Filipino Teen-Ager’s Perspective on the Use of Herbs for Health and Body Care

INTRODUCTION Background of the Study Herbs are essential ingredients today. Different kinds of products made of it are now sprouting. Examples are herbal soaps for whitening the skin, herbal tea for cleansing the body, herbal hair supplements for hair growth, etc. But it is primarily used for medical and health purposes. An herb, as stated by the Microsoft Encarta Dictionaries (2007), is â€Å"a low-growing aromatic plant used fresh or dried for seasoning, for its medicinal properties. â€Å" A common feature of Filipinos is their persuadable character. Nowadays, because of the herb thing being shown in TV commercials and informative shows, many are starting to notice herbs and their useful properties for health purposes. Due to this increasing interest of Filipinos on herbs, the researcher chose to study about it but limited the topic to Filipino adolescents’ (ages14-19) view on herbs. The researcher is a teen herself. She wants to know if people her age have a common view and response on the subject matter. This is the main reason she limited the respondents to just Filipino teens rather than the whole age range of Filipino citizens. Significance of the Study Studying the perspective of the young on herbs can benefit a lot of people. If proven that a larger part of the group would have a positive view on the use of herbs, meaning they are very open to the use of herbs, then there would be possibility that this study can convince: (a) foreign and local investors to invest in herb businesses in the Philippines; (b) the government to supply more herbal products for the poor and/or to support Filipino entrepreneurs who are into herb business; and (c) the medical researchers to study this topic on herbs further. This study is interesting because herbs are in vogue today. Filipinos are now into herbal use and medication. Many herbal commodities are coming out in the market. This study, likewise, can have a hand in the prevailing knowledge of Modern Filipino lifestyles and Filipino Culture. It can also contribute to the studies of the behaviors of Filipinos on herbal products. It can negate or verify the hearsays that most Filipinos are using herbal commodities in their every day life. Statement of the Problem Teens are willing to use herbs, a rising trend in the world, for their health and body care for reasons that their environment they have grown up influenced them and that the effects of their daily experiences also affects their behavior. Objectives of the Study This study intends to: †¢ Enable readers to know about the Filipino Teen-agers’ attitude on the use of herbs for daily living. †¢ Have knowledge of the factors that lead Filipino Teen-agers to be convinced or discouraged to use herbs. †¢ Enhance people’s awareness on the issue of herbal use. Help in foreseeing the undesirable consequences of the use of herbs. †¢ Encourage researchers to explore further the topic and research on the other applications of herbs. †¢ Help in the economic environment of the Philippines. Review of Related Literature â€Å"And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is the fr uit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat†¦and to†¦everything†¦wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so,† stated in Genesis 1: 29, 30. There are a number of texts in the Bible that can be references to the people’s use of herbs in that time. The above text is one of them. Herminia de Guzman-Ladion interpreted this text from the Bible. She said in her book Healing Wonder of Herbs that herbs were used in God’s dietary plan for man and His creatures (de Guzman-Ladion, 1985). This is an example of how people of the positive ways in using herbs. There can be a conclusion that man, in the time when the Bible had been written, already believed in the good effect of the use of herbs for their daily living. As a relation to this, Winston J. Craig (1996) said in his article Herbs in the March-April 1996 issue of Health & Home Magazine that a number of herbal products (plants) have been found to be beneficial for people’s health (Craig, 1996). Yes, herbal plants can be very useful for a person’s health but cautions must be taken. In the article Herbal Supplements in the same issue of the same magazine, The Mayo Clinic (1996) asserted that lack of scientific basis doesn’t mean all herbs are hazardous for anyone, but taking them is uncertain (The Mayo Clinic, 1996). As a result of the herb’s popularity caused by declarations or overstated bits of scientific evidence, people are spending millions a year for herbal remedies. These herbs are selling like hotcakes and promise to enhance one’s well-being naturally (The Mayo Clinic, 1996). An example of the popularity of herbs is the survey assessed by the World Health Organization. The result of the said survey is it revealed 65% – 80% of the world’s population uses traditional medicine as their principal method of health care (Drew, 1997). (Herbal use is a part of the traditional medicine. This survey like the surveys of the SWS has shown that not only Filipinos use herbs but also a lot in the world. Herbs are very useful, especially for helping cure diseases. Dr. Gerard Penecilla, a Filipino pharmaceutical scientist, found out that that 2 herbal plants, banaba and tsaang-gubat, found out that these plants contain ingredients that can fight the growth and multiplication o f cancer cells. (Herbs, 2003) Many Filipinos like him want to expand and explore the applications of herbs in the scientific knowledge. Former acting health secretary Jaime Galvez Tan said, â€Å"if only we could establish more herbal processing plants (in the Philippines), importing expensive drugs and medicines will become a thing in the past. † (Filipinos, 1996) If only what Mr. Tan’s hope would happen, there would be more convenient medicines for the less fortunate. Medicines would be affordable that people would not experience the anxiousness they feel whenever there is someone stricken by viral diseases in their families. This could happen in the near future but there are still no implications that studies are already closer today than yesterday. Methodology The researcher’s topic is about the behavior of Filipino teens on the use of herbs or health and body care. The most appropriate way to address this matter is by the method of a survey. Though it is very expensive and time-consuming, a survey would tell the concrete ideas of the participants regarding the topic. Besides from surveys, the researcher will research about existing data from the different libraries near her home. This would help her in proving or negating her interview results. This would also provide a better understanding of the subject matter. Participants About 20 Filipino teen-age students (ages 14-19), living or studying in Pampanga preferably in the cities of San Fernando and Angeles, will be interviewed. This age range is very suitable for the study because the younger generation is very prone to technological and scientific changes. They have the capacity to adapt in such changes, yet they can be instruments to promote or obliterate these alterations. These made them a very suitable group in studying the above concern. They should be knowledgeable of the subject matter and can give critical answers to questions raised to them. Procedure The researcher will conduct surveys with the participants. Before she will start the discussion, the researcher will request for the participant’s permission to answer the questions in her study and will guarantee the participant that his or her private identity will not be specified in the report. The researcher will explain beforehand the purpose and goals of her study. Then, she will hand to the participant the survey questionnaire and the respondent will answer them with his or her own opinion and idea about the matter as the researcher will explain some details in the questionnaire that the participant is confused of. The survey will take place in the school or home of the participant and will last not more than 10-20 minutes. After the dialogues, the researcher will give her utmost gratitude to the participant for lending his or her time and sharing his or her views. All the data will be summed up and run through. The researcher will give a particular consideration to the outlook of the participants on herbal use. Related studies and literatures collected will be used in analyzing the data. They will be added to support or refute the present study. Common scenarios will be pointed out and elaborated. Outline Thesis Statement: Teens are willing to use herbs, a rising trend in the world, for their health and body care for reasons that their environment they have grown up influenced them and that the effects of their daily experiences also affects their behavior. I. There is a rising trend of the use of herbal products and medicine in the world. A. The ancient world was using herbs for centuries. 