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Tourism Supply Network Components

Sep 7, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the key components of tourism and hospitality supply networks, focusing on the essential resources and infrastructure that support the industry.

Tourism & Hospitality Supply Components

  • Tourism and hospitality rely on interconnected supply networks to deliver services to travelers and guests.
  • Key supply components include natural resources, infrastructure, superstructure, transportation, transportation equipment, and hospitality resources.

Natural Resources

  • Natural resources are the original attractions, such as landscapes, beaches, and climate, that draw tourists to a destination.

Infrastructure

  • Infrastructure refers to basic systems like roads, water supply, electricity, communication, and sanitation needed to support tourism operations.

Superstructure

  • Superstructure includes buildings and facilities specifically designed for tourism, such as hotels, resorts, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Transportation and Transportation Equipment

  • Transportation covers the systems and services for moving people, including airlines, buses, railways, and ships.
  • Transportation equipment is the actual vehicles used, such as planes, buses, trains, and cars.

Hospitality Resources

  • Hospitality resources are the human elements and services that provide comfort and satisfaction, including accommodations, food service, and customer care.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Natural Resources — Original attractions and environmental features that attract tourists.
  • Infrastructure — Basic physical and organizational structures supporting tourism.
  • Superstructure — Purpose-built facilities for tourism and hospitality services.
  • Transportation — Systems and methods for moving tourists between locations.
  • Transportation Equipment — Vehicles used in the transport of tourists.
  • Hospitality Resources — Services and staff that ensure guest comfort and satisfaction.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review each supply component and identify examples in your local tourism industry.
  • Prepare for next class by reading about the role of supply networks in tourism operations.