Synopsis Tourism in the rural areas is one of the new opportunities that are being created for those dwelling there. They have the resources, the manpower, the basic skill and expertise and a down to earth approach that is in sharp contrast with the five-star culture of tourism in the city areas. The rural residents have the scope and potential to present a very pleasant and exciting change from traditional tourism which tourists are finding jaded and therefore have begun exploring new vistas of adventure and experience. This book concentrates on detailing the advantages of rural tourism, its benefits, and how one can and should go about it. Real life success stories from different parts of the world have been incorporated to show how rural tourism has prospered in other areas and how it can be adapted for local conditions. To this end, the chapter-structure has been careful planned to include: growth of Tourism; Rural and Regional Tourism; Market Size of Tourism Industry; Tourism Impact on the Indian Economy; Growing Trend of Rural Tourism; Women in Tourism Benefits of Tourism; Tourism and the Country; and General guidelines for a Tourism Development Plan.