essay about the importance of culture in tourism

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The Role and Importance of Cultural Tourism in Modern Tourism Industry

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International Journal of Scientific Management and Tourism, 2015, Vol.2 pp 179-215

António S . Queirós

The main terms, such Culture, Cultural Landscape, Heritage or Cultural Tourism are not neutral scientific objects. They are academic constructions emerging in historical contexts. The concept of " motivation " is consensual for understand and explain the nature of the tourism demand, but is sufficient? We think no. We need enlarging the hermeneutic of tourism with the concept of " taste ". They are linked to a consensual paradigm. This paper wants to discuss this conceptual framework, discovering at the same time if we are in presence of some anomalies, observe multiple, unexplained or unexpected events and if a rival paradigm emerges. The second line of debate is about the connection between cultural tourism and tourism economy. Researching how is create and reproduced the capital of tourism and recognising the cultural values and products penetration in the tourism activity. Their propose: Restructuring tourism for more competitiveness and productivity (and sustainability) meaning to offer new Route and Circuits integrating cultural heritage and patrimony of nature. The third line want to discuss the idea of Cultural Tourism based on built heritage, views and lifestyle, as well as events and happenings, from a critical view. Our goal will be to build a conceptual framework to design the identity of Cultural Tourism and different types of tourism. This theoretical framework must be the same. Those principles must be commons. Our thesis is that those principles are the different organic structures and products. Different organic structures and products can to distinguish tourism cultural from tourism of nature; tourism of nature from rural tourism…and so one. A new conceptual research framework emerges and a new tourism paradigm: Environmental Tourism.

greg richards

Ion Ciobanu

Abstract: The identity as its given bivalency by the simultaneous search of its uniquness and its integrations is viewed in the up todate modernity (postmodernism) as a pressure created by both vast projects, not only economical or political but also of identification resulted as ...

Armin Mikos von Rohrscheidt

Abstract After reviewing and briefly analyzing the contents and scope of several definitions of cultural tourism used in official classifications, in scientific considerations and in teaching practice, the author of the article proposes a functional definition of the phenomenon, by referring to the commonly used term of tourism as a primary concept. The suggested definition on the one hand takes into account both current (broad) understanding of culture and itineraries (goals and programs) of tourist expeditions, and on the other hand it considers the aspect of tourists’ culture-related motivation. The author’s goal is to provide and spread a useful tool to classify tourism products, and as a consequence, to contribute to standardization of Polish professional terminology related to cultural tourism. The proposal should be treated as a starting point for a discussion to be continued by specialists, concerning the definition of cultural tourism, where such discussion should also take into account entities involved in organization of tourism and their needs.

Joanna Dziadowiec-Greganić

Until recently, cultural studies was a part of knowledge that was treated by the academic world in an ambivalent way. On one hand, there was a belief that the humanities, including the social sciences, in some way belong to each other, with the understanding that they at least partly create a common field. On the other hand, there was a visible tendency to diversify the expanding specializations, by creating new disciplines of knowledge which were separated from the original core. Cultural studies were perceived as an eclectic type of knowledge embracing almost everything, starting with demography and archeology through sociology, psychology and history, also encompassing economics and cultural management. This situation was also expressed by the institutional structure of scientific disciplines. Nowadays it has become apparent that this postmodern fragmentization of culture is petering out. This has created the necessity of a new synthesis in the humanities. It has resulted in the institutionalization of ‘cultural studies’ for which the Polish equivalent can be expressed as ‘kulturoznawstwo.’ Moreover, in relation to postmodernism, (especially models of postmodern narration and phenomena such as over interpretation while analyzing an investigated object), which is a common feature of all the humanities, we may go beyond the postmodern canons. While postmodernism is becoming the subject of reflection in the history of knowledge, there are new methodological propositions coming to light. They are partly the continuation of but also the opposition to postmodern depictions. In that exact moment, cultural studies as a scientific discipline arises. These two reasons, one institutional and the other thematic, have become an invitation for discussion about the identity of cultural studies as a field of knowledge. The aim of the conference was to bring together researchers who are engaged in research on culture. The discussion was not limited to their differences, but also included common points in particular disciplines. The research subject has taken the first step towards formulating a general methodology of the science of culture. The variety of presented research perspectives and the problems which cultural studies will face points towards the necessity of further ventures which would organize and order both subjects and methods of cultural studies research. The opportunity to take more profound reflections and desired polemics in this field will surely be included in the publication of the post-conference materials.

Bibin Sebastian

Cultural studies has become an unavoidable part of literary criticism and theory. Cultural studies is an advanced interdisciplinary arena of research and teaching that examines the means in which "culture" creates and transforms day to day life, individual experiences, power and social relations. As a developing field of study it is important to know the beginning and growth of cultural studies as a field of knowledge. This article is an attempt to present an introductory information regarding the beginning, definitions, schools important theoreticians and practical aspects of cultural studies. This study is analytical in nature and historical information are presented mostly. The objective of this article is to give a quick understanding about the beginners in the field of Cultural studies.

