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400
The ancient world
The origins of the modern holiday were in ancient Rome where there were holy days,religious feasts when people did not work.The ancient Romans invented many features of modern tourism,incuding seaside resorts,guide books and souvenirs. -
1400
The Middle Ages
The main reasons for travel were trade and religion. Hostels and inns developed along the pilgrimage routes. -
1500
The early modern period
Sightseeing became an essential part of tourism. Wealthy people also travelled for pleasure and for health reasons. -
Grand tour
The Grand Tour was a form of education for wealthy noblemen.It was a journey through Europe.During the Tour,young men learned about the art,culture,politics and history of the countries they visited. -
The 19th century
The Romantic movement created interest in nature and mountain scenery.The Grand Tour became fashionable for upper-class young women. -
Thomas Cook
Thomas Cook persuaded the Midland Counties Railway Company to run a special train from Leicester to Loughborough for a religious meeting at a reduced price of one shilling per person. This was the first organized tour. -
Thomas Cook
Thomas Cook began to operate tours as a business. -
The Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution led to massive changes in travel. The development of railways and steamships made inexpensive and rapid travel possible for the new middle and working classes. -
The Great Exhibition in London
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Thomas Cook
He organized the first tour to the United States. -
Thomas Cook
He invented the Circular Note,the original traveller's cheque,to make it easier to pay for services all over the world. -
The 19th century
New forms of luxury travel developed: trains with sleeping and restaurant cars. -
The 20th century
Sunbathing became fashionable. Increased wealth and leisure made travel for pleasure more common.The development of jat aircraft allowed more people to travel longer distances more quickly and more cheaply than ever before.Tourism became a major part of economy in several regions of the world.