The debate surrounding whether the advantages of international tourism outweigh the disadvantages is complex. Since I live in Saudi Arabia, which is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination for many international travellers, I have experienced both the pros and cons first-hand, so I can confidently say that the benefits outnumber the cons greatly.
Countries that experience affluent international tourism tend to have thriving economies, which can improve the overall standard of living for its population. The lack of tourism in a country that is heavily dependant on it can cause a decline in citizens’ salaries, which diminishes patriotism; causing revolts and disorder. Furthermore, local restaurants, shops, and famous tourist destinations gain more customers by the presence of foreigners, increasing their profits by miles. Additionally, the country develops at a fast-pace, causing the activities one can do to increase significantly to accommodate for the presence of tourists, which increases the amount of fun things to do for locals and tourists alike.
However, excessive tourism can also lead to crowded streets and overwhelming traffic, causing the local inhabitants discomfort and annoyance. In some extreme cases, locals have gone as far as to try to harm tourists by assaulting them, some even starting online campaigns against tourism in their country, unaware that the travellers’ absence harms their country’s economy.
In conclusion, while international tourism has its cons, such as making locals suffer occasionally, its pros definitely precede them. The advantages tourism has on the countries’ citizens are endless, and having witnessed them myself, I think they are worth the disadvantages.