Topic: “Most of the world’s poor live in countries where tourism is a growing industry. The issue is that tourism does not benefit the poorest. How can the income generated by tourism benefit the poor? And how can we assure that tourism does not destroy traditional cultures and ways of life?” Discuss.

In recent years, the effects of tourism have rekindled an ever-growing number of controversies. Although it is true that tourism is one of the most lucrative industries, there remains a considerable concern about its benefits on the life of impoverished people. Additionally, in this vibrant world, with cultural exchange regarded as an indispensable trend, some sociologists are of the opinion that tourism may erode valuable traditions and life_style_s, which poses a severe threat to human’s spiritual backgrounds.

Tourism is rising today as a primary and potential industry in all corners of the globe. However, it is a paradox that most of the world’s poverty can be found in countries with a booming tourism, which reflects a reality that its profit does not serve the sakes of the poor. Thus, in an attempt to tackle the situation, it is advisable to diminish the monopolies of private enterprises on tourism. In many countries today, the developments of this crucial industry is largely dependent on some particular individuals, which leads to an inevitable fact that the income usually flows back to rich people’s pockets. Admittedly, when tourism is under government’s control, a remarkable amount of money will potentially be used to invest in social facilities along with create an abundance of occupation opportunities for the unemployed. It is reasonable to state that only in this way would tourism stand at least a chance of assisting the whole community.

Apart from the issue on people’s lives, tourism is also claimed to be the principal culprit for the disappearance of many cultural values. Therefore, in order to solve this acute problem, it is of fundamental importance to implement a long-term conservative program. There is no doubt that traditional customs, as well as historical sites should under no circumstances be replaced by human’s novel life_style_s. Furthermore,it is advisable for every nation to help foreign citizens accumulate an overview about the role of local traditions throughout the history and enhance their awareness in protecting these values. Today, the cooperation between host countries and tourists is assumed to be the vital element in the effort to conserve human’s precious spiritual possessions.

In summary, tourism appears to result in both advantages and disadvantages. For this reason, the principal factor is undoubtedly claimed to lie in people’s determination to change life for better and preserve conventional values with the help of this promising industry.