Abstract
Romania is keen to develop its tourism industry (which has a solid history stretching back to before the second world war) as one part of its economic and social restructuring programme. However, there are major technical and cultural problems that block the path to progress. One of these problems is the shortage of adequately trained and educated employees and managers. This article identifies and discusses some of these problems and finishes with a case study which examines the role and future direction of the national hotel training institute.