Book excerpt: Elgar Advanced Introductions are stimulating and thoughtful introductions to major fields in the social sciences, business and law, expertly written by the world's leading scholars. Designed to be accessible yet rigorous, they offer concise and lucid surveys of the substantive and policy issues associated with discrete subject areas. This Advanced Introduction is an accessible and critical review of the economic foundations of tourism. Taking a regional approach based in macro- and resource economics, David Marcouiller points to how the competitive aspect of tourism can be transformative to regional activity. Offering insight into the decision-making process among both private and public stakeholders, this book makes clear the increasing necessity of using sound planning principles and practice to shape tourism consumption and production. Key Features: Explores integrative and sustainable tourism planning Outlines the features and construction of the tourism product and presents an environmental economics perspective on non-market goods and services Takes a macroeconomic approach to tourism development, highlighting the regional attributes of amenities and tourism demand This timely Advanced Introduction will be crucial reading for scholars interested in tourism economics and development, economic geography and urban and regional economics as well as those looking for a thought-provoking introduction to this evolving area of study.