Local, regional and national governments play an important role in how tourism destinations are developed and managed. But where do politics come in? How do organisations like the United Nations fit into this picture? And how does policy making work at the international level? All these questions and more are covered in this essential new textbook, with examples from destinations all over the world.

This concise and accessible introduction to tourism planning and policy making explores key themes around the strategic planning process, sustainability, ethics and inclusion in tourism, and future policy directions for tourism. Each chapter includes several snapshots and one case study to demonstrate how theory applies in practice, and ends with self-test questions to check your understanding.

This text is essential reading for all college and university students studying tourism, hospitality, events, and leisure and recreation studies.

Lynn Minnaert is the Dean of the School of Hospitality at the Metropolitan State University of Denver.