1. Man and plant are complementing one another. 2. Chinese herbology is the most popular use of herbs in the world. . The Greek physicians collected and prescribed medicinal plants and their extracts for various illnesses. 4. Writings of Egyptians containing plants for the cure of diseases were found. B. The demand and trend for herbal products and medicines were reflected on certain economic issues of different countries. 1. Germany imports medicinal plants for its people’s use. 2. The herbal market is growing in the United States . 3. Asia exports a lot of herbal plants such as Indonesia’s Jamu and Korea’s Ginseng. 4. Canada consumes a lot herbal medicines for their health. 5. Japan will work to regulate supplements as foods instead of drugs. C. Studies and surveys were conducted to prove the popularity and effectiveness of herbal products, medicines and supplements. 1. The world Health Organization estimated 80% of people in the world use herbal medicines. 2. Unity Maketing, Business Communication Company and National Marketing Institute researched separately the herbal market. 3. The dietary supplements sales on the internet reached $40 million in 1998. 4. Supplement companies have united to increase research and education on supplements. 5. The PCCARD revives herbal use for their services. 6. An SWS survey showed that the Filipinos are using herbal medicines to cure illnesses. II. The environment where the teens are growing up is the primary factor for their positive attitude in using herbs. A. The familys lifestyle takes part in their behaviors. 1. Beliefs and practices regarding folk medicine were handed down from ancestors. 2. Safe and natural medications are now of primary concern. B. Friends are the one of the best source of information. C. Media is also a factor. 1. Most teenagers engage with media everyday. . Television ads on herbal products are aired. 3. Teens are reading a lot of publications and browsing the web in this stage of their growth. 4. Artists have been endorsing herbal teas and organic products. III. Another factor that affects their behavior is effects of their daily experiences. A. The increasing pollution in the teens’ society becomes disturbing. B. The teens’ lack of exercise adds to their need for an instant remedy to maintain good status of their health. C. Stress is very usual to students. I. FINDINGS OF THE STUDY The World’s View Before, man used plants in two ways. First, plants were used in religious rituals and ceremonies. They were thought to be divinatory agents. Through offering plants, people believed that gods can hear and interact with them. They also believed that this is a way to please the gods. The second way is the medical use of plants. There are illnesses that are believed to be treatable by plants. These diseases included mental illnesses, diarrhea, worm infection, lung diseases, and diabetes. Plants were known to be the medical folklore of people. They were used for centuries (Lisca, 2000). In their introduction in Medical botany: plants affecting man’s health, Walter and Memory Lewis (1977) stated that â€Å"Man’s survival has been dependent on his innate curiosity, his desire to examine by trial and error all aspects of his environment, and to conclude, for example, which materials are remedial, which ones are harmful and which give him the greatest nourishment† (Lewis, 1977). China is very popular with its great contribution to science. In the Chinese History, the legendary Empereor Shen Nung put together the Pen T’sao where he rated 365 herbs as superior, mediocre or inferior (Modell, 1980). At present, herbology and acupuncture blended with cosmopolitan medicine form the new Chinese medicine which Chinese are proud of because of its therapies and concepts that treat men as a whole entity (Lewis, 1977). In the Ancient Greece, medicinal plants were also used to cure diseases. Some great physicians like Hippocrates, gathered and prescribed drugs that contain herbs and medicinal plants (Modell, 1980). In Ancient Egypt, the Papyrus Ebers, an ancient text (1500 B. C. ) containing 700 herbal remedies, showed how skilled the Egyptians were in use of herbal medicines (Herbs, 2005). Not only in the ancient world are herbs used, but also in the present world. Plants do not only benefit our health but they also benefit the economical growth of a country. People are now having interest on using herbal products. This could have been the main reason for the growing interest on the herbal market. Countries such as Germany, France, Sweden, and Australia are now on the course of licensing herbal remedies. The European Commission had made a draft directive in licensing herbal preparations where in these herbal products will be given licenses if they passed the procedures in assessing their quality and safety (De Smet, 2002). Germany is the home of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. But it is also the biggest importer and consumer of medicinal plants. An example of the Germans extensive use of herbal products is the high priced herbal laxatives. These laxatives cost 10 times more than pharmaceutical chemical laxatives (Escobar, Economic). In the United States, 60 million Americans used herbs in 1996, accounting $3. 24billion in sales. The US herbal market experienced unprecedented growth as herbal medicine sales increased by 59% in 1997 (Miller, 1998). Dr. Herbert Loveless expected the US herbal market to reach $6 to $8 billion in 1998 with an annual growth rate of 25% (US, 1999). Now, the annual sale of drugs from plants is $10 billion. Investigations on new uses of plant-derived drugs are also growing. There are more than 200 organizations are experimenting and researching on plants today (Lisca, 2000). Asia has been the largest exporter of herbal products and supplements. According to Vicenta M. Escobar, Pharm. D. , Indonesia uses â€Å"Jamu† and Korea uses â€Å"Ginseng†. Both also created export markets for their herbal products (Escobar, Economic). Governments also help in the use of herbal medicines and products. The Canadian government allocated $10 million to establish a natural product organization in response to the growing public demand for herbs and dietary supplements in Canada (Canada, 1999). Also, over 1700 retail outlets, with an estimation of $680 million annual retail sales, are classified as health food stores or supplements/ nutrition stores there (Schleich, Herbal). In Japan, the government will work for a reclassification of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other dietary supplements as food instead of drugs (Japan, 1999). Aside from the government, various groups and companies do research for the development of the knowledge and use of herbs. As said by the World Health Organization, 80% of people worldwide are depending on herbal medicines for their healthcare because of the increasing cost of prescription medicines and the interest to go back to the natural remedies (Hart, 2002). The unity Marketing reported that doctors were the consumer’s best source of credible information on vitamins and herbs, followed by publications, product labels, and friends. According to the Business Communications Company, there is an expected increase in the amount of botanical raw materials at a rate of 9. 