National Tourism Week

A time dedicated solely to exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and breaking free from the ho-hum daily grind, National Tourism Week is a week-long festivity that raises a toast wanderlust by inviting everyone to embrace the joy of travel and tourism.

History of National Tourism Week

The tourism industry is older than most people realize. Its roots go back around 2,000 years and it all started with the concept of pilgrimage in Eastern civilizations before spreading to the West. These pilgrimages took people of faith to fantastic places, such as early Buddhist sites and Mecca.

Fast-forward to 1660. That’s when tourism in the Western world began to evolve into an educational rite of passage for young British nobility and the wealthy gentry. The century brought with it the idea of the Grand Tour, a journey through cultural sites in France, Germany, and Italy. The Grand Tour was incredibly popular among upper-class European students. This era marked the beginning of travel for leisure, health, and cultural enrichment, a privilege initially reserved for only a few.

By the 19th century, the development of railways and shipping lines had turned the burgeoning tourism industry upside down. It made travel accessible and affordable to even more people, and the Grand Tour expanded to include more European destinations, no longer confined to certain countries.

In the 20th century, cruises began to become fashionable and more affordable. They offered incredible trips by sea to the most incredible destinations, such as the cool, blue Norwegian fjords and dazzling azure Caribbean islands. This period also saw the rise of guidebooks and travel companies — resources that played a key role in shaping modern tourism.

How to Celebrate National Tourism Week

Embark on a Local Adventure

People no longer have to cross oceans for a memorable experience. They can explore hidden gems in their own backyard, by visiting a nearby town they’ve never been to, or taking a day trip to a local attraction.

Cultural Immersion at Home

Can’t travel far? No problem! Create an international evening at home to celebrate National Travel Week. Cook a meal from a different country, play traditional music, and learn about a new culture right from the comfort of the living room.

Travel Planning Party

Gather friends or family during the celebratory week, and host a travel planning party. Dream up the next big adventure — create dreamy itineraries and share travel tips and hacks.

Virtual Tours

Today’s technology can bring the world to PCs, smartphones, and tablets. Courtesy of video blogs (vlogs), anyone can take virtual tours of epic museums, historical sites, and natural wonders. Every spot imaginable is just a few quick clicks away.

Photography Challenge

Capture the essence of the city or a beloved place by taking photographs and sharing them through social media. This contribution can help others gain a better understanding of why this spot is so treasured.

Support Local Tourism

No one should fear being a tourist in their own community — local sites will appreciate the support! Visit a local history museum, dine at a restaurant serving up local cuisine, or book a night at a quaint B&B close to home. Supporting local businesses is a great way to celebrate the spirit of tourism.

Travel Journaling

Start a travel journal. Document the highlights of past trips or plan future ones. Include photos, tickets, and other souvenirs. Use bright markers or stickers to make notes and create cute captions.

Learn a New Language

Ever wanted to travel but have fears about bridging the gap in communication? Kickstart those travel dreams by learning that country’s language with the wealth of available apps and online language tutorials.

Tourism Trivia Night

During National Tourism Week, host a fun-filled evening of travel-themed trivia. Challenge guests’ knowledge of world capitals, famous historical sites and landmarks, and global cultures.

Relive Past Travels

Spend an evening with friends or loved ones reminiscing about past travels. Share stories, and look through photos. Who knows? It might even inspire plans for the next great adventure.

National Tourism Week is an exhilarating invitation to explore and appreciate the wondrous world of travel and tourism. From local adventures and cultural immersions at home to virtual tours and travel planning parties, there’s a world of experiences that await.

So consider National Tourism Week as a gateway to discovering new places and reminiscing about all those unforgettable memories. It is the perfect time to reignite that wanderlust and celebrate the joy of exploration!