IGCSE Travel and Tourism Practice Exam

What does specialist tourism refer to?

1. A tourism market focused on luxury hotels

2. A niche in tourism appealing to specific segments

3. A trend towards eco-friendly travel

4. A generalization of tourist attractions

The correct answer is: A niche in tourism appealing to specific segments

Specialist tourism refers specifically to a niche within the larger tourism sector that caters to distinct interests or specific segments of travelers. This form of tourism targets particular needs or preferences that differ from mainstream tourism. Examples include adventure tourism, cultural tourism, culinary tourism, or health tourism, each designed to appeal to groups with shared interests or lifestyles. This focused approach allows businesses to tailor their services and marketing efforts to attract travelers who seek unique experiences that align with their passions. By concentrating on specific segments, the tourism industry can offer specialized products and services that enhance those travelers' experiences, ultimately leading to greater satisfaction and engagement. The other options do not accurately characterize specialist tourism: a focus solely on luxury hotels represents a broader luxury segment rather than a niche; eco-friendly travel, while an important trend, is just one area of specialist tourism; and generalization of tourist attractions lacks the specificity that defines niche markets. Specialist tourism intricately combines targeted offerings with distinct traveler interests, making the second choice the most fitting description.