THE EFFECTS OF THE INTERNET ON TOURISM ACTIVITY

The Internet has motivated the development of tourism, facilitated the instantaneous access and the distribution of tourist information as well as the support and the reengineering of the booking of tourist organizations, allowing all users, without intermediate agents, to access tourism information and to purchase tourist products. As a result, an electronic market emerged and the majority of tourism suppliers developed interfaces to communicate directly and efficiently with their partners and customers. A new type of traveler emerged, more knowledgeable, experienced and looking for exceptional value for his/her trips. The interactivity developed between consumers, products and industry has encouraged changes in the tourism value chain, in the distribution channels and has motivated the emergence of new trends associated with this interactive medium.