It is widely believed that tourism is likely to provide more advantages for the tourist destination, while the opposite opinion reveals that it can cause many drawbacks. This essay will show both arguments about the merits and demerits of the tourism sector for the host country as well as my consideration of this issue.
The massive development of the tourism sector has been increasing the number of people traveling worldwide. Tourism activities have many positive impacts on their sightseeing areas. First of all, international tourism can improve the economic condition of the host country. When visiting a country, travelers need to spend money on transportation, accommodation, and other things. That will be beneficial to increase countries Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Apart from that, the tourism sector can be an opportunity for cultural exchange. As we can see, tourism can encourage people in tourist areas to learn about new cultures including learning new languages. Consequently, they are easy to adapt in the globalization era. For example, the local community in destination places who learn a new foreign tongue such as English can compete with others when finding a job or applying for a scholarship, because they have a proficiency in English.
Nevertheless, excessive tourism is also creating disadvantages for destination areas. The activities done by tourists have created various environmental damage. One example, tourism activities will undoubtedly increase waste production. The growing number of waste will damage the natural resources and biodiversity in the host country. Not only the loss of biodiversity but it must also be pointed out that it can damage the locals. For instance, they may have health problems due to the increasing number of waste available in their area.
Despite the environmental demerits of the tourism sector, I firmly believe that tourism will have many benefits for the host country including economic development and social improvement. In addition to that, tourism can also empower locals, especially young people. One example is when young people are involved in tourism activities in their place, they will have the opportunity to learn something new, such as management skills, hospitality, project management, and other related skills.
In conclusion, international tourism is beneficial considering the economic and cultural exchange impact. Whereas, it is more likely to harm the environment. I am of the idea that this sector creates many benefits. I also added that empowering youth is a significant point that worth to be highlighting as a positive effect of tourism in tourism destinations.