Tourism of Culture

Tourism of culture Journal

Tourism, the act of traveling across the geographical locations, is the product of a systemic combination of meaning and knowledge taking place in the context of culture and is part of it. An essential concept in tourism, culture both gives it meaning to promote and makes it possible to be conceived. How to view and question the culture distinguishes "tourism of culture" from cultural tourism", the concepts which often are interchangeably used. Regarding this difference, tourism of culture rather than cultural tourism has been selected. It should be borne in mind that when the quiddity of a cultural product questioned by "What is it like?" is a matter of concern, cultural tourism is involved whereas, if the ontology of culture is questioned, tourism of culture is considered. Differentiating between culture and cultural as two key concepts, this paper examines the effect of this difference on plans and measures done in the neglected tourism of culture field which requires to be underscored.

Trends and Issues in Global Tourism

Albrecht Steinecke

Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Tourism, Gastronomy, and Tourist Destination (ICTGTD 2018)

dian octarina

Ksenija Vodeb

In modern tourism the concept of big and mass tourism has been abandoned and support given to responsible development based on selected programmes and types of tourism, which leads to a new differentiation and quality in the increasingly demanding tourist market. The existing mass and uniform types of tourism are being refined by new and higher quality contents. In that context, culture has a direct impact on tourism and tourism increasingly affects culture, which has become an important motive for tourist travel. While some thirty years ago cultural tourism implied heritage tourism, i.e. visits to cultural and historical monuments, museums and galleries, some ten years ago that phenomenon underwent its transformation, so that today the same term also includes various social, cultural and entertainment events. The aim of this chapter is to provide a broader introduction into the highly diverse and complex topic of cultural tourism and highlight some of its most distinguished feature...

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Social Cultural Impacts of Tourism Essay

Introduction, positive social cultural impacts of tourism, negative social cultural impacts of tourism, factors that influence the social cultural impact of tourism, reference list.

The social cultural impact of tourism refers to the positive and negative effect or impact of tourism on the cultural heritage, traditions, customs, and social life style of host communities. This paper will look at the positive and negative socio-cultural impacts of tourism on host communities and tourists, as well as the different factors that influence these impacts.

It is, however, important to keep in mind that all society’s problems can not be blamed on tourism, nor can all positive social developments be attributed to tourism (Liu 2003, p. 25). There are other factors that contribute to society’s problems and development, such as globalization and the influence of the mass media.

The positive socio-cultural impacts of tourism include employment, improvement of infrastructure, transfer of knowledge into a country, and improvement to the economy. These are discussed in the following subsections.

In most countries, the tourism sector provides employment opportunities to a huge percentage of the population. To facilitate tourism operations, people get employed to work in the hotel industry, the transport sector, and national parks as tour guides (Green 2005, p. 13). The economic benefits that are derived from tourism in terms of employment of a nation’s population ultimately impact people’s standard of living.

Provision of Shared Infrastructure

The development of tourist infrastructure, such as airports and leisure facilities, can also benefit local communities, as long as the infrastructure is not developed for the exclusive use of tourists (Allen et al. 1993). This tourist infrastructure affects the social and cultural lives of local communities because their way of living would have been different had the infrastructure not been established and shared.

For example, Maun, which is a rural area in Botswana, is a famous fast stop destination for tourists visiting the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve. Existing leisure facilities such as modern international airport, restaurants and shopping malls were originally intended for tourists, but are also shared by the local community (Long et al. 1990). Therefore, the social lives and contemporary culture of local residents are remarkably different from those in other major villages in Botswana.

Transfer of Knowledge into a Country

Tourism promotes the transfer of knowledge to the host country. When experienced people from a developed country visit a developing country, opportunities are created for knowledge to be transferred from one community to another. Ultimately, developing countries are able to benefit.

Economic Improvement

Most tourist destinations across the world are able to improve their economies as a result of tourism activities. Among others, tourism enables countries to earn foreign currency which enables them to effectively trade with foreign states. In Kenya, the tourism sector employs a large number of people who work in world class hotels and the transport sector, among others. Tourism also contributes greatly to national income.

Some of the negative socio-cultural impacts of tourism on the host community include decline in morality, interruption of family and gender relationships, interference with value systems and religions, reduction of culture to a commodity, and staged authenticity. These are discussed as follows.

Decline in Morality in Society

Exposure to the different values of tourists and, in some cases, irresponsible tourist behavior, may give rise to various moral and societal problems, such as crime, prostitution, gambling, unhealthy eating and drinking, and drug abuse.

Interruption of Family and Gender Relationships

In many traditional societies, the father, who is the head of the family, has the responsibility to provide for his family. By providing employment, wages, and a disposable income to other members of the traditional family unit, which can be seen as a positive development, tourism can interrupt traditional family and gender relationships, and create discord in the family.

The end result may be communities that do not function properly because the traditional division of work has been overruled and undermined (McGehee & Andereck 2004).

An example of this disruption can be observed in the families of the employees of safari companies that operate in the Okavango Delta and are separated from their families for months on end. However, it must be noted that interruption of family and gender relationships, as is the case with the other impacts, can not be attributed to tourism alone, as there are other industries, such as the mining industry, that also tend to have the same effect.

Interference with Value Systems and Religion

Tourism may introduce different and sometimes opposing values to established value systems and religion. On the one hand, host communities in developing countries sometimes perceive tourists from developed countries as too liberal and lacking in morals, and find them insensitive to local norms and taboos. On the other hand, local populations often reject old ways and adopt the ways of visitors too quickly. This most often happens if the practices are from rich, developed countries and the local population is in a less wealthy developing country (Murphy 1981, p. 56). While adopting foreign practices may not always be bad, it may cause culture shock, lack of social cohesion, and loss of cultural identity if it happens too quickly. No human culture should ever be sacrificed at the expense of another.

