In recent years, international tourism has grown in popularity. While this industry comes with certain benefits, there are a number of drawbacks to locals and the environment as a whole. In my view, the advantages of international tourism are vastly overshadowed by its disadvantages.
On the one hand, international tourism can stimulate economic activity. This is because it may create employment in service sectors, such as in hotels, motels, and guesthouses. This in turn might provide regular income for local people, helping them rise out of poverty. Another benefit is that it leads to improved infrastructure, resulting in the construction of some facilities. To attract many tourists, countries may try to improve road infrastructure and build recreational amenities. Take my country – Uzbekistan as an example, where the government are now investing more in building malls, shops, parks and other tourist-oriented facilities in mountainous places. As a result of this development, people can enjoy the enhanced quality of life.
However, the drawbacks of international tourism are profound and long-lasting. First and foremost, it may exacerbate concerns over the affordability of housing. To meet demands of visitors, rentals are turned into short-term lets and owners raise prices. Consequently, residents may not have little choice but to rent such houses. Moreover, this situation can result in frustration and anxiety, causing a backlash against tourism. Drawbacks linked with the environment should also be taken into account. The more tourists visit a country, the more vehicles are used and these vehicles, such as private cars, buses, and trains burn more fossil fuels. This can increase greenhouse gas emissions, taking a toll on the environment.
In conclusion, although international tourism promises certain economic and infrastructure-related benefits, these advantages are overweighed by its disadvantages, including soaring housing prices and environmental degradation.