Every ten seconds of every day, someone requests a flight reservation, makes a hotel reservation, arranges an automobile rental, plans a cruise trip, purchases a train ticket, or makes some other type of travel arrangement.        From the invention of the wheel to the flights of the space shuttle, the allure—and, inevitably, the necessity—of travel have inspired never-ending innovation in commerce, technology, and education. Whether for trade, exploration, conquest, or leisure, no experience has ever rivaled in impact the bold adventure of travel.        The travel and tourism industry is the largest single industry and the leading export product in the world. From airlines to airports, from ships to trains, from catering companies to fuel suppliers, the modern travel industry serves a vital role in the world economy. This complex industry generates $575 billion in global economic activity, produces 6 percent of all tax payments, and provides 195 million jobs worldwide, representing 7.6 percent of all workers.      One of every 13 workers is employed either directly or indirectly because of business, leisure, or educational travel. During the next twenty years, employment in the industry of travel is expected to grow at a faster rate than all other occupations.

The travel industry may be divided into two broad categories: business travel and leisure travel. A wide variety of employment opportunities exist with travel agencies, airlines, lodging establishments, car rentals firms, tour wholesalers, cruise lines, bus lines, and railway lines.        In every segment of the travel and hospitality industry, knowledge and skill in computer technology are a necessity. From car rental chains to cruise lines, from hotels to railways, sophisticated computer systems are used to handle reservations, analyze information, and manage finances. In the lodging industry, computers are used in virtually every aspect of hotel operations, from the maintenance of exterior grounds to the analysis of food and beverage costs. Reservation systems provide instant access to room availability and rates, while point of sale systems maintain and analyze sales at the front desk, dining room, and cocktail lounge. Computers are also used by hotels to operate telephone systems and regulate heating and air conditioning equipment.        A career in travel offers challenge, variety, and the opportunity to work with people. Few industries offer as much potential for personal advancement and independence, and, of course, travel.