Reducing Culture to a Commodity

This involves reducing culture to another product with a price tag. In the context of the cultural impact of tourism, this wears the worth, dignity, value, and sanctity of particular cultures. Cultural practices, although often preserved by tourist interest, may lose their real value and meaning.

An example includes the practice of performing sacred dances and rituals for the tourists for money. Similarly, watching the divination by a traditional healer, sangoma, or inyanga, can reduce it from being a spiritual exercise to a financial transaction or theatrical performance.

Staged Authenticity

This is experienced when the host community stages or enacts certain authentic elements of its culture for the benefits of tourists, even though those cultural elements may no longer be part of their normal modern daily living. This means that authentic elements of culture become rehearsed and non-authentic as they are performed out of context.

Examples of authentic cultural elements that may be staged out of context for tourists include traditional dances, certain rituals or practices, the wearing of traditional dresses purely for the benefit of tourists, and the re-enactment of long gone or ancient lifestyles.

In all the above, while these elements may be an authentic representation of how the hosts used to live, they may not be a true reflection of how they live today, and hence the representation is reduced to a mere staging of something.

As an example, think of an authentic traditional dance performance by singers in animal skins at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg. The problem with this performance is that it may not be a true reflection of the contemporary and living culture of the place, and might even reinforce tourist’s perception that, in this particular case, Africans are still primitive.

In general, the social cultural impact of tourism is not the same across the world, and a number of factors affect the impact of tourism on any community.

Ordinarily, most tourist-host interactions occur at the tourist destination region, when tourists purchase goods and services from local people, when tourists and local residents use the same facilities such as beaches, shops, restaurants, and other amenities and infrastructure, or when they purposefully meet to exchange ideas and information.

The type of interaction between tourists and hosts influence the relationship and the attitudes they have towards each other, and this in turn influences the social cultural impact of tourism (Wang & Pfister 2008).

The tourist-host relationship and thus the social cultural impact of tourism is affected by the differences between tourists and hosts, the type of contact between tourists and hosts, the importance of tourism in a community, and community tolerance threshold which refers to how willing a community is to bear the inflow of tourists and their influences. These are discussed as follows.

Differences between Tourists and Hosts

The differences between tourists and hosts that can affect the social cultural impact of tourism are their basic value and logic systems, religious beliefs, traditions, customs, lifestyles, behavioral patterns, dress codes, sense of time budgeting, and attitudes towards strangers.

Basic Value and Logic Systems

The values and the logic systems of a host community and tourists will determine what they value and how they value it. If the hosts and tourists have different values and logic systems, it could cause attraction or resentment whenever there is an interaction.

Religion, Traditions, and Customs

When tourists and hosts belonging to different religions come into contact with one another, there are likely to be shocks and new discoveries. For example, the public display of affection between males and female Christian tourists may be shocking to many Muslims in the Middle East.

Contact between tourists and hosts whose traditions differ might cause greater impact. For example, the scantily dressed tourist may, in the long run, impact on the dress code of many rural communities in Africa. The reaction might be to copy them or loathe them for not adhering to local norms and social codes. Variations in traditional practices can be found even among people of the same race and language.

The similarity of customs between the guest and the hosts lessen the possibility of misunderstanding each other. For example, tourists from Cape Town visiting Durban will find many customary similarities to their hosts and may not have any impact on their host community. Differences in customs, however, do not always mean that there will be a negative social cultural impact.

Lifestyle differences can be caused by income differences. The rich tend to lead similar lifestyles even though their cultures may not be identical, as the way they spend their money on property, travel, and entertainment, for example, is usually similar. Such lifestyle differences might have an impact if the hosts copy, envy, or morally judge the tourists, or vice versa (Pizam 1978, p. 98).

When the dress code of tourists is different from that of hosts, the hosts tend to be either attracted to or offended by the dress of the visitors. In most cases, the hosts tend to envy and copy the dress style of tourists, which may not always be acceptable.

Sense of Time Budgeting

People from developed countries generally value time and think that it is polite to be on time for appointments. On the other hand, people from developing countries generally have a more relaxed attitude towards time, and are not as strict in keeping appointments. Such differences can be a source of misunderstanding or even conflict between tourists and the host community.

Attitude towards Strangers

Some cultures and societies view strangers with suspicion while other cultures are more open towards outsiders. The more open the host communities are towards strangers, the greater the social cultural impact of tourism is likely to be on them.

Type of Contact between Tourists and Hosts

The type of activities tourists engage in, such as passive or active activities, can determine the type of contact and level of interaction with a community. The more active the activity, the greater the interaction with the host community, and the more likely tourism is to have an impact on them (Lankford 1994, p. 35).

For example, formal contact, as in the case where tourists receive services from their hosts, makes it necessary for tourists and the local community to interact with each other and is a platform where cultures, norms, and values are exchanged. Thus, it is an opportunity for both parties to copy the behavior and mannerisms of the other.

