Do the benefits of tourism outweigh the costs ? Iris

Each year, hundreds of millions of people travel around the world for leisure, business, and other various reasons. With rapid development of the tourism, this industry have brought large profits to the local community, not only in terms of the economic field but also in terms of the social environment. However, nowadays, there is an increased voice with respect to the cost from the development of tourism. It is believed that the development of tourism will destroy local nature environment, produce pollution and especially cause culture conflicts. Do the benefits of tourism out outweigh the cost?

First of all, according to the reports in 2008 international tourism generated US$ 946 billion, (€643 billion) in export earnings. (Jafari, 2006, p-237). Typically, travelers bring with them money which they inject into the local economic for the place was excellent of business. They could find the commercial opportunities in the landscapes, and supply the jobs for inhabitant, improve people’s life. This will stimulate the local economic, drive the industries development such as entertainment, food, and souvenirs. For example, due to the demand of travelers, many vocation villages were established in the countryside. Undeniably, this industry chain was an effective way to boost a region’s economic growth and produce mass profits. Furthermore, thanks to the profits of tourism, the local governments have enough fund to renovate the historical architecture for better preservation, and the value of old buildings will be utilized in maximization. More and more people could benefit from more knowledge of the history. Some natural spots such as national parks will also get adequate financial support to run on (Matthew, 2000).

In addition, tourism is an important vehicle for cultural exchange. People travel to different places, view a diversity of scenes that widen their horizon. They also bring fresh style to the local communities. They enjoy the local sight, food, also share with the local inhabitant about what life looks like in another part of the world. These visitors act like “ambassadors” on behalf of their countries and promote their countries. They play as a bridge to link up people from different places. For instance, when Chinese go aboard for sightseeing, they introduce Chinese food, culture and tea to foreigners, which attracts foreigners to visit China and promote Chinese culture and customs. This “win-win” mode obviously brings economic benefits as well.

However, tourism may also lead to conflicts between visitors and local resident such as culture shock. As well, the negative impact on environment and local culture can not be ignored. For example, innumerable people swarm into the same tourist destination and cause noise, congestion, and pollution. All of these break the peace of the local community, and the local inhabitants may prefer a peaceful life. Due to the different languages, Communication due to the difference in the language and culture barriers will result in some inevitable controversy, and even worse, inhabitants will feel uncomfortable by some undesirable behaviors such as speaking loudly and throwing paper everywhere.

In conclusion, the benefits of tourism are obvious. However, we should also pay more attention to its negative aspects. The government should find the right balance between the economic growth and local culture in developing tourism. I believe that there would be a right way to coordinate the conflicts so that the tourism industry will be more flourishing.



References:

Jafari, J. (2006). Creatio of the intergovernmental world tourism organization. Annals of Tourism Research, 2, (5), 237


Matthew, J. (2001). Pricing Policy for Tourism in Protected Areas: Lessons from Komodo National Park, Indonesia, Conservation Biology, Vol. 15, No. 1 (Feb., 2001), pp. 218-227


Dwyer, L. and Forsyth, P. (1993). Assessing the benefits and costs of inbound tourism, Annals of tourism research,vol.20,pp 751-768,

http://www.jstor.org/stable/2641660?seq=2