Compare and Contrast British Tourism Policy vs. Maltese Tourism Policy

Introduction The report presents an overview of the national and international tourism policies that have been drafted and implemented throughout the years. I will compare and contrast the Maltese Tourism Policy (2006 & 2012) with the British Tourism Policy (2011). Goeldner and Ritchie (2009) identify a tourism policy as a set of regulations, rules, guidelines, directives, and development/promotion objectives and strategies that provide a framework within which the collective and individual decisions affecting long-term tourism development and the daily activities within a destination are taken†. The main purpose of any tourism policy is to generate income and create employment. In fact, tourism is one of the crucial generators of income all around the world. In this case, the two countries; Malta and England are largely dependent on this industry so it is of particular importance that they adapt an effective policy. Malta’s Tourism Policy 2012; new set of challenges As the preceding Policy came to an end, a couple of months ago the Maltese government drafted a new tourism policy planned for the years 2012-2016. It has been also launched online for a four week period of consultation from the public. By this, the policy has also acknowledged the importance of including the locals. This was one of the primary difference that the current policy shown improvement from the previous one. In addition, drafting a second policy means that the former policy has successfully generated positive results. The Tourism Policy of 2012, acknowledge that compared with the situation of the previous years, the Maltese tourism today has shifted towards being more diverse; â€Å"less seasonal and less dependent on tour operator business†¦consequently m... ...atively untapped. These different characteristics needs separate objectives and policies. Conclusions Being aware that the tourism industry will continue to grow in the coming years, it is of particular importance that both the Maltese Island and also the United Kingdom continues to investigate this sector whilst trying to adapt effective policies. Investigating the targeted markets, the industry’s pitfalls, the contribution within the country’s economy whilst sustaining the environment should be the primary goals that every destination must to consider within the tourism policy. Works Cited www.ppcd.gov.mt/file.aspx?f=519 http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Tourism-policy-available-for-public-feedback-20120214 www.culture.gov.uk/.../Government2_Tourism_Policy_2011.pdf https://secure2.gov.mt/tsdu/file.aspx?f=7339