In a similar way, informal contact that takes place where tourists and hosts share the same facilities such as stadiums, streets, or beaches may have either a good or bad influence on tourists or hosts or both.

The Importance of Tourism in the Community

The way tourism is perceived by the local people in communities, especially their perceptions about its importance to their livelihood, will impact on tourist-host relationship. In cases where there is an excitement about tourists and the benefits that their presence will bring, the tourist-host relationship is usually good due to mutual admiration between tourists and their hosts (Hafeznia et al. 2007).

In contrast, when the novelty of meeting new cultures wears off and tourists begin to irritate the locals, probably due to their large numbers, their competing for the limited resources with locals, or the real or perceived ills that tourists bring, tourism might be seen as having less importance and a more antagonistic relationship will begin to develop (Huang & Stewart 1996).

Community Tolerance Threshold

As stated earlier community tolerance threshold refers to how willing a community is to bear the inflow of tourists and their influences. Where the members of a community are less irritable and able to accept tourists regardless of their mannerisms, then tourism will have an impact on them (Aref & Redzuan 2010). On the other hand, when members of the host community are irritable, it becomes very difficult for tourists to penetrate their society and the tourism will have little or no impact at all on the local community.

As explained in this paper, the social cultural impact of tourism is not the same across the world. Various factors that differ from location to location influence not only the type of impact, but also whether those impacts will be negative or positive.

The type of interaction between tourists and hosts influences their relationship and the attitudes they have towards one another, and this in turn influences the social cultural impact of tourism. Typically, the tourist-host relationship and thus the social cultural impact of tourism are affected by differences between tourists and the host communities. Other factors are the type of contacts created and how tourism is regarded by the local community.

The location of tourism, such as a rural or urban location or in a developed or developing country, determines whether the social cultural impact on the location will be positive or negative. To a great extent, the number of tourists visiting a location affects the level of impact on the host community. For example, a large number of tourists will have a greater influence on the host community, because there are many chances of a local person meeting a tourist.

The origin of tourists also affects the social cultural impact of tourism because there might be notable differences between them and the hosts due to their origin, which might intensify the impact. The stage of tourism development in a destination affects the host community’s knowledge of tourism and attitude towards tourists, and its reaction to tourism.

Reactions of host communities in the development stage can include hostility, lack of charity, and imitation. These in turn affect the nature of social cultural impacts that result from tourism. To some degree, the length of the tourist season influences the intensity of the social cultural impact. The longer the interaction, the greater the impact of tourism on the host community will be.

Allen, LR, Hafer, HR, Long, PT & Perdue, RR, 1993, ‘Rural Residents’ Attitudes toward Recreation and Tourism Development’, Journal of Travel Research , Vol. 31, No. 4, pp. 27 – 33.

Aref, F & Redzuan, M 2010, ‘Community Leaders’ Perceptions towards Socio-cultural Impacts of Tourism on Local Communities’, Journal of Human Ecology , 29 (2): 87 – 91.

Green, R 2005, ‘Community Perceptions of Environmental and Social Change and Tourism Development on the Island of Koh Samui, Thailand’, Journal of Environmental Psychology , 25 (1): 37 – 56.

Hafeznia, R, Eftekhari, A & Ramazani, I 2007, ‘A Comparative Study on the Tourism Policies in Pre and Post Islamic Revolution of Iran, Case Study: Babolsar in the Coast of Caspian Sea’. Journal of Applied Sciences , 7 (24): 3836 – 3874.

Huang, Y & Stewart, P 1996, ‘Rural tourism development: Shifting basis of community solidarity’, Journal of Travel Research , 35 (4): 26 – 31.

Lankford, S 1994, ‘Attitudes and Perceptions toward Tourism and Rural Regional Development’, Journal of Travel Research , 32 (3): 35 – 43.

Liu, Z 2003, ‘Sustainable Tourism Development: A Critique’, Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 11 (6): 459 – 475.

Long, PT, Perdue, RR & Allen, L 1990, ‘Rural Resident Tourism Perceptions and Attitudes by Community Level of Tourism’, Journal of Travel Research , Vol. 28, No. 3, pp. 3 – 9.

McGehee, G & Andereck, L 2004, ‘Factors Predicting Rural Residents’ Support of Tourism’, Journal of Travel Research , 43: 131 – 140.

Murphy, PE 1981, ‘Community Attitudes to Tourism: A Comparative Analysis’, International Journal of Tourism Management , Vol. 2, No. 3, pp.189 – 195.

Pizam, A 1978, ‘Tourism Impacts: The Social Costs To The Destination Community as Perceived by Its Residents’, Journal of Travel Research , 16: 8 – 12.

Wang, Y & Pfister, E 2008, ‘Residents’ Attitudes toward Tourism and Perceived Personal Benefits in a Rural Community’, Journal of Travel Research , 47: 84 – 93.

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Tourism Essay for Students and Children

500+ Words Essay on Tourism

Tourism Essay – Tourism is a major economic activity that has developed significantly over the years. It’s an activity that can be recognized in both developed and developing nations. In general terms, tourism is the movement of a person from one place to another to visit and mesmerize the beauty of that place or to have fun. Moreover, the concept of traveling is considered a luxury and only people with higher income can afford this luxury.

