Western and Southern Europe

The world’s leading destination regions

Objectives

• To learn about the physical and cultural characteristics of Europe

• To learn about travel patterns to, from and within the region

• To learn about the tourism characteristics of the region including major attractions, destination areas and tourism issues.

Physical characteristics of Europe

•What are the main physical characteristics of Europe?

–climate–Topography–Landforms–vegetation

Sognefjord, Norway

Jostedalsbreen Glacier, Norway

Human and cultural characteristics

•What are the human and cultural characteristics of Europe?

–People–History–Politics–Food–Arts–Leisure–traditions

Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dam in France

Travel patterns to, from and within Europe•Europeans are the world’s largest travel market•They are also the recipients of the most visitors•This is due to a) proximity of countries, b) transport system, c) wealth of the population, d) historical travel, and e) long vacations•Recently the EURO has facilitated travel within Europe

•The main international market for most European countries are other European visitors.•The make up of markets differs country by country.•Tourism Trends to Europe

Tourism characteristics

•Major travel destinations•European cities

–London–Paris–Amsterdam–Munich–Athens–Rome–Madrid–Vienna

•Alps•Mediterranean coast

•Travel products–Historical tourism–Shopping tourism–Backpacking–Outdoor recreation–Beaches–Arts and culture

European cities

• Watch the video : European cities• Take notes on the distinguishing

features of each city. What makes it an attractive destination for visitors?

• Try to locate some of the major attractions in each city.

Southern Europe

Geographic characteristics•Mediterranean climate•Mountain barrier from Western Europe•Three major peninsulas•Increased wealth as part of EU•Common cultural heritage•Romantic languages•Populations along coasts and riverine plains

Tourism characteristics

•Sun-sea and sand destination•Costs are lower than other parts of Europe•Religious pilgrimages•Cruise excursions•Destination oriented and highly localized•Archaeological and cultural heritage are key products

Major tourism destinations•Capitals•Venice, Italy•Florence, Italy•Rome and the Vatican•Area around Naples•Balearic Islands and Coasts of Spain•Madrid•Barcelona•Lisbon •Algarve•Athens•Island of Peloponnisos•The Greek Islands

Resources to learn more about Europe• Lonely Planet Western Europe• European Travel Commission ETC• Tourism and the European Union