Introduction: Special issue in hospitality

Abstract

In the era of globalization, the economic contribution of the tourism, hospitality and leisure industry to the world’s GDP is significant. Tourism represents one of the main sources of income for many countries; tourism creates jobs, enhances exports and contributes to the economic welfare of a host country. Although the contribution of tourism, hospitality and the leisure industry in the era of globalization has been broadly recognized, there are also numerous challenges that this industry faces.