Safety and security concerns in tourism industry: A conceptual review

Safety and security concerns in the tourism industry are critical aspects that need to be seriously considered to ensure that a tourist destination remains as a place of choice among tourists. This conceptual review of safety and security concerns in the tourism industry is premised on the importance of safeguarding tourists safety during their visit to a tourist destination. Among the threats facing tourists are natural disasters such as tsunami and earthquakes; crime and violence, such as rape, kidnapping, murder and incidences of fraud by tour and travel agencies; food poisoning; diseases and many others. The safety and security issues are also related to tourists’ other interests, including the ability to find directions in an alien environment, understanding the social customs and practices in the local system, and safety in consumer services and shopping. In short, peace and hospitality are treated as travel and tourism ‘best friends’ as war and insecurity are among their worst enemies .