The Growth of Tourism

Earlier our ancestors used to travel by sea routes as it was a convenient and most affordable medium but it was time taking. Due to, technological advancement we can now easily travel to any place without wasting time we can travel thousands of miles within a few hours. Technological advancement has shrunk the earth into a global village. Besides, the modern modes are much safer than the modes that our predecessors used.

Effect of Tourism on a Country

For any country, tourism generates a lot of money especially a country like India. Due to the Taj Mahal (one of the seven wonders of the world) every year the government raise a huge sum of revenue. Also, because of tourism other industries also bloom. Such industries include transportation, wildlife, arts and entertainment, accommodation, etc.

Moreover, this ultimately leads to the creation of job and other opportunities in the area. But there are some drawbacks too which can affect the lifestyle and cultural value of the country.

Importance of Tourism

Traveling is a tiring and difficult thing and not everyone is able to travel. But at the same time, it’s a fun activity that takes your tiredness away. Travelling adds flavor to life as you travel to different places that have a different culture and lifestyle. Also, it’s an easy way to learn about the culture and tradition of a place. Besides, for many areas, tourism is their main source of income.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

India- A Tourist Attraction

The Taj Mahal is not the only destination in India that attract tourist. Likewise, there are hundreds of tourist destination that is spread over the Indian plateau. India has a large variety of Flora and Fauna. Besides, the equator divides the geographical land of India into almost two equal halves that make India a country where six seasons occurs.

Moreover, in almost every city of India, there is a historical monument made by the rulers in their time period.

Benefits of Tourism

Tourism not only benefits the government but also the people that live in the local area. It also creates a business as well as employment opportunities for the local people which ultimately help the government to earn income.

Benefits Due to Tourism

As we know that tourism contributes a lot to the revenue of the country. Also, the government uses this income for the growth and development of the country. Likewise, they construct dams, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, Dharamshala and many more.

In conclusion, we can say that tourism is a very productive activity both for the tourist and the government. As they support each other simultaneously. Also, the government should consider improving the conditions of the country as more and more number of tourist visit their country.

Above all, tourism is one of the fastest-growing industry in the world that has changed the scenario of the world.

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21 reasons why tourism is important – the importance of tourism

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Tourism is important, more important than most people realise in fact!

The importance of tourism is demonstrated throughout the world. From the economic advantages that tourism brings to host communities to the enjoyment that tourism brings to the tourists themselves, there is no disputing the value of this industry.

The importance of tourism can be viewed from two perspectives: the tourism industry and the tourist. In this article I will explain how both the industry and the tourist benefit from the tourism industry and why it is so important on a global scale.

What is the importance of tourism?

Enhanced quality of life, ability to broaden way of thinking, educational value, ability to ‘escape’, rest and relaxation, enhanced wellbeing, who are tourism industry stakeholders, foreign exchange earnings, contribution to government revenues, employment generation, contribution to local economies, overall economy boost, preserving local culture, strengthening communities, provision of social services, commercialisation of culture and art, revitalisation of culture and art, preservation of heritage, empowering communities, protecting nature, the importance of tourism: political gains, why tourism is important: to conclude, the importance of tourism: further reading.

When many people think about the tourism industry they visualise only the front-line workers- the Holiday Representative, the Waiter, the Diving Instructor. But in reality, the tourism industry stretches much, much further than this.

As demonstrated in the infographic below, tourism is important in many different ways. The tourism industry is closely interconnected with a number of global industries and sectors ranging from trade to ecological conservation.

Why tourism is important to the tourist

When we discuss the importance of tourism it is often somewhat one-sided, taking into consideration predominantly those working in the industry and their connections.

However, the tourist is just as important, as without them there would be no tourism!

Below are just a few examples of the importance of tourism to the tourist:

Taking a holiday can greatly benefit a person’s quality of life. While different people have very different ideas of what makes a good holiday (there are more than 150 types of tourism after all!), a holiday does have the potential to enhance quality of life.

Travel is known to help broaden a person’s way of thinking. Travel introduces you to new experiences, new cultures and new ways of life.

Many people claim thatchy ‘find themselves’ while travelling.

One reason why tourism is important is education.The importance of tourism can be attributed to the educational value that it provides. Travellers and tourists can learn many things while undertaking a tourist experience, from tasting authentic local dishes to learning about the exotic animals that they may encounter.

Tourism provides the opportunity for escapism. Escapism can be good for the mind. It can help you to relax, which in turn often helps you to be more productive in the workplace and in every day life.

This is another way that the importance of tourism is demonstrated.

Rest and relaxation is very important. Taking time out for yourself helps you to be a happier, healthier person.

Having the opportunity for rest and relaxation in turn helps to enhance wellbeing.

Why tourism is important to stakeholders

There are many reasons why tourism is important to the people involved. There are many people who work either directly or indirectly with the tourism industry and who are therefore described as stakeholders. You can read more about tourism stakeholders and why they are important in this post- Stakeholders in tourism: Who are they and why do they matter?

The benefits of tourism are largely related to said stakeholders in some way or another. Below are some examples of how stakeholders benefit from tourism, organised by economic, social, environmental and political gains; demonstrating the importance of tourism.

The importance of tourism: Economic gains

Perhaps the most cited reason in reference to the importance of tourism is its economic value. Tourism can help economies to bring in money in a number of different ways. Below I have provided some examples of the positive economic impacts of tourism .

