A lot of people from lower economic status live in tourism-centered nations. However, the income from tourists often went to the government or tourism site managers instead while less wealthy people struggle to make a living out of this source. This essay will discuss a way out of this problem as well as providing a solution to indigenous culture and belief degradation caused by tourism.
In order to improve the welfare of less wealthy residents, currencies paid from tourists should be sent straight to the locals instead of a third party, because if the payment is done through third parties there will be more people involved and the benefit has to be divided among them. By paying directly to local people who provide the services, souvenirs, or place to make the travel experience memorable, tourists are able to help them improve their economic condition. For example, benefits from Kuta Beach in Bali often went to the government through tax as well as the beach manager, while the incomes from visitors of Jogan Beach in Yogyakarta directly benefits the locals because the place is hidden and not under supervision of third parties. Locals who provide services in Kuta Beach may not be richer than locals at Jogan Beach since Kuta Beach is more popular. However, if we consider the ratio of tourism spending and local income, it is obvious that the locals at the Jogan Beach gain more profit.
Other than the problem discussed previously, the abrasion of local cultures is also a considered problem in countries with many tourists. Tourists often show less tolerance to local traditions because such habits are different from their own culture. In order to solve this problem, both the tourists and the locals should build mutual respect. Tourists should research on the place they want to visit to reduce culture shocks, meanwhile locals should introduce their cultures to the tourists clearly and patiently. For example, tourists in Bali often already have a good knowledge about local rites and beliefs due to a plethora of information provided in the internet. On another hand, the locals there are open to foreigners and teach tourists about their local culture, even engaging them to participate in it. This provides a great experience for the travelers and also sustaining the existence of local traditions.
In conclusion, travel activities should benefit the locals and sustaining local traditions as well. In order to do so, both tourists and locals should build an open and direct communication with each other.