Learners are introduced to the travel and tourism sector in the first module, covering several major tourism categories and examining the reasons why people travel. Self-packaged holidays as a major new trend are discussed, along with the potential pros and cons of pre-packaged holidays.

The main components of saleable tourism products and travel services are then discussed, incorporating a detailed breakdown of the marketing mix and its relevance in travel and tourism. The importance of creating tourism products and services on the basis of extensive market research is also discussed.

Module Three provides fascinating insights into the various service providers, vendors and operators that collaborate to create a functional travel and tourism system. The functions and objectives of various contributors are discussed, including accommodation providers, travel agents, transportation companies and retailers.

Candidates then consider the advantages of making reservations through travel agents – particularly when planning international travel. Learners also study the main functions, objectives and services of travel agents, including organising transportation and accommodation for domestic and foreign trips.

Marketing and advertising in travel and tourism follows, in which the characteristics and components of an effective marketing strategy are studied. Candidates are familiarised with a variety of promotional activities and marketing tactics, including how to track and measure the performance of a marketing strategy.

The importance of quality communication in the tourism sector is assessed in Module Six. Candidates consider the benefits of improving their own communication skills, while learning how to accurately use and interpret body language, make a positive impression when meeting people for the first time and more.

Tips for becoming a better seller are presented and discussed in the seventh module, which introduces candidates to the concept of ‘smart’ selling. Techniques and strategies for closing more sales and boosting the value of every sale are discussed, along with confidence and communication skills as the cornerstones of successful selling.

Module Eight examines how customer care quality is the primary make-or-break performance factor in the travel and tourism sector. The importance of prioritising customer satisfaction and loyalty is discussed, alongside tips for improved quality management and how to accurately measure service quality.

HRM functions within the travel and tourism sector are examined in Module Nine, highlighting the importance of building and retaining high-performing teams. An introduction to recruitment and selection is also provided, along with compensation, benefits and other incentives as essential motivators.

The art of effective time management is then discussed in-depth, outlining the importance of strategic workload management and task prioritisation. The potential benefits of working to a predetermined schedule are also discussed, with tips and guidelines for avoiding procrastination and improving personal productivity.

Module 11 discusses the sensible way approach and manage stress, touching upon the potential consequences of excessive stress to a person’s physical and psychological health. Several highly effective relaxation techniques for improved stress management are presented and described in detail.

Transportation and logistics follow in Module 12, in which candidates study the positives and negatives of the main modes of transportation. Potential challenges in the provision of transportation within the sector are also discussed, alongside tips for choosing the most efficient mode of transportation from the options available.

Module 13 presents a series of common and rare crises that must be appropriately planned for as a travel and tourism business. Candidates learn how to develop an emergency management plan, provide confident leadership in a crisis situation and begin the process of restoring consumer confidence in the wake of a disaster.

The functions and objectives of public awareness programmes in travel and tourism are then discussed, including the personnel responsible for organising and overseeing them. Candidates also consider how building good press relations and local community involvement contribute to successful public awareness programmes.

The final module examines the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally conscious travel services, while discussing the potential consequences of overlooking the importance of sustainability. The critical role sustainability is expected to play in the future of the travel and tourism sector is also discussed.