The importance of tourism is demonstrated through foreign exchange earnings. 

Tourism expenditures generate income to the host economy. The money that the country makes from tourism can then be reinvested in the economy. How a destination manages their finances differs around the world; some destinations may spend this money on growing their tourism industry further, some may spend this money on public services such as education or healthcare and some destinations suffer extreme corruption so nobody really knows where the money ends up! 

Some currencies are worth more than others and so some countries will target tourists from particular areas. Currencies that are strong are generally the most desirable currencies. This typically includes the British Pound, American, Australian and Singapore Dollar and the Euro . 

Tourism is one of the top five export categories for as many as 83% of countries and is a main source of foreign exchange earnings for at least 38% of countries.

The importance of tourism is also demonstrated through the money that is raised and contributed to government revenues. Tourism can help to raise money that it then invested elsewhere by the Government. There are two main ways that this money is accumulated. 

Direct contributions  are generated by taxes on incomes from tourism employment and tourism businesses and things such as departure taxes. 

According to the World Tourism Organisation , the direct contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP in 2018 was $2,750.7billion (3.2% of GDP). This is forecast to rise by 3.6% to $2,849.2billion in 2019.

Indirect contributions  come from goods and services supplied to tourists which are not directly related to the tourism industry. 

There is also the income that is generated through  induced contributions . This accounts for money spent by the people who are employed in the tourism industry. This might include costs for housing, food, clothing and leisure Activities amongst others. This will all contribute to an increase in economic activity in the area where tourism is being developed. 

The importance of tourism can be demonstrated through employment generation.

The rapid expansion of international tourism has led to significant employment creation. From hotel managers to theme park operatives to cleaners, tourism creates many employment opportunities. Tourism supports some 7% of the world’s workers. 

There are two types of employment in the tourism industry: direct and indirect. 

Direct employment  includes jobs that are immediately associated with the tourism industry. This might include hotel staff, restaurant staff or taxi drivers, to name a few. 

Indirect employment includes jobs which are not technically based in the tourism industry, but are related to the tourism industry.

It is because of these indirect relationships, that it is very difficult to accurately measure the precise economic value of tourism, and some suggest that the actual economic benefits of tourism may be as high as double that of the recorded figures!

The importance of tourism can be further seen through the contributions to local economies.

All of the money raised, whether through formal or informal means, has the potential to contribute to the local economy. 

If  sustainable tourism  is demonstrated, money will be directed to areas that will benefit the local community most. There may be pro-poor tourism initiatives (tourism which is intended to help the poor) or  volunteer tourism  projects. The government may reinvest money towards public services and money earned by tourism employees will be spent in the local community. This is known as the multiplier effect. 

Tourism boosts the economy exponentially. This is partly because of the aforementioned jobs that tourism creates, but also because of the temporary addition to the consumer population that occurs when someone travels to a new place. Just think: when you travel, you’re spending money. You’re paying to stay in a hotel or hostel in a certain area – then you’re eating in local restaurants, using local public transport, buying souvenirs and ice cream and new flip flops. As a tourist, you are contributing to the global economy every time you book and take a trip.

For some towns, cities and even whole countries, the importance of tourism is greater than for other. In some cases, it is the main source of income. For example, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism accounts for almost 40% of the Maldives’ total GDP. In comparison, it’s less than 4% in the UK and even lower in the US! In the Seychelles the number is just over 26% while in the British Virgin Islands it is over 35% – so tourism is vastly important in these nations.

The importance of tourism: Social gains

The importance of tourism is not only recognised through economic factors, but there are also many positive social impacts of tourism that play an important part. Below I will outline some of the social gains from tourism.

It is the local culture that the tourists are often coming to visit and this is another way to demonstrate the importance of tourism.

Tourists visit Beijing to learn more about the Chinese Dynasties. Tourists visit Thailand to taste authentic Thai food. Tourists travel to Brazil to go to the Rio Carnival, to mention a few…

Many destinations will make a conserved effort to preserve and protect the local culture. This often contributes to the conservation and  sustainable management  of natural resources, the protection of local heritage, and a renaissance of indigenous cultures, cultural arts and crafts. 

The importance of tourism can also be demonstrated through the strengthening of communities.

Events and festivals of which local residents have been the primary participants and spectators are often rejuvenated and developed in response to tourist interest.

The jobs created by tourism can also be a great boost for the local community. Aside from the  economic impacts  created by enhanced employment prospects, people with jobs are happier and more social than those without a disposable income. 

Local people can also increase their influence on tourism development, as well as improve their job and earnings prospects, through tourism-related professional training and development of business and organisational skills.

The importance of tourism is shown through the provision of social services in the host community.

The tourism industry requires many facilities/ infrastructure to meet the needs of the tourist. This often means that many developments in an area as a result of tourism will be available for use by the locals also. 

Local people often gained new roads, new sewage systems, new playgrounds, bus services etc as a result of tourism. This can provide a great boost to their quality of life and is a great example of a positive social impact of tourism. 

Tourism can see rise to many commercial business, which can be a positive social impact of tourism. This helps to enhance the community spirit as people tend to have more disposable income as a result. 

These businesses may also promote the local cultures and arts. Museums, shows and galleries are fantastic way to showcase the local customs and traditions of a destination. This can help to promote/ preserve local traditions.