7% annually through 2004. National Marketing Institute noted that in the next five years, the biggest sellers would be products that assist the immune system, followed by stress reducers and cognitive enhancers (Market, 2000). As stated by the Nutrition Business Journal, a $40 million supplement sales was reached on the internet in 1998 (Online, 1999). The Corporate Alliance for Integrative Medicine, composed of 10 major supplement companies, will focus on research programs at major American Universities. It also aims to develop programs for medical professionals and consumers (Industry, 1998). In the Philippines, the PCCARD, or the Philippine Council for Agriculture Resource Research and Development, is reviving the use of herbs and medicinal plants for health care services. They encourage people by imposing simple instructions on how to grow these plants and listing the ailments that can be cured by these medical plants and herbs (Filipinos, 2008). There had been a study conducted by the Social Weather Station (SWS) in 1994. It disclosed that 78% of Filipinos were making use of herbal medicines to cure different kinds of common ailments (Filipinos, 1996). A previous survey presented that 66 of Filipinos are availing themselves of local herbs or medicinal plants when suffering from various illness or discomfort (Filipinos, 1996). These surveys show that, even before, there is an existing knowledge of the Filipino behavior on the subject of herbs. The Filipino Teenagers’ view The word ‘herbs’ is a common word heard from the conversation of most adults. They know a lot about it and its great contribution to the society. But does the next generation know about it? The researcher wants to know the answer to this question. In her survey, she asked if the respondents know anything about herbs and its so-called ‘natural healing powers’. The teenagers’ response was not surprising. 90% (18 out of 20) confirmed that they knew about it. Some of the respondents’ views were: â€Å"They are plants. Some of them have soft stems and can be used in cooking, medicine and cosmetics. I learned many herbal medicines in our botany class. And well, (maybe because) I’m taking up Pharmacy. † -Female, 17 â€Å"Herbs are medicinal plants. They contain minerals that are proven to be effective by science. † – Female, 17 The Filipino family is the family wherein each member is very much influenced by the culture, beliefs and practices of the family. Their lifestyle would have a great part in each member’s personality and views. In the survey 100% of the respondents affirmed that their families are knowledgeable on herbs. 85% (17 out of 20) of the respondents assumed their families believe in the ‘natural healing powers’ of herbs, 10 %( 2 out of 20) answered their families wouldn’t believe, and 5% (1 out of 20) didn’t respond to the question. 0% (14 out of 20) of the respondents stated that their families use herbs, 25% (5 out of 20) stated that their families are not using herbs, and 5% (1 out of 20) didn’t respond to the question. Philippine culture is rich with beliefs and practices in folk medicine. A lot of them are still passed on from generation to generation. O ne of them is the belief of the herbolario’s (albularyo) capacity to cure different illnesses. From the encyclopedia of Philippine Folk Beliefs and Customs of Fr. Francisco Demetrio, S. J. , a herbolario is called as such because he uses herbs or some kind of grass in curing the sick (Demetrio, 1991). But this belief was not very much seen on the survey. Only 40% (8 out of 20) stated that their family consulted a herbolario at least once, 35% (7 out of 20) said no, and 25% (5 out of 20) were uncertain. Many families use herbs for it is natural and safe. According to the survey, 65% (13 out of 20) said that their families use herbs due to its natural properties and 55% (11 out of 20) said their families use herbs due to its safer properties than synthetic drugs. Aside from the families, the next factor that builds the personality of a teenager is his/ her friends. They are with him or her most of the time in this stage of his or her life. Thus, they converse a lot of different topics which makes the ‘friends’ factor one of the primary sources of information. There had been a 50-50 result on the survey regarding the teens’ conversations with their friends about herbs. 50% of the respondents said that they had conversed about herbs with their friends and the other 50% said they did not. 60% (12 out of 20) of them presumed that their friends believe in herbs’ ‘natural healing powers’, 10% (2 out of 20) didn’t think so, and the others did not respond to the question. Teenagers engage with media, such as television, internet, radio, magazines and newspapers, everyday. It is also a source of information where they can be knowledgeable of things easily. 90% (18 out of 20) of the respondents said that they know television advertisements of some herbal products, supplements, and medicines. 80% (16 out of 20) of them stated that they have read articles talking about herbs/ herbal products in some publications and over the net. 85% (17 out of 20) of them said that they know some local and foreign artists who endorse herbal products. But only 10% (2 out of 20) of participants believed these artists use the products they endorse and 45% (9 out of 20) supposed these artists do not use the products they endorse. Pollution is brought about by the advancing technology today. Smokes from cars and other pollutants are everywhere. With this, most teenagers are alarmed for its harmful effects to their health and to the society. 65% (13 out of 20) of the respondents stated that they are currently alarmed of the danger of their health brought about by pollution. 55% (11 out of 20) of respondents said that herbs can help them be protected against pollution. A problem that also bothers the teenagers is their lack of exercise. 85% (17 out of 20) of them said that they don’t exercise regularly. 0% (8 out of 20) of them think that taking herbal remedies can help in maintaining a good status of their health, 25% (5 out of 20) of them said they don’t think so, and 35% (7 out of 20) of them are neutral about it. The respondents are also students. Most of them are stressed out and tired of school works and activities. But only 30% (6 out of 20) of them think that herbs can help them relieve str ess and tiredness, 15% (3 out of 20) don’t think so, and 55% (11 out of 20), the majority, are neutral about it. 5% (13 out of 20) of the respondents said that they prefer to use herbals due to their natural and safer properties than taking synthetic drugs. 75% (15 out of 20) stated that they are not taking herbs at present and 65% (13 out of 20) of the respondents said they are planning to use it in the future. II. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION Teenage life is the stage of a person’s learning of the society and growth of personality through culture and environment. It is affected by different factors in which the attitudes and behaviors of the teenagers are being molded upon. At present, the world is already in the stage wherein technology is advancing fast and the teenagers have the capacity to adapt in such changes, yet they can be instruments in promoting or obliterating these alterations. But behind these technological and scientific changes, the use of herbs has still been a major notion. Practical living is the system of living the society mostly needs now due to such changes that greatly affect the people’s daily living. And one practical way is to use herbal remedies for its safer properties but cheaper price than synthetic drugs. The world, since the ancient times, uses herbs as medicinal cures for different diseases. Writings in the Ancients China, Greece, and Egypt of the use of herbs as remedies have been found. Presently, many countries, such as Germany and the United States of America, are extensively using herbal products and remedies. They have been researching and finding ways on how to prove and further enhance the healing ingredients of herbs. In the