Tourism in the EU Economies Focused on the Period of Economic Crisis

Tourism interconnects for a long time essentially related aspects, such as tourism and the region of Europe, i.e. the area of the European Union. This topic should get considerable attention for more reasons. Firstly, tourism is described as a phenomenon of the world economy. In areas influenced by tourism, it contributes to the economic, social and cultural development, encourages economic growth and jobs creation. It is also a crucial source of income for many countries. Secondly, the sector of tourism has a considerable development potential for the future. It closely concerns lives of tens of thousands of people in both global and European scope. Finally, tourism represents getting to know new places, people, cultures and getting new experience. In this regard, EU accounts for an ideal place for development and implementation of tourism, also considering the existence of diverse locating, implementing and stimulating preconditions for development and allocation. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the issue of tourism based on so far uncommon perspective and to give an answer to the question of importance of tourism in the EU. The core of the study is analysis of selected indicators, with emphasis on those relating to the contribution of tourism to GDP and employment, focusing on developments in the recent period affected by the economic crisis. Attention is also paid to the indicators illustrating expenses of tourists, government expenses or capital investments.