Support Services: Behind the Scenes

Cleaning and Maintenance

Often invisible but essential:

• 150,000 workers in tourism-related cleaning
• Seasonal contracts predominate
• Working conditions often difficult
• Skills increasingly technical

Security Services

Tourism security evolved post-2015:

• Armed guards at major attractions
• Surveillance systems upgraded
• Crowd management expertise
• Balance with welcoming atmosphere

Translation and Interpretation

Multilingual services expand:

• Guide-interpreters: 15,000 nationally certified
• Audio guide technology
• Real-time translation apps impact
• Cultural mediation growing importance

Financial Services

Tourism-specific financial needs:

• Currency exchange: Still relevant despite euros
• Tax-free shopping: €2.5 billion annually
• Payment processing: Contactless adoption
• Travel insurance: Growing awareness