Once upon a time, tourism was primarily associated with leisure and visits to exotic places for recreation and possibly a visit to see family. In the last few years, a number of different classes of tourism have been mentioned that relate to altogether different reasons for tourism: If tourists are attracted repeatedly to a particular location, no matter for what reason, they represent a potential resource for a wide range of local businesses.

Some kinds of tourism

• Health tourism this involves activities that promote good health. Examples of health tourism include visiting exercise or meditation centres or resorts that provide health services or specialise in vegetarian food. Such visits are typically of a specified duration, such as 3,5, or 7 days.

This KMAfrica.com SIG looks at knowledge for the African tourism industry including Knowledge Tourism, know-how in customer service and experience management, advertising and branding and recommended links for African tourism. We also include stories based on archaeological, anthropological and historial evidence to highlight the deep cultural significance of certain parts of Africa.