Do you love Sri Lanka? Do you believe that it is truly a small miracle, offering visitors a big adventure? Do you like to develop and promote Sri Lanka tourism to the world introducing its varied cultures, historical artifacts, beautiful beaches, scenic mountain ranges and cuisines? Do you believe in service with a smile? If you answered yes to all of the above, then you could be an ideal candidate for a job in the tourism sector.

What is tourism?
The tourism industry can be divided into five career areas: accommodation, food and beverage services, recreation and entertainment, transportation and travel services. All of these areas involve providing services to people who visit your country.

What kind of careers are available in the tourism industry?
From operational positions to management and executive-level responsibilities, you'll find opportunities for solid training, knowledge and skill development along with unlimited career growth. The tourism industry also offers a unique environment for those who wish to start their own business.
Supervisory Positions - you hire, manage, motivate and schedule operational positions as well as provide key functional expertise.

Sample jobs include:

• Guest Services Supervisor
• Event Planner
• Restaurant Shift Supervisor
• Team Leader Accounting
• Maintenance Supervisor

Management Positions - involve budgeting, analysis, planning and change management in order to help employees and the organization to grow and prosper. There may also be interaction with other tourism sectors and community involvement.
Sample jobs include:

• Director of Sales and Marketing
• Head Chef
• Rooms Division Manager
• Adventure Company Owner
• Attractions Operations Manager

Executives - responsible for several departments or divisions and usually work at a regional, national or international level. They are responsible for strategic planning and have significant budget responsibility.
Sample jobs include:

• Hotel General Manager
• Regional Manager of Restaurant Chain
• Vice President of Human Resources
• Tour Company President
• Convention Centre Executive Director
• CEO of Destination Marketing Organization

There are also many opportunities for entrepreneurs in the tourism industry. Whether you're looking to open a resort, an eco-tourism outfit, an adventure operation or a bed and breakfast, the incredible growth of tourism means plenty of business opportunities for the entrepreneurial minded.

Educational requirements
Many occupations require skills that must be learned and practised. There are many routes to learning and, depending on the occupation you choose, you may achieve a management position through on-the-job training, a college or university diploma and/or through an apprenticeship programme. A recognized qualification from PATHE Academy which deliver the CTH ,UK programme, with a well industry experienced lecture panel.

And to further your education PATHE Academy has agreement for guaranteed direct admissions to 2nd and 3rd year at West London College with a further year of study leading to an honours degree - Hotel Management awarded by Bournemouth University.For further clarifications and details on the CTH programme please feel free to talk to our professional team of counsellors at Liberty Plaza, No:250 2/1, R.A De Mel Mawatha, Colombo-03.

Tourism is a diverse industry which offers long-term career opportunities for enthusiastic individuals who want to put their education and skills to work in various environments. It's one of the most exciting and diverse career paths out there.