Some destinations will encourage local cultures and arts to be revitalised. This may be in the form of museum exhibitions, in the way that restaurants and shops are decorated and in the entertainment on offer, for example. 

This may help promote traditions that may have become distant. 

Another reason for the importance of tourism is the preservation of heritage. Many tourists will visit the destination especially to see its local heritage. It is for this reason that many destinations will make every effort to preserve its heritage. 

This could include putting restrictions in place or limiting tourist numbers, if necessary. This is often an example of careful  tourism planning  and sustainable tourism management. 

Tourism can, if managed well, empower communities. While it is important to consider the authenticity in tourism and take some things with a pinch of salt, know that tourism can empower communities.

Small villages in far off lands are able to profit from selling their handmade goods. This, in turn, puts food on the table. This leads to healthier families and more productivity and a happier population .

The importance of tourism: Environmental gains

Whilst most media coverage involving tourism and the environment tends to be negative, there are some positives that can come from it: demonstrating the importance of tourism once again.

Some people think that tourism is what kills nature. And while this could so easily be true, it is important to note that the tourism industry is and always has been a big voice when it comes to conservation and the protection of animals and nature. Tourism organisations and travel operators often run (and donate to) fundraisers. 

As well as this, visitors to certain areas can take part in activities that aim to sustain the local scenery. It’s something a bit different, too! You and your family can go on a beach clean up walk in Spain or do something similar in the UAE . There are a lot of ways in which tourism actually helps the environment, rather than hindering it!

Lastly, there is something to be said for the political gains that can be achieved through tourism.

The tourism industry can yield promising opportunities for international collaborations, partnerships and agreements, for example within the EU. This can have positive political impacts on the host country as well as the countries who choose to work with them.

Tourism is a remarkably important industry. As you can see, the tourism industry does not stand alone- it is closely interrelated with many other parts of society. Not only do entire countries often rely on the importance of tourism, but so do individual members of host communities and tourists.

If you are studying travel and tourism and are interested in learning more about the importance of tourism, I recommend you take a look at the following texts:

• An Introduction to Tourism : a comprehensive and authoritative introduction to all facets of tourism including: the history of tourism; factors influencing the tourism industry; tourism in developing countries; sustainable tourism; forecasting future trends.
• The Business of Tourism Management : an introduction to key aspects of tourism, and to the practice of managing a tourism business.
• Tourism Management: An Introduction : gives its reader a strong understanding of the dimensions of tourism, the industries of which it is comprised, the issues that affect its success, and the management of its impact on destination economies, environments and communities.

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Cultural Tourism: 9 Easy Ways to Experience Local Culture While Traveling

T raveling is a journey of self-discovery, and experiencing local culture is an essential part of that adventure. By immersing yourself in the traditions, flavors, and stories of the places you visit, you not only gain a richer travel experience but also contribute to the preservation of cultural diversity. Embrace the world through cultural tourism and watch your travel experiences transform into cherished memories of a lifetime.

Table of Contents

What is cultural tourism, the importance of cultural tourism and cultural experiences, 10 examples of cultural tourism, cultural immersion: 9 easy ways to experience culture while traveling, 5 reasons to engage in cultural experiences when traveling, responsible tourism, 3 tips for making the most of your cultural tourism experiences.

The easiest definition of cultural tourism is very simple but broad. Let me explain. The World Tourism Organization defines cultural tourism as an activity in which the traveler’s “motivation is to learn, discover, experience and consume the tangible and intangible cultural attractions/products in a tourism destination.” Pretty simple, right? However, cultural tourism becomes somewhat of an umbrella term when you consider all the ways in which you can experience the culture of a new city, state, or country. These can include admiring art, attending festivals, visiting historical monuments and a variety of other ways you can immerse yourself in local traditions. Let’s not forget the local cuisine!

Essentially, cultural tourism is the act of creating an authentic experience with a place and its people.

Cultural tourism is beneficial for both the traveler and the destination, providing both economic and social advantages. In fact, it is one more step we can take toward sustainable travel. By choosing cultural tourism, we can help create a positive local economic impact, bridge social gaps, and assist in the preservation of history and the culture which we are exploring. Our reward is a rich and memorable experience gained through learning and connection.

Cultural Tourism Examples

Cultural tourism involves traveling to destinations primarily to explore and engage with the local culture, traditions, history, and heritage. It offers travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the authentic cultural experiences of a particular region. Here are some cultural tourism examples:

