In the context of the GCSE Geography curriculum, tourism is formally defined as the activities of people traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for leisure, business, or other purposes for a period of no more than one consecutive year. The study of tourism at this level focuses on the "Tourist Industry," which is a tertiary sector activity involving the provision of services such as transport, accommodation, and entertainment. GCSE students examine different types of tourism, including domestic (within one's own country) and international travel. The curriculum specifically analyzes the Butler Life Cycle Model, which tracks how a resort evolves from "exploration" to "stagnation" or "rejuvenation." It also emphasizes the impacts of tourism on the host country, categorizing them into economic (job creation vs. leakage), social (cultural exchange vs. loss of identity), and environmental (conservation vs. pollution). In 2026, newer GCSE modules also incorporate "Sustainable Tourism" as a core concept, teaching students how to manage destinations to meet current needs without damaging them for the future.