Travel and Leisure and Tourism
Do you have a passion for working in travel, leisure or tourism? Fancy the leisure industry and becoming a fitness instructor in a leisure centre? Or the travel industry, whilst jetting off around the world as a holiday rep or aircraft cabin crew? Or maybe you're interested in a sporting career whilst studying for a qualification? There are some fantastic opportunities in the travel, leisure and tourism industry which is rapidly evolving as there are more demands from consumers.
The travel, leisure and tourism industry play a major role in the economic life of Britain, and as we prepare for the Olympics 2012, more job opportunities are available in this industry.
If you are interested in the travel industry then you will most commonly find that jobs as tour operators and retail travel agents are popular however this nature of work requires interaction with the transport, leisure and tourism sectors.
Tour operators create, arrange and operate tailor-made tours and travel packages which retail travel agents then advertise and sell to the public. Retail travel agents can also offer services such as foreign currency, visa and insurance advice. Large tour companies also have graduate training schemes, but competition can be strong.
The leisure industry is big business, which has largely been down to society's awareness of the need for a healthier lifestyle, and the perception of a need for a good work/life balance . The leisure industry consists of sport and recreation, health and fitness, betting and gambling. The leisure industry has plenty of jobs available whether you want to work at a gym, work at a theme park or even at a casino.
Graduate jobs in leisure can be in areas such as management and administration whilst graduates who have completed sports or leisure related degrees could find work in fitness centres and health clubs. Career paths are many and varied in the travel, leisure and tourism industry, so the opportunities are endless.
Working in travel, leisure and tourism sadly isn't one big holiday as it can involve shift, evening, weekend and bank holiday work. You may also be away from home for a long period of time but the work is varied and fun, and there are plenty of opportunities to travel and live abroad.
Working conditions in this industry vary depending on what path you decide to take. Some leisure jobs are based indoors in places such as offices, shops, gymnasiums, sports halls or cinemas, while others, in areas such as tourism and travel are largely based outdoors.
Some jobs which involve sport and fitness may call for large amounts of physical training and activity.
Jobs in these industries have very different entry requirements. Some demand specific qualifications while others require no formal qualifications. Almost all employers look for relevant experience gained during university or previous work placements. Many companies offer holiday work in the UK and abroad which can boost your cv.
These include sports camps, activity centres and holiday companies.
Much of the training is on the job, however depending on what route you take, some employer may seek qualifications in sports science, exercise and health studies, leisure studies, tourism management, recreation management or human movement studies.
To succeed in the travel, leisure and tourism industry you need to have the ability to communicate well with people, especially in the sport and leisure sector. A helpful attitude is also important in most of these jobs.
Organisational and teamwork skills are often required and sometimes good business skills especially if you take on managerial roles. With some roles graduates must be flexible as they may be required to travel for long hours.
Sporting ability may be needed for some roles, especially if you intend on coaching or using any sports in your job. You will also require to have a good level of fitness with plenty of energy and enthusiasm.
