Tourism

The tourism industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK. Between 2014 and 2024, the tourism industry needs to recruit 1.3 million people. 319 million jobs are supported by the Travel and Tourism sector. This is 10% of global employment. By 2029, Travel & Tourism will account for 154 million jobs globally, an increase of 2.1% over the next ten years.

Future Trends

Tourism around the world is booming and like other sectors, it’s adapting to advances in technology. Due to digital methods to make bookings more easily, people can now take virtual tours to experience what it is like in destinations. VR can also allow tourists to “visit” destinations that are too fragile for physical tours, such as archeological sites, for example structures can be recreated in VR and tourists can enjoy the experience of walking around them unimpeded. This means companies are looking for ways to make it easier for people to make their bookings and roles such as Digital Marketer, SEO (search engine optimization) Specialist, Virtual Reality Expert and Web Designer can all play a part in attracting more visitors.

Robots, chatbots and automation

Hotels will install interactive robots to handle certain reception duties or even using them to serve food and drink to visitors. Many customers now book their travel and accommodation with the help of internet chatbots, specifically tailored AR who can handle queries and assist customers with useful information when human operators are unavailable.

AR smartphone apps can show tourists information about the area they are exploring. This could be historical details about buildings and landmarks, or listings and menus for entertainment venues and local eateries.

In demand: Digital Marketing Specialists | Chefs | Front of House Staff | Waiting Staff | Kitchen Manager | Social Media Manager

Large companies in London include: Hilton | Marriott International | Thomas Cook | InterContinental Hotels Group | TUI Travel PLC

Types of apprenticeships include: Event Assistant | Chef | Restaurant Manager| Customer Service Adviser |Travel Consultant | Digital Marketer | Creative Venue Technician | Museum Assistant | Web Designer | Kitchen Assistant | Web Content Editor | Waitress

Routes in: There are several routes into a career in cultural and tourism and you don’t necessarily need specific qualifications to start, if you can show dedication. Those who do a degree in a subject related to tourism, can gain a place on a graduate scheme and may be able to start higher up the ladder but it’s possible to also reach management positions through apprenticeship routes.