CULTURAL
TOURISM
Cultural
tourism is concerned