In a world increasingly defined by globalisation, international travel is becoming more and more affordable, with countries welcoming more tourists to their shores than ever before. While this trend may bring about issues such as cultural tension and gentrification, its advantages are far greater, including economic growth, cultural exchange, and international understanding.
Beneath the surface of tourism lies a simple economic reality: tourists represent robust flows of foreign capital, which may prove crucial for the local economies. In Vietnam, tourism has transformed Phu Quoc Island from a backwater area into a bustling town, capable of welcoming hundreds of thousands of travellers while providing thousands of jobs for the locals.
The logic of tourism also extends far beyond the realm of economies. When tourists explore local areas, they often have the opportunity to learn about the ways of life of the people residing there, broadening their cultural horizons and fostering cultural tolerance. Over the last few decades, tourists coming to Vietnam from Ukraine have actively sought not only to enjoy the natural landscapes but also to learn about the culture of this country. Some have decided to permanently settle here and work to promote the relationships among the people of the two nations. In this sense, tourism can be seen as one of the catalysts for peace and stability.
Admittedly, tourism can be a source of cultural tension. In Thailand, widespread indignation and resentment among the locals toward tourists was once fuelled because some tourists refused to take off their shoes before entering a temple. More insidiously, sometimes, rich visitors may decide to reside and invest in the local property market of a country, inflating house prices. This can lead to social polarisation, as the locals cannot afford houses, which in some countries are regarded as the bedrock of middle-class stability. Nevertheless, these issues can be tackled with the right measures, including educating tourists before they enter the host countries and limiting foreign ownership of local properties.
In conclusion, while tourism undoubtedly carries its issues, they can be addressed with the right measures. Ultimately, tourism is often perceived as some wealthy tourists travelling to see the world, but it should be understood as a boost of the economy, a gateway to cultural understanding, and a catalyst for solidarity.