ABSTRACT
A number of countries, such as Spain, Greece, Italy and Austria, have economies which are highly dependent on the industry, most of their visitors coming from other European countries. Travellers from Europe are also an important element in the increasing invasion of Third World countries for purposes of recreation. Tourism is an interesting industry in that the contact between tourists and locals, whether as producers or as picturesque bystanders, is an important part of the experience. The relations between tourists and locals, due perhaps to cultural, linguistic or economic differences, often seem to lend themselves to interactions which are perceived as exploitative on one side or the other. Sport is a traditional topic for writers on leisure, and another major industry. French sport, however, has its own strengths and specialities. Germany provides us with another fascinating example of the politicisation of sport.
