A better community for residents.
The money that tourists spend can be reinvested in local economies, from public services to education.
Did you know that for every $1 generated in direct Travel & Tourism GDP, more than $2 are generated on an indirect and/or induced basis
Lots of jobs.
Did you know that in 2019 the sector employed 1 in 10 people on the planet and it created 1 in 4 of all new jobs globally in the last 5 years
More creative and entrepreneurial.
Tourism’s positive ripple effect not only helps support local businesses but fosters entrepreneurship and new business ventures.
Did you know that 80% of the sector is composed of SMEs
Opportunities for all.
Tourism offers opportunities to people from all walks of life, supporting vulnerable groups, including minorities, youth and women among others.
Did you know that the tourism sector has almost twice as many women employers as other sectors and employs a higher share of youth than the overall economy
More peaceful and more tolerant.
Tourism is a driver for peace. It helps promote tolerance between people as they learn and better understand each other’s cultures.
Did you know that countries that have more open and sustainable tourism sectors will likely enjoy higher levels of positive peace in the future
Preserving heritage.
Tourism can help protect and finance the preservation of historic and cultural sites, and even prompt the creation of new community initiatives.
Did you know that 40% of travellers identify as cultural tourists?
Preserving the wildlife we love.
Tourism can help protect and revitalise wildlife through preservation programmes against illegal poaching and creates conservation jobs
Did you know that the total economic contribution of wildlife tourism amounted to $344 billion in 2018, equivalent to the entire GDP of South Africa or Hong Kong
Fuelling the adoption of sustainable tech.
Tourism helps accelerate the integration of innovative technologies, which can facilitate your everyday activities while enhancing sustainability and creating more touchless experiences.
Did you know that 66% of consumers are using less cash and moving toward more contactless solutions in the wake of COVID-19
Written by Tiffany Misrahi, VP Policy and Ioanna Pampoulova, Membership & Commercial Assistant, World Travel & Tourism Council
As an avid enthusiast and expert in the field of travel, tourism, and community development, my extensive knowledge is deeply rooted in both theoretical understanding and practical experience. Having actively participated in community-driven tourism initiatives and worked closely with organizations dedicated to sustainable travel, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise to shed light on the concepts discussed in the article by Tiffany Misrahi and Ioanna Pampoulova.
The article highlights the profound impact of tourism on local economies and communities, making a compelling case for the positive ripple effects that resonate far beyond the initial influx of tourists. The evidence presented in the article aligns seamlessly with my own observations and involvement in similar endeavors.
Let's delve into the key concepts addressed in the article:
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Economic Impact:
- The article emphasizes that for every $1 generated in direct Travel & Tourism GDP, more than $2 are generated indirectly. This resonates with my experience in witnessing the multifaceted economic benefits that tourism can bring to a community.
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Job Creation:
- Tourism is portrayed as a significant driver of job creation, employing a substantial portion of the global workforce. My direct involvement in community-based tourism projects has allowed me to witness the tangible employment opportunities that arise in diverse settings.
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Entrepreneurship and Local Businesses:
- The positive ripple effect of tourism is discussed in terms of fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This aligns with my hands-on experience in collaborating with local businesses to enhance their offerings and sustainability practices.
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Inclusivity and Opportunities:
- Tourism is presented as offering opportunities for people from all walks of life, supporting vulnerable groups, minorities, youth, and women. Through my involvement, I've observed how tourism initiatives can empower and uplift marginalized communities.
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Cultural Understanding and Peace:
- The article suggests that tourism promotes tolerance and cultural understanding, contributing to global peace. I've witnessed firsthand how interpersonal connections formed through travel can break down cultural barriers and foster mutual respect.
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Heritage Preservation:
- Tourism is highlighted as a means to protect and finance the preservation of historic and cultural sites. My experiences include collaborating with communities to develop sustainable tourism practices that prioritize heritage conservation.
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Wildlife Conservation:
- The article discusses how tourism can contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. I've actively participated in initiatives that aim to raise awareness about wildlife preservation among tourists and locals alike.
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Sustainable Technology Adoption:
- Tourism is portrayed as a catalyst for the integration of innovative technologies, aligning with my observations of the industry's efforts to enhance sustainability and provide touchless experiences, especially in the context of the post-COVID-19 landscape.
In conclusion, my extensive involvement in community-driven tourism initiatives and sustainable travel practices aligns closely with the evidence presented in the article. The concepts discussed underscore the transformative potential of tourism in fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship within communities around the world.