• Museum Visits: Museums are excellent repositories of a destination’s cultural heritage. Travelers can explore art, history, science, and various aspects of culture through exhibitions and artifacts. Examples include the Louvre Museum in Paris, the British Museum in London, and the Vatican Museums in Rome.
• Cultural Festivals: Attending cultural festivals and celebrations can provide an in-depth understanding of a community’s traditions and way of life. Some famous examples include the Rio Carnival in Brazil, Diwali in India, and the Oktoberfest in Germany.
• Historical Sites: Visiting historical sites and landmarks allows travelers to delve into the past and gain insights into a destination’s history. Examples include the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu in Peru, and the Pyramids of Egypt.
• Culinary Tourism: Sampling local cuisine is a delicious way to experience culture. Travelers can take food tours, dine at local restaurants, and even participate in cooking classes. Examples include sushi-making classes in Japan, wine tasting in Italy’s Tuscany region, and street food tours in Thailand.
• Cultural Workshops: Participating in workshops can provide hands-on experiences related to a destination’s culture. This might include traditional dance classes, pottery making, or learning to weave textiles. For instance, travelers can learn flamenco dancing in Spain or take a sushi-making class in Japan.
• Cultural Performances: Watching live performances, such as traditional dance, theater, or music, can be a captivating way to experience a culture. Examples include attending a Noh theater performance in Japan, a tango show in Argentina, or a traditional Irish dance performance in Ireland.
• Religious Tourism: Visiting religious sites and participating in religious ceremonies can offer insights into a destination’s spirituality and faith. Examples include visiting the Vatican City in Rome , the Golden Temple in India, or the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
• Art Galleries and Studios: Exploring local art galleries and studios can provide a glimpse into a region’s contemporary artistic expression. Travelers can meet local artists and view their work. Examples include the Tate Modern in London, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and galleries in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City.
• Cultural Villages: Some destinations have cultural villages or living history museums where travelers can experience a recreated version of traditional life. Examples include Williamsburg in Virginia (USA), the Maori cultural villages in New Zealand, and the Skansen open-air museum in Sweden.
• Language Immersion: Learning and practicing the local language can be an enriching cultural experience. Even a few basic phrases can go a long way in bridging cultural gaps. Locals often appreciate the effort, and it can lead to more meaningful interactions. If you’re heading to Italy, read this article that will help you learn a few basic Italian phrases .

How to Experience Local Culture While You Travel

Traveling is more than just ticking off destinations from your bucket list; it’s an opportunity to broaden your horizons, learn about different ways of life, and create lasting memories. While visiting the iconic tourist spots can be exciting, immersing yourself in the local culture is where the true magic happens. Here are a few ways you can engage in cultural tourism as you travel:

• Meet the Locals : Engaging with the people who call your destination home is the most direct way to experience local culture. Strike up conversations at local markets, cafés, or community events. Ask about their daily lives, traditions, and favorite spots in the area. You’ll be amazed at how much you can learn and how friendly people can be when you show genuine interest in their culture.
• Explore Off-The-Beaten-Path: While famous landmarks have their allure, exploring lesser-known areas often leads to unexpected cultural discoveries. Wander through neighborhoods, visit local museums, or explore rural villages. These off-the-beaten-path experiences can be profoundly enriching.
• Attend Local Events : Keep an eye out for festivals, cultural performances, and community gatherings. These events offer a chance to witness traditions in action and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
• Try Local Cuisine : Food is a universal language. Trying local dishes is not only a gastronomic adventure but also a cultural one. Visit local eateries, street vendors, and markets to savor authentic flavors. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations; locals are usually delighted to share their favorite food spots.
• Stay with Locals : Consider staying in locally owned accommodations, such as guesthouses or homestays. This provides an opportunity for deeper cultural immersion and fosters direct connections with the community.

Why You Should Try to Experience Local Culture When Traveling

Traveling is more than just ticking off destinations from your bucket list; it’s an opportunity to broaden your horizons, learn about different ways of life, and create lasting memories. While visiting the iconic tourist spots can be exciting, immersing yourself in the local culture is where the true magic happens.

Authenticity Over Stereotypes: Local culture is the heartbeat of any destination. By diving into it, you move beyond stereotypes and gain a deeper understanding of the people, their traditions, and their values. It’s a chance to challenge preconceptions and enrich your perspective.

Memorable Experiences: While taking selfies in front of famous landmarks is fun, it’s the interactions with locals and unique cultural experiences that you’ll remember most. These memories are the ones that stay with you, often for a lifetime.

Cultural Exchange: Engaging with local culture isn’t just about what you receive; it’s also about what you give. Sharing your own culture and stories can create meaningful connections and bridge gaps, fostering a sense of global unity.

Support Local Communities: Many tourist destinations rely heavily on tourism for their livelihoods. By engaging with local culture, you contribute to the local economy, helping to sustain the traditions and lifestyles of the people you encounter.

I can’t talk to you about cultural tourism without addressing responsible tourism. It’s a wonderful thing and a deep privilege to visit historical and sacred sites and monuments. Sadly, all too often these sites are not treated responsibly. Monuments, cathedrals, and artwork are priceless in the context of history and heritage. They are also incredibly difficult and expensive to preserve.

Please don’t be that person eating your lunch on the steps and leaving trash behind. No, it isn’t ok to use your camera flash to capture that great piece of art (unless they say you can). For the love of all that is good, if taking a selfie compromises your safety, the safety of others or, most importantly, the monument itself, DO NOT DO IT.  Respect is simple. Practice it!

• Respect Local Customs : Always be mindful of local customs and traditions. Dress appropriately, observe local etiquette, and ask for permission when taking photos in sensitive areas.
• Read and Research : Before your trip, read about the history, customs, and culture of the destination. This background knowledge will enhance your understanding and appreciation of what you encounter.
• Travel Slowly : Rushing from one tourist attraction to another can leave little room for a cultural experience. Slow down, take leisurely strolls, and allow yourself to get lost in the streets. You’ll often stumble upon unexpected cultural gems. Here’s where you can learn more about slow travel .

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