Owing to globalization and opening of our economy to the world, travel and tourism in India is getting an impetus, providing innumerable job opportunities directly and indirectly through associated services. As benefits of doing business with and in India are increasing, thousands of jobs are moving to the Indian shores from the West. This brings in its wake transit travelers, business travelers, business meets and holiday seekers. Therefore, a dazzling future is rest assured for all those who choose to make a career in Travel and Tourism.

Graduates may find job in Government tourism departments, Immigration and customs services, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, hotels etc and many associated service industries such as airline catering or laundry services, Guides, Interpreters, Tourism promotion and sales etc. As far as public sector is concerned, there are opportunities in the tourism department of the center and the states as Tourism Officers, information assistants and Tourist guides etc. Qualified tourism professionals can find employment in the private sector with travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, hotels, transport and cargo companies etc. After a few years of experience, they can also start their own business by handling all travel requirements of their clients

For courses at undergraduate level one must have passed 10+2 examination. A graduate in any discipline can pursue post-graduate degree in tourism and travel. For admissions, candidates need to clear the entrance test, group discussions and interviews which are conducted by the Directorate and Department of Tourism. Candidate proficient in any foreign language is generally preferred. There are graduate level, postgraduate level, diploma and certification courses available in travel and tourism industry. The different courses available in this field are-

• Bachelor of Tourism Administration
• Bachelor of Tourism Studies
• BTM (Hons)
• PG diploma course in Tourism Studies
• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Tourism & Travel)
• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Tourism & Leisure)
• PG program in Travel and Tourism
• Master of Tourism Administration
• Master of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Postgraduate diploma course in Tourism Management.

Pay scale differs depending on the tourist peak season, associated travel house, qualification or experience. Regional guides may charge Rs 500 per hour for a reputed travel house . They may earn between Rs 30,000-40,000 for an extended trip or more. As a fresher, one can earn from Rs 8000 to Rs 12000 per month and it is poised to increase with experience.

Good communication and presentation skills are indispensable in the industry, where customer service is of ultimate significance. An outgoing and friendly personality having ability to handle people, verbal fluency and aptitude for languages will be benignant to be successful in the field. One should also have an up-to-date knowledge of available facilities and services in the field. In the administrative or managerial level, organizing ability, an ability to make decisions, solve problems, work effectively within a team will be essential.