ABSTRACT
This chapter compares the economic impacts of tourism in developed and developing countries. The impacts of tourism have been historically the most researched area of tourism. Economic impacts of tourism can be particularly marked in developing countries. The great majority of home-stays are run by local residents, rather than outsiders and hence almost all of the economic gain from the activity goes directly to the local population. Asia is an important destination for tourists from Europe, North America and Australasia, but is also becoming increasingly important as a source of tourists. These tourists, from Japan, Korea and Taiwan in particular, are visiting other parts of Asia and the Pacific Rim but are also making visits to Europe and North America. The Indonesian island of Bali provides a good example of both the gains and problems that can arise from tourism development in a destination located in a developing country.
