Trade associations are set up to represent the interests of their members. Many draw up codes of conduct which lay down minimum standards under which their member companies must operate. Some key associations in Travel and Tourism include ABTA, AITO, the Tourism Alliance, the British Hospitality Association and UKInbound. AITO stands for Associations of Independent Tour Operators and was set up for smaller travel companies. These companies are in place so if anything goes wrong on your holiday, all your money is protected and safe.
Regulatory bodies exist to make sure that all the travel and tourism operators serve the travelling public safely, fairly and efficiently. They are found in different levels in travel and tourism: Global: Bodies such as ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) regulate international air transport services. European: The European commission introduces consumer protection measures for travellers such as the Distance Selling Regulations. National: The UK government is responsible for legislation concerning, for example airport security and health and safety at different places and tourist attractions. Local: Local authorities mainly concentrate on inspections of hotels, trading standards and restaurants to ensure that everything is correct for tourists. |