Philippines, programs and seminars were held by the government in encouraging Filipino families to grow medicinal plants and herbs and, therefore, use them for health and care purposes. Now, considering that Filipinos have a persuadable character and the economic crisis happening in the Philippines, it is likely possible that they would use medicinal plants and herbs in attending to their healthcare services. And because the Filipino family is the family wherein each member is very much influenced by the culture, beliefs and practices of the family, it is possible that the Filipino teenagers’ attitudes towards the use of herbs are mostly affected by their families. The survey has shown that majority of the respondents’ families are knowledgeable and using herbs. They also believe in the ‘natural healing powers’ of herbs. Aside from their families, the respondents’ friends and daily engagement with media affected their attitudes towards using herbs. It has been shown in the survey that majority of the respondents assumed that their friends are believing in the ‘natural healing powers’ of herbs and affirmed that they have watched commercial advertisements and read articles talking about the positive results in using herbs for healthcare. Other minor factors affecting the teenagers’ behavior in using herbs are pollution, stress and their lack of exercise. As revealed in the survey, majority of the respondents affirmed that using herbs can help them be protected from the harmful effects of pollution, be relieved from stress and tiredness, and maintain a good status of their health. Clearly, Filipino teenagers accepted the concept of herb in their daily living due to the influences and knowledge from their families, their friends, their experiences, and the media. Most of them are already conscious of their health that they are also considering the use of herbs for their health and body care. But still, some are not yet greatly bothered by it or concerned on the possible benefits or consequences they can get from using it. But because of what they hear and learn about it, they are, somewhat, expressing their interest on the subject matter. The research has shown how some of the Filipino teenagers address the issue of herbs for health and body care. But due to the limited time given and a small sample size used for the said research, the researchers does not recommend her research to be used in basing the whole standing of the Filipino Teenagers on the issue. It is not suitable because, aside from being small to be relied on, the sample used in the survey consists of students, either living or studying in the cities of Angeles and San Fernando in Pampanga. It would have been better if a larger sample size consisting of both literate and illiterate teenagers from different parts of the Philippines should be used. But time and money has been very limited so the researcher opted to use the present sample. The researcher also recommends that if another research will be based from the said research, a wider range of factors should be taken into notice. Aside from the factors used, other factors affecting Filipino teenagers’ attitudes and behaviors should be studied and pointed out. A wider range of factors would significantly help in showing the nature of general stand of the Filipino teenagers regarding the issue. Survey and library research are the two methods used in accomplishing the present research. These two methods are the most appropriate methods to be used because of the limited time given. But if time will not be a great consideration, the researcher recommends that the method of interviewing should be used instead of conducting a survey. The interview method would really reveal, in details, how Filipino teenagers address the issue of using herbs for health care purposes. It would greatly help in identifying the stand of the Filipino teenagers’ on the matter. But using this method would be very time-consuming and money-spending. Man and plant really cannot live without the other. They coexist in this world to benefit one another. References: Canada forms new federal natural products organization. (June 1999). Natural foods merchandiser. Retrieved January 27, 2008 from the World Wide Website: http://herbs. rg/current/canorg. html Craig, J. (1996 March-April). Herbs. Health & home: The national journal of better living, 2, 10-11. Demetrio, F. (1991). Herbolario of ancient Philppines. Encyclopedia of Philippine folk beliefs and customs (Vol. 2). Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines: Xavier University. De Smet, P. (19 December 2002). Herbal remedies. The New England journal of medicine. Retrieved February 2, 2008 from the World Wide Website: https://content. nejm. org/cgi/content/extract/347/25/2046 De Guzman-Ladion, H. (1985). Healing wonder of herbs. Manila, Philippines: Philippine Publishing House. Drew, Anna & Stephen Myers. (18 February 1997). Safety issues in herbal medicine: Implications for the health professions. The medical journal of Australia. Retrieved Dec. 15, 2007 from the world wide website: mja. com. Escobar, V. M. (n. d. ). Economic issues in medicinal plants. Retrieved from DOST regional office library (region 3). Filipinos are using herbal medicine. (2001-2008). Living in the Philippines Inc. Retrieved January 27, 2008 from the World Wide Website: https://www. livinginthephiluippines. om/herbalmedicine/filipino_uses_herbal_medicine. html Filipinos go herbal. (1996 May-June). Health & home: The national journal of better living, 3, 2. Hart, J. & Shumake, L. (1 December 2002). Herbal medicine. Retrieved January 27, 2008 from the World Wide Website: http://www. umm. edu/altmed/articles/herbal-medicine-000351. htm â€Å"Herb. † Microsoft Encarta. 2007. Herbs to cure cancer? (2003 May-June). Health & home: The national journal of better living, 3, 2. Herbs of Egypt. (2005). Retrieved January 27, 2008 from the World Wide Website: http://www. erbsofegypt. com/ Industry alliance formed to increase research and education on supplements. (8 October 1998). Retrieved Dec. 15, 2007 from the world wide website: http://www. herbs. org/current/indallies. html Jocano, F. L. (1973). Major specialists. Folk medicine in a Philippine municipality. Diliman,QC: Punlad Research House, Inc. Japan moves to regulate supplements as foods. (17 May 1999). The Tan sheet. Retrieved January 27, 2008 from the World Wide Website: http://herbs. org/current/japansup. html Lewis, W. & M. P. F. 1977). Medical botany: Plants affecting man’s health. Missouri: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Lisca, K. (2000). Drugs and the human body (with implications for society). Diliman,QC: Punlad Research House, Inc. Market research and predictions summarized. (July / August2000). Nutritional outlook. Retrieved Dec. 15, 2007 from the wo rld wide website: http://www. herbs. org/current/mktresearchsumm. htm The Mayo Clinic. (1996 March-April). Herbal supplements. Health & Home: The national journal of better living, 2, 10-11. Miller, Lucinda. (10 June 1998). Selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug-herb interactions. Retrieved Dec. 15, 2007 from the world wide website: archinte. ama-assn. org Modell, W. et. al. (1980). Life science library: Drugs. Hong Kong: Time Life Books. Online sales of dietary supplements reach $40 million. (May 1999). Natural business. Retrieved Dec. 15, 2007 from the world wide website: http://www. herbs. org/current/onlinesup. html Schleich, David John (n. d. ). Herbal medicine a continuing trend. Retrieved from DOST regional office library (region 3). US herbal market nearing

Stanford Academic Calendar Essay Example

Stanford Academic Calendar Essay Example Stanford Academic Calendar Paper Stanford Academic Calendar Paper Essay Topic: Academic AUTUMN QUARTER 2017-18 August 1 (Tue) Axess opens for course enrollment. Stanford Bulletin publishes academic year 2017-18 degree requirements August 28 (Mon) M.D. first-year students, first day of instruction. August 31 (Thu) M.D. second-year students, first day of instruction. September 5 (Tue) Law School instruction begins for 1st-year J.D. students. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). September 15 (Fri) Autumn Quarter Cardinal Care Waiver Deadline; see the Cardinal Care web site. September 15 (Fri) M.B.A. 1st-year instructions begins. September 15 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) At-status enrollment deadline in order to receive stipend or financial aid refund within the first week of term. September 19 (Tue) New undergraduates arrive. Convocation. Undergraduate housing opens for new students; see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. September 21 (Thu) Undergraduate housing opens for returning students; see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. September 25 (Mon) First day of quarter; instruction begins. September 25 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Preliminary Study List deadline. Students must be at status; i.e., students must have a study list with sufficient units to meet requirements for their status, whether full-time, 8-9-10 units (graduate students only), or approved Undergraduate Special Registration Status or Graduate Special Registration Status. The late study list fee is $200. September 25 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Deadline to submit Leave of Absence for full refund (see undergraduate leaves of absence and graduate leaves of absence). See Tuition and Refund Schedule for a full refund schedule. September 25 (Mon) Law School instruction begins for 2nd/3rd-year J.D. and advanced degree students. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). September 28 (Thu) Conferral of degrees, Summer Quarter 2016-17. September 29 (Fri) GSB course add/drop deadline. October 13 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Final Study List deadline, except GSB. Last day to add or drop a class; last day to adjust units on a variable-unit course. Last day for tuition reassessment for dropped courses or units. Students may withdraw from a course until the Course Withdrawal deadline and a W notation will appear on the transcript. November 6 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Term withdrawal deadline; last day to submit Leave of Absence to withdraw from the University with a partial refund. November 17 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Change of grading basis deadline, except GSB. November 17 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Course withdrawal deadline, except GSB, Law, and M.D. November 17 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Application deadline for Autumn Quarter degree conferral. November 20-24 (Mon-Fri) Thanksgiving Recess (no classes). December 1 (Fri) Last day of Law classes. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). December 2-7 (Sat-Thu) Law School Reading Period. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). December 4-10 (Mon-Sun) End-Quarter Period. December 8 (Fri) Last day of classes (unless class meets on Sat.), except Law. December 8 (Fri) Last opportunity to arrange Incomplete in a course, at last class. December 8 (Fri, noon) University thesis, D.M.A. final project, or Ph.D. dissertation, last day to submit. December 8 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Late application deadline for Autumn Quarter degree conferral ($50 fee). December 8-15 (Fri-Fri) Law School examinations. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). December 11-15 (Mon-Fri) End-Quarter examinations. December 15 (Fri) Winter Quarter Cardinal Care Waiver Deadline; see the Cardinal Care web site. December 16 (Sat, noon) Undergraduate housing closes for Winter Break; see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. December 19 (Tue, 11:59 p.m.) Grades due. January 11 (Thu) Conferral of degrees, Autumn Quarter. WINTER QUARTER 2017-18 October 29 (Sun) Axess opens for course enrollment. December 29 (Fri) At-status enrollment deadline in order to receive stipend or financial aid refund within the first week of term. January 6 (Sat, 8:00 a.m.) Undergraduate housing opens for Winter Quarter; see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. January 8 (Mon) First day of quarter; instruction begins for all students. January 8 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Preliminary Study List deadline.Students must be at status; i.e., students must have a study list with sufficient units to meet requirements for their status, whether full-time, 8-9-10 units (graduate students only), or approved Undergraduate Special Registration Status or Graduate Special Registration Status. The late study list fee is $200. January 8 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Deadline to submit Leave of Absence for full refund (see undergraduate leaves of absence and graduate leaves of absence). See Tuition and Refund Schedule for a full refund schedule. January 12 (Fri) GSB course add/drop deadline. January 15 (Mon) Martin Luther King, Jr., Day (holiday, no classes). January 26 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.)Â  Final Study List deadline, except GSB. Final day to add or drop a class; last day to adjust units on a variable-unit course. Last day for tuition reassessment for dropped courses or units. Students may withdraw from a course until the Course Withdrawal deadline and a W notation will appear on the transcript. February 19 (Mon) Presidents Day (holiday, no classes; Law does hold classes). February 21 (Wed, 5:00 p.m.) Term withdrawal deadline; last day to submit Leave of Absence to withdraw from the University with a partial refund. March 2 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Change of grading basis deadline, except GSB. March 2 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Course withdrawal deadline, except GSB, Law, and M.D. March 2 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Application deadline for Winter Quarter degree conferral. March 12 (Mon) Last day of Law classes. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). March 12-18 (Mon-Sun) End-Quarter Period. March 13-15 (Tue-Thu) Law School Reading Period. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). March 16 (Fri) Last day of classes (unless class meets on Sat.) March 16 (Fri) Last opportunity to arrange Incomplete in a course, at last class. March 16 (Fri, noon) University thesis, D.M.A. final project, Ph.D. dissertation, last day to submit. March 16 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Late application deadline for Winter Quarter degree conferral ($50 fee). March 16-23 (Fri-Fri) Law School examinations. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). March 19-23 (Mon-Fri) End-Quarter examinations. March 24 (Sat) Undergraduate housing move-out (if departing at end of Winter Quarter); see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. March 27 (Tue, 11:59 p.m.) Grades due. April 5 (Thu) Conferral of degrees, Winter Quarter. SPRING QUARTER 2017-18 February 11 (Sun) Axess opens for course enrollment. March 23 (Fri) At-status enrollment deadline in order to receive stipend or financial aid refund within the first week of term. March 31 (Sat) Undergraduate housing move-in date for Spring Quarter; see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. April 2 (Mon) First day of quarter; instruction begins for all students. April 2 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Preliminary Study List deadline.Students must be at status; i.e., students must have a study list with sufficient units to meet requirements for their status, whether full-time, 8-9-10 units (graduate students only), or approved Undergraduate Special Registration Status or Graduate Special Registration Status. The late study list fee is $200. April 2 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Deadline to submit Leave of Absence for full refund (see undergraduate leaves of absence and graduate leaves of absence). See See Tuition and Refund Schedule for a full refund schedule. April 5 (Thurs) GSB classes begin. April 10 (Tues) GSB course add/drop deadline. April 13 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Application deadline for Spring Quarter degree conferral. April 15 (Sun) Spring Quarter Cardinal Care Waiver Deadline; see the Cardinal Care web site. April 20 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Final Study List deadline, except GSB. Last day to add or drop a class; last day to adjust units on a variable-unit course. Last day for tuition reassessment for dropped courses or units. Students may withdraw from a course until the Course Withdrawal deadline and a W notation will appear on the transcript. May 14 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Term withdrawal deadline; last day to submit Leave of Absence to withdraw from the University with a partial refund. May 25 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Change of grading basis deadline, except GSB. May 25 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Course withdrawal deadline, except GSB, Law, and M.D. May 28 (Mon) Memorial Day (holiday, no classes). June 1-7 (Fri-Thu) End-Quarter Period. June 1 (Fri) Last day of Law classes. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). June 2-3 (Sat-Sun). Law School reading Period. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). June 4-8 (Mon-Fri) Law School examinations. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). June 6 (Wed) Last day of classes. June 6 (Wed) Last opportunity to arrange Incomplete in a course, at last class. June 6 (Wed, noon) University thesis, D.M.A. final project, or Ph.D. dissertation, last day to submit. June 6 (Wed, 5:00 p.m.) Late application deadline for Spring Quarter degree conferral ($50 fee). June 7 (Thu) Day before finals, no classes. June 8-13 (Fri-Wed) End-Quarter examinations. June 13 (Wed, noon) Grades for GSB graduating students due. June 14 (Thu, noon) Grades for graduating students due. June 15 (Fri) Undergraduate housing move-out date (for all students not involved in Commencement); see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. June 16 (Sat) Senior Class Day. June 16 (Sat) Baccalaureate Saturday. June 16 (Sat) Law School Diploma Ceremony. See the full Law School academic calendar (pdf). June 16 (Sat) GSB Diploma Ceremony. June 16 (Sat) Medical School Commencement Ceremony. June 17 (Sun) Commencement. Conferral of degrees, Spring Quarter. June 18 (Mon) Undergraduate Housing move-out date (for graduates and others involved in Commencement with permission); see Residential Dining Enterprises Calendar. June 19 (Tue, 11:59 p.m.) Grades for non-graduating students due. SUMMER QUARTER 2017-18 April 8 (Sun) Axess opens for course enrollment. June 15 (Fri) Summer Quarter Cardinal Care Waiver Deadline; see the Cardinal Care web site June 15 (Fri) At-status enrollment deadline in order to receive stipend or financial aid refund within the first week of term. June 25 (Mon) First day of quarter; instruction begins. June 25 (Mon, 5:00 p.m.) Preliminary Study List deadline. June 25 (Mon) Deadline to submit Leave of Absence for full refund (see undergraduate leaves of absence and graduate leaves of absence). See Tuition and Refund Schedule for a full refund schedule. July 4 (Wed) Independence Day (holiday, no classes). July 6 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Final Study List deadline.Final day to add or drop a class; last day to adjust units on a variable-unit course. Last day for tuition reassessment for dropped courses or units. Students may withdraw from a course until the Course Withdrawal deadline and a W notation will appear on the transcript. July 27 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Term withdrawal deadline; last day to submit Leave of Absence to withdraw from the University with a partial refund. August 3 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Change of grading basis deadline. August 3 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Course withdrawal deadline. August 3 (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Application deadline for Summer Quarter degree conferral. August 11-16 (Sat-Thu) End-Quarter Period. August 16 (Thu) Last day of classes. August 16 (Thu) Last opportunity to arrange Incomplete in a course, at last class. August 17-18 (Fri-Sat) End-Quarter examinations. August 21 (Tue, 11:59 p.m.) Grades due. August 31 (Fri, noon) University thesis, D.M.A. final project, or Ph.D. dissertation, last day to submit. August 31Â   (Fri, 5:00 p.m.) Late application deadline for Summer Quarter degree conferral ($50 fee). September 27 (Thu)Â  Conferral of degrees, Summer Quarter.

Marketing part 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

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International Marketing Plan For Londons Ships

International Marketing Plan For Londons Ships 1. Executive summary This report presents an inclusive international marketing plan which has been formulated for Londons Ships, operating in the tourism industry of the UK. The marketing plan primarily aims to generate awareness within its target market regarding the products and services offered by the enterprise. This plan also aims to promote the historic partner museum ships with in the global tourists market. These partner museum ships are members of Londons Ships. This marketing plan is the primary plan formulated for a period of one year. The target market that has been defined by the marketing plan is formed of those people who keep keen interest in the UKs history and heritage and falls within the age bracket of 35 to 65. This target market lives in USA. The marketing plan has been designed upon carrying out an examination of the UK tourism industry. The industry has been influenced by the distressed economic condition and requires expansion with the help of the UK government. It has been furth er recognised that micro and macro industrial environment has the capability to impact the enterprise and its subsequent performance. The marketing plan identifies the objectives based upon which the marketing strategy and the communication channels have been proposed. This plan also ascertains the implementation plan with identified responsibilities and time period. Furthermore it has also been postulated that the plan should be persistently monitored and assessed against the performance indicators. The key factor based upon which the plan has been proposed is the consistent monitoring and reviewing of the performance and expected outcomes of the marketing plan so that performance issues can be addressed. 2. Objectives of the enterprise 2.1. To develop and expand the business of the enterprise by means of expanding the market and develop the brand of Londons Ships. 2.2. To propagate the museum ships as esteemed members of Londons Ships as well as the heritage of the UK. 2.3. To amplify the revenues generated by the business by means of accomplishing business sustainability and subsequent expansion. 3. Assessment of the environment of the market (source: Londons Ships corporate website; Business Source Premier, 2009, case study: Londons Ships of Historic Interest Partnership) 3.1. Micro environment: Carrying out the SWOT analysis of the enterprise, it has been assessed that the strengths are representation of the company as the heritage of the UK whereas the member vessels of the enterprise are some of the famous and well known museum ships. The weaknesses of the enterprise are its dependency on the tourism industry of the UK which had directly affected the performance of the enterprise. Londons Ships lacks in adapting to the technological innovation such as e- commerce website that can facilitate the business in increasing its sales and revenues through providing information, knowledge regarding the offered products and services by the enterprise. Additionally an e- commerce business infrastructure can also provide the international tourists to do online booking, which also is the missed opportunity by the company. Thirdly the major weakness has been observed as the uncompetitive website of the company which lags far behind in providing information and i nteraction of the business with its customers and stakeholders. The opportunities that lie ahead of the business are to take advantage of the investments by means of expanding and enhancing the e- marketing and online presence. Secondly with improvements that are expected in the UK economy are also expected to influence the industrial development, hence laying positive impacts on the business growth. The threats to the enterprise are seen in the form of competitive tourism industry of the UK which has the potential of attracting new market entrants who are eager to snatch the opportunities through forming associations with existing companies and increasing their market share. Secondly the other business affiliates such as hotels, car rental service providers etc can also threaten the company through making strategic alliances with the competitors. 3.2. Macro environment: the tourism industry of the UK had got affected by the existing economic turbulence. Therefore the tourists operators have been under constant scrutiny that whether or not these operators effectively furnish the value for money. The number of tourists visiting the UK has been declined since last nine years (Mintel Oxygen, 2009). Therefore the tourism industry is facing challenges in terms of attracting the tourists due to slow development, lower business revenues and scarcity of competent and skilled people. 3.3. It has been assessed that in order to provide efficient services by the industry, hit mandates persistent investments to be made in the development of people and the products. The tourism industry of the UK demonstrates high potential to survive even in the distressed economic situation nevertheless, significant considerations must be made by the government to promote UK tourism as one of the key economic drivers. The subsequent result of expanding the industry will be job creation within the industry, increased revenues that will be shared by the market and most importantly giving a boost and financial injection to the distressed and recovering UK economy. 4. Identification of the target market The marketing plan primarily aspires to target a single market which is USA market. Upon the effective implementation of this marketing plan, other target markets will be defined and approached. As indicated, the target market falls within age the age bracket of 35 to 65 years. The target market has been assessed to keep a keen interest in exploring the world tourists sites due to their expenditure power. A brief analysis of the USA market has been given below along with the reasons for choosing this market as the target market for the marketing plan: 4.1. PESTEL analysis of USA (USA country profile, Euromonitor International, a, b, c 2010) The political arena of the USA raises concerns due to its involvement and approach towards international politics. Within the USA the expenditure of the government on social security and Medicare contributes towards two- fifth of the spending of the federal government which has been accused of increasing with an unjustifiable rate. Therefore due to the economic turbulence this funding has been affected which translates into instability of the USA government. The economic condition of the country appears to be distressed. Although currently the GDP seems to be stagnant, however it is expected to grow up to 3.1 per cent by the end of year 2010. The GDP is also expected to grow up to 2.6 per cent by the end of year 2011. The social landscape indicates towards a high living standard inclusive of yearly and even frequent trend of holiday making. The tourism spending has increased by the end of 2009 whereas decline in the inflation rate also indicates towards a promising picture. There has been increasing interest noted by the global tourist industry in the UK tourism industry due to increased efforts made by the local industry in increasing inbound tourism in the UK (Mintel Oxygen, 2009). Out of the most famous tourism attractions in UK are its historical buildings, museums etc. There has been an increase in inbound tourism in the UK, hence attracting the tourists from the USA market has been done because the USA is bigger market with increasing expenditure on tourism. 5. Marketing Objectives The marketing objectives have been drawn on the business objectives of the enterprise as indicated in section 2. These objectives have been set as: 5.1. To obtain a larger market share of the global market and also obtaining a larger share up to five per cent of the USA market in first year of implementation of the marketing plan. 5.2. To develop the relationship with the customers and stakeholders of the enterprise. 5.3. To develop a brand of the enterprise by means of creating an awareness of the enterprise as well as museum vessels. 6. Proposing a marketing strategy (inspired by Bangs, 2002; Chinsall, 1995). The following marketing strategy has been proposed to be adapted by the enterprise so that the defined marketing objectives can be attained: 6.1. Product: The enterprise requires developing its product and branding portfolio by increasing the quality and operational characteristics of the products and services that are being offered to the customers. It is recommended that the developed products and services should be coordinated with the needs and demands of the USA tourists. In addition to the development of the product portfolio the enterprise also requires to provide effective customer services that are designed to gain ultimate customer satisfaction. These efforts should be made in line with the brand development initiatives under taken by the management. Within the same context, introducing products such as green tourism should also be introduced that supports preserving ecology and bio- diversity. The prime objective of the developed product and brand portfolio should be addressing the target market coupled with services such as loyalty scheme, extra mileage scheme, easing out the accessibility for the disabled tou rists. 6.2. Price: The adapted pricing strategy of the enterprise should be a combination of competitive and premium pricing strategy. This has been proposed so that the tourists can be capable enough of spending on the tourist products and attractions with varied choices. 6.3. Place: There is an immediate requirement of the development of the e- commerce based infrastructure of the enterprise. It has been therefore suggested that Londons Ships should form strategic alliances with other tower operators to come up with competitive tourists products laden with trade discounts, competitive products etc. The development of e- commerce channel should be in line with brand development as well as creating the brand awareness of the corporation and its products and services. 6.4. Promotion: The enterprise should adapt multiple promotional channels such as e- marketing, public relations, social networking and so forth. Most importantly the company should concentrate on making a strong and consistent presence of the company as well as expansion of e- commerce website within this regards it has been suggested that the company should make its distinction on major search engines like Yahoo, msn etc. The reason behind doing so is to generate online traffic for the company as well as including provision of shared links in coordination with other e- commerce websites / companies offering similar services and products to the customers. The company can also improve its web presence by means of including familiar key words and by means of paying a specific amount to major search engines so that the web link of Londons Ships can be sponsored and appear with the results of the search engine. This can be made possible through outsourcing a search engine placement comp any whose job is to generate customer awareness, increase online traffic etc. for the enterprise. Most importantly Londons Ships should adapt to the process of email marketing. An e- mail marketing campaign that is designed for generating revenues as well as retaining customers likely to provide benefits such as higher number of customers visiting the website, increased brand awareness, brand development. Further on email marketing can also benefit the company through giving a cost effective solution that is equally influential in attracting global tourists towards the UK tourism industry. Some of the compatible channels of communication of e- marketing are newsletters, brochures etc. 6.5. In addition to the above recommendations the company should also adapt to the online public relations so that the customers and stakeholders are consistently kept well informed about the company and the brand along with development of the brand in context of supporting global ecology, low carbon economy and green tourism pertaining to bio diversity. 6.6. Most importantly the company should also strengthen its relationships with its customers and business partners so that the objectives of retaining the customers and obtaining a higher percentage of global market share can be attained. 7. Implementation plan (inspired by Kotler, 2006) Strategy- Implementation plan -Identified responsibilities -Start date-End date. Develop products portfolio and brand of the company along with creating the product and brand awareness: implying marketing and advertising channels along with branding and online public relations actions in order to promote the product portfolio. Creation of the awareness of the company and its brand should be carried out through promotion the marketing massage which is influential enough to successfully attract the customers to the member vessels of the company. Marketing manager, executive and team members September 2010-August 2011. Develop competitive and premium pricing strategy Revisions of the pricing strategy so that the company offers varied prices that cater different social classes with in the identified target market. Competitive prices can be possibly accomplished through cutting down the cost of business. In order to premium price the products, the enterprise should undertake some strategic actions such as making strategic alliances with allied services (other tour operators) so that the customers can be provided with value for their money(family packages, annual passes, fast track access etc.). Marketing manager, operations manager and their team November 2010-March 2011. Develop relationship with the stake holders Develop communication channels so that the customers and stake holders are kept well informed about the developments and activities of the company. Marketing manager, Business manager and his team October 2010-August 2011. 8. The marketing budget The desired marketing budget for this marketing plan has been assessed to be  £ 20,000 for the first year. The desired resources that should be allocated for the implementation process of this plan are human capital, financial budget, and continued support of the management as well as marketing personnel. 9. Monitoring and evaluation The evaluation of the marketing plan should be carried out against the following performance indicators as suggested by Punniyamoorthy and Murali (2008). These indicators are higher number of customers, increased brand awareness, experiencing the anticipated outcomes of marketing activities, successfully implemented competitive and premium prices paid by the customers, improved quality of customer services, higher market share etc. 10. Critical Issues (source: drawn from the case study) Londons Ships is assessed to challenge by the following critical issues which must be addressed prior to the implementation of the marketing plan that has been proposed above: 10.1. A process of consistent monitoring and reviewing should be carried out so that the marketing manager is well aware of the performance evaluation of the plan and can take corrective measures accordingly. 10.2. In addition to the implementation of the marketing plan the company should also concentrate on the development of its e- commerce infrastructure and web site so that the proposed strategies can be effectively implemented. It is also important so that the customers / foreign tourists can draw information and knowledge regarding the company and partner museum ships through the website as well as securing online purchases long before entering into the UK. 10.3. Londons Ships should also adapt to strategic business practices such as development of e- supply chain, forming strategic alliances with business partners with an ambition of offering tourist packages etc. 10.4. In addition to above issues the management should ensure that the company is well equipped with skilled and competent personnel which is capable enough of coping with the significant changes that the company has been suggested to go through. Therefore sufficient amount of training and development needs to be provided to the people along with learning and identifying the needs and demands of the people. References and Bibliography Adrian, P (2001) Principles of Services Marketing, (3rd edn) McGraw Hill Business Source Premier (2009) ‘Tourism crucial to UK recovery, Caterer and Hotelkeeper, 199:4583 Buttle, F (1996) Relationship Marketing: Theory and Practice, Sage Brassington, F and Pettitt, S (2006) Principles of Marketing, (4th edn), FT Prentice Hall Bangs, D (2002) The Market Planning Guide: Creating a Plan to Successfully Market Your Business, Product, Or Service (6th edn), Kaplan Publishing Buhalis, D and Costa, C (2006) Tourism Frontiers: Industry, Elsevier/Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford, UK Buhalis, D and Costa, C (2004) Tourism Management Dynamics: Trends, Management and Tools, Elsevier/Butterworth Heinemann, London Cox, E (2001) Diffusion of forecasting principles through books, In J. S. Armstrong (ed.), Principles of Forecasting / J. E. Cox, D.G. Loomis, Boston: Kluwer Academic Publishers,. Choy, L (1995) The quality of tourism employment, Tourism Management, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 129-37 Chinsall, P (1995) Strategic Business marketing, (3rd edn) Prentice Hall Chaston, I (2001) e-Marketing Strategy, McGraw-Hill Christopher, M et al. (1993) Relationship Marketing: Bringing Quality, Customer Service and Marketing Together, Butterworth-Heinnemann Clarke et al. (1998) Relationship Marketing, Financial Times Management. Doyle, P (2006) Marketing Management Strategy, (4th edn), FT Prentice Hall Dlabay et al (2005) Intro to Business: Finance, Marketing, Operations, Management, Thomson South-Western Euromonitor International (2010 a) USA: Country Profile 2010, Euromonitor International Euromonitor International (2010 b) Travel and tourism- United Kingdom, Euromonitor International Euromonitor International (2010 c) Travel and tourism- USA, Euromonitor International Edgell, L (1995) â€Å"A barrier-free future for tourism†, Tourism Management, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 107-10. Finn, A. and Erdem, T (1995) â€Å"The economic impact of a mega-multi-mall. Estimation issues in the case of West Edmonton Mall†, Tourism Management, Vol. 16 No. 5, pp. 367-73. Gilligan, C et al (2003) ‘Strategic marketing planning, Butterworth-Heinemann Gonzalez, A and Bello, L (2002) ‘The construct â€Å"lifestyle† in market segmentation: The behaviour of tourist consumers, European Journal of Marketing, Vol 36:No 1/2, pp. 51-85 Hollensen, S (2007) Global Marketing, Pearson Education Limited, England Lambin, J (2000) Market-Driven Management, MacMillan Hosuton, B et al. (2002) Business strategy: an introduction, (2nd edn), Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford Kotler, P (2000) Marketing Management, Millennium Edition, Prentice Hall Kuhn, R (2002) Process-based strategic planning, (2nd edn), Springer Londons Ships corporate website (2010) ‘About us [online] Available from Mintel Oxygen (2009) ‘Inbound Tourism- UK-November 2009, Mintel Oxygen Payne, A et al. (1998) Relationship Marketing for Competitive Advantage: Winning and Keeping Customers, Butterworth-Heinnemann, Porter, M (1985) Competitive advantage: creating and sustaining superior performance, Free Press, New York Ryan, C (1995) â€Å"Tourism courses: a new concern for a new time†, Tourism Management, Vol. 16 No. 3, pp. 97-100. Find out more from UK Essays here: http://www.ukessays.com/services/example-essays/marketing/international-marketing-plan-londons-ships.php#ixzz3EEh1jQiX