Although international tourism may have detrimental effects on tourist destinations, I believe that they can be mitigated, and are outweighed by several other benefits such as better local economy and increased cultural popularity.
Admittedly, international tourism puts a strain on the environment of tourist destinations. The influx of tourists is synonymous with significant waste, including food and other non-biodegradable waste. Hotels, resorts and other accommodations also need to run at greater capacity, resulting in an increased production of domestic wastewater, which can adversely affect water supplies. The Seine River in Paris, for example, has been heavily contaminated due to the millions of visitors the city attracts each year. However, these issues can be alleviated if the government imposes regulations on the proper disposal of waste and the appropriate use of resources for tourists. Strict punishments should also be applied to rule violators.
It is my firm belief that the merits of international tourism are more prominent. The increasing number of foreign visitors constitutes a substantial source of income for the local residents. Due to the difference in exchange rates, international visitors who vacation in locations that use smaller denomination currencies tend to be more willing to spend their money, which generates more revenue. Thanks to this amount of money, the local government can enhance the people’s quality of life by investing in the upgradation of infrastructure of the destination and the region as a whole. Furthermore, international tourism, whose nationalities and locations vary widely, contributes to the greater global recognition of a destination’s culture. When visiting a place, tourists often share their experiences with friends and family, highlighting new and fascinating things they encounter and learn. In doing so, they take the role of informal cultural ambassadors, encouraging others to explore the location they have visited in order to have similar unique experiences.
In conclusion, it is true that the rising number of international visitors coming to an area may cause some environmental issues, but this can be alleviated if the local government can enforce strict regulations. It is my conviction that international tourism offers more benefits as it provides a great source of income for the locals and helps spread the cultural identity of the destination on a global scale.