No matter what type of tourism industry you wish to enter, a foreign language background can be helpful. Aside from being able to communicate with foreign guests, you also have a better understanding of the culture. This is especially helpful if you want to specialize in a certain location of the world.
The travel industry uses different programs and documents than other industries because of regulations. At travel schools, a student will likely take classes such as Into to BSP System and Language, BSP Standards and Documents, and Global Distribution System Fares and Tracking. These classes teach you the necessary computer programs you must use, as well as regulations and standards.
Working in hotel management or as a travel agent, you need to understand geography in relation to the tourism industry. Classes such as Geography in Travel Planning explore different places travelers wish to go or what areas benefit different types of travelers. Travel agents, in particular, must understand where countries are located on a map and their geographical features.
No matter what type of tourism industry you enter, you need a background in business. To run a successful restaurant or hotel, you must take communication and business management courses. Business marketing and knowledge about promotions are also important to attract customers to your business.