ABSTRACT
Measurement of tourism activity is important for both public and private sectors.
Without reliable data it is impossible to demonstrate the economic importance of
the sector in terms of value added, employment, exports and imports. In many
countries, the amount of tourism activity is still underestimated due to a lack of
correct statistical information. An efficient policy also requires data on the supply
and demand structure and the development of the sector. Furthermore, a good
information system is the basis for a good planning process at the local and
regional levels. Strategic planning (both marketing and physical) begins with a situ-
ation analysis which is the priority markets, what is the necessary capacity of hospitals, parking, waste treatment installations, police force, etc.?
