The Growth of Tourism

Questions for Investigation In what ways has the global pattern of tourism changed? What is the relationship between the growth of tourism and economic development? What are the social, economic and environmental issues associated with the growth of tourism? How can tourism be managed to ensure sustainability?

What is tourism? Travel away from the home environment for leisure, recreation, holidays, visit friends/relations or for professional/business reasons.

Opportunities and problems? What are the social, economic and environmental issues associated with the growth of tourism? Opportunities and problems?

Social and Cultural Impact… How have traditional cultures in the developing world suffered due to tourism development? Loss of locally owned land – foreign tourist companies buy up scenic and accessible locations. Abandonment of traditional values. Displacement of people to make way for tourist development. Changing community structure. Abuse of human rights to maximise profits. Alcoholism and drug abuse. Crime and prostitution. Visitor congestion. Denying locals access to beaches. Loss of housing sue to second homes.

Are the locals always happy about tourist developments?

The community In a Goa Hotel – One 5-star hotel used as much water as 5 local villages and the average resident used 28 times more electricity per day than a local. The community structure was often weakened by the outside influence such as tourism. Age and sex structures change as young people move to tourist centres for work. Often family structures change – traditional living is removed as material wealth becomes more important.

How do you solve these problems?

What are the positive attributes of tourism on society and culture?

Positive Attributes Increased range of social facilities. Greater understanding between cultures. Families ties strengthen as can visit other regions/countries. Visiting ancient sites gives a greater appreciation of the historical legacy of host countries. Develop foreign language skills. Multitude of cultures congregating together for a major international event such as the Olympic Games can have a positive effect.

Economic Impact… The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) argues that to consider tourism receipts alone, greatly underestimates the economic importance of the industry. They have developed the Travel and Tourism Satellite Accounting which include direct and indirect economic implications of tourism.

Satellite Accounting ‘Iceberg’.

Global tourism was estimated to have generated $7060 billion of economic activity worldwide in 2007.

How great are the economic benefits for developing countries? Critics argue the value of tourism to developing countries economies if often overrated because: Economic Leakages – money tourists spends in the country does not benefit the country as the companies are foreign owned. Between 60-75% goes back to developed country. Jobs created are menial, low paid and seasonal – overseas labour may be brought in for senior rolls. Increase in national debt from money borrowed to develop tourist industry. Tourists spend money in hotels not in the local community. Locations become over-dependent on tourism. International trade agreements such as the General Agreement on Trade in Service (GATS) allow global hotel giants to set up in most countries, even if governments favour local investors.

Economic benefits of tourism: Benefits other sectors of the economy – providing more jobs (Multiplier effect). Provides governments with considerable tax revenues. By providing employment in rural areas it can help to reduce rural-urban migration. Can act as a growth pole, stimulating the economy of the larger region. Openings for small businesses. Supports many jobs in the informal sector.