Final answer:
The explosion of global tourism is largely attributed to the rise of Chinese tourists, who have affected the tourism industry by exchanging large volumes of currency. Exchange rates such as the euro to dollar ratio also influence travel costs and tourist behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the principal factors contributing to the surge in global tourism has been the rise of Chinese tourists. China's increasing affluence has led to a significant number of Chinese citizens traveling abroad, which has had a substantial impact on the tourism industry worldwide. When Chinese tourists go to other countries, they need to exchange their yuan for the local currency, thereby influencing the foreign exchange market and contributing to the economic activity in the tourism sector.
Exchange rates also play a role in the cost-effectiveness of travel for tourists from various countries. For instance, if the euro to dollar exchange rate rises, it means that Europeans will find it less expensive to travel to the United States, and they are likely to spend more while they are there. Conversely, a weaker dollar would make it more expensive for U.S. tourists to travel abroad, potentially resulting in less international travel by Americans due to higher costs.