Focusing on the political economy of the international tourism sector in the era of globalization and its impact in developing contexts, this book employs a case study analysis of South Africa to assess how international tourism as a global system of trade, production, exchange and governance plays out in developing countries. It also examines its benefits and disadvantages for these countries. Scarlett Cornelissen explores the nature and extent of global tourism production, consumption and regulation and how these bear upon developmental prospects, specifically in the South. She also highlights lessons for other developing countries about the limitations and possibilities for greater linkage to the global tourism system. The book is suitable for both scholars and practitioners interested in global tourism, international political economy, development, Africa and cultural studies.