Social Impact of Travel
Cultural Interaction and Diversity
Everyone has their own motivation to travel the world.
For many, it’s a time to enjoy relaxation while for some it’s an opportunity to experience a unique culture.
The desire to explore a way of life different from your own. Awakening your senses, with the unfamiliar sounds and fragrant smells in the street, while embracing the curiosity and warm hospitality of the local people.
The chance encounters with a young man who has the courage to approach you to practice his English or the young children beaming with excitement as they wave to you in the street.
The meaningful moments, not found in any travel guide, are often what can leave a lasting impression.
The beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people.
Unknown
Social impact of travel
Social Benefits of Tourism
Not only do we as visitors get to experience a culture and a way of living different from our own but these beautiful connections made when we travel can have a positive impact on the local people.
Quality of Life
Tourism contributes to improvements in health, comfort, and overall happiness for the local population.
Infrastructure Upgrades
Tourism drives the demand for improved transport, electricity, water, communications, and facilities which will benefit the local people.
Local Pride
The local people are often very welcoming to visitors and proud to show them around their communities and speak about local culture.
Opportunities For All
A rise in tourism encourages local business development and job creation including opportunities for women and vulnerable populations.
Cross Culture Interaction
Tourism helps develop relationships with different cultures which leads to sharing of ideas and influence that encourages tolerance and acceptance.
Preserve Culture
Tourism contributes to the protection and preservation of important historical and cultural sites.
Social Downside of Tourism
It’s important to understand how our actions can influence and negatively impact the people who live in the places we are visiting.
1. Displacement of Locals
Tourist development sometimes forces local people to move off their land or makes it difficult for them to afford rising living expenses so they have no choice but to relocate.
2. Overtourism
When a popular tourist destination becomes overcrowded it can negatively impact the quality of life of the local people.
3. Acculturation
Local communities often suffer from a loss of culture when they adapt traditional values and local customs to help modernize society in order to attract more tourism.
4. Voluntourism
Volunteer organizations do not all have good intentions. Children or underprivileged individuals sometimes suffer abuse for financial gain and children risk developing attachment issues.
5. Negative Emotions
Disrespectful behavior by tourists who lack an understanding of local customs and culture can lead to feelings of resentment towards tourists by the local people.
6. Economic Disadvantages
With a rise in tourism to an area, it can also mean an increase in the cost of living for the local people who don’t necessarily see financial gain.
7. Demonstration Effect
Local people are often influenced by behaviors they observe through their interaction with tourists which can diminish traditional culture and values.
Ways To Be More Socially Responsible Travelers
Showing respect to the local people and educating ourselves about the places we’re visiting will only enhance our experience and the relationships we build on our travels.
