What does the term gateway refer to in travel?

The term gateway in travel refers specifically to a city that serves as an arrival or departure point for international travel. This means that these cities typically have major airports or transport hubs that connect travelers to various destinations around the world. They act as key entry and exit points, facilitating a large volume of international travel.

For example, cities like New York, London, or Dubai are considered gateways because they have international airports that serve as focal points for travelers moving to and from different countries. These gateways often offer extensive flight connections, making it convenient for travelers to reach their final destinations from these main hubs.

The other options, while related to travel, do not accurately capture the specific definition of a gateway. A city being a tourist destination or a launch point for local attractions describes different aspects of travel that do not encompass the broader function of facilitating international travel. Similarly, while historical significance can make a city interesting, it does not define its role as an entry or exit point in global travel.