. 18. Environmental impacts. 19. The challenge of sustainability. 20. Urban tourism. 21. Rural tourism. 22. Coastal and resort tourism. 23. Tourism in the less developed world. 24. Planning and managing the tourist experience. 25. Tourist health and safety: Global challenges for tourism. 26. Event tourism. 27. The future of tourism.