Overview
This lecture covers famous world tourism icons, typical exam questions, reasons these sites are classified as icons, and the difference between an attraction and an icon.
Understanding Tourism Icons
- Icons are famous landmarks that attract tourists due to their symbolic or cultural significance.
- Despite differences, all icons serve the purpose of attracting visitors.
Types of Exam Questions
- Expect to identify icons from pictures provided in exams.
- Common questions include naming the continent, describing the icon, explaining its significance, and comparing visitor numbers.
- Questions will always include images of the icons.
Key World Tourism Icons and Descriptions
- Dome of the Rock (Jerusalem, Israel): Islamic shrine, third holiest site in Islam, located on the Temple Mount, built in 691 AD, octagonal shape, gold-plated dome (now aluminum).
- Parthenon (Athens, Greece): 2,500-year-old temple on Acropolis hill, built for goddess Athena, symbol of Greek civilization, damaged in 1687 explosion.
- Taj Mahal (Agra, India): White marble mausoleum built as a symbol of love, regarded as a masterpiece of architecture.
- Blue Mosque (Istanbul, Turkey): Iconic for its blue tiles and unique structure.
- Eiffel Tower (Paris, France): Distinctive iron tower, symbol of France.
- Mount Fuji (Tokyo, Japan): Famous volcanic mountain and symbol of Japan.
- Chichen Itza (Yucatan, Mexico): Ancient Mayan pyramid, man-made.
- Petra (Wadi Musa, Jordan): Ancient city carved into rock.
- French Riviera (Nice, France): Coastal region known for its beauty.
- Mount Everest (Kathmandu, Nepal): World's highest mountain, important to climbers.
- Mecca (Saudi Arabia): Holiest city in Islam, site of pilgrimage.
- Swiss Alps (Switzerland): Notable mountain range, famous for winter sports.
- Windmills (Netherlands): Historic structures for water management, found throughout the country.
Distinguishing Attractions vs. Icons
- An attraction is any place, building, or event of interest due to history, culture, nature, or entertainment.
- An icon is a globally recognized attraction with symbolic meaning closely linked to its location.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Icon — A world-famous attraction with symbolic value, closely linked to a destination.
- Tourist Attraction — A location or event that draws visitors for its historical, cultural, natural, or entertainment value.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Study and memorize the images, locations, and reasons why each icon is significant.
- Learn to distinguish between icons and general tourist attractions.
- Prepare to answer exam questions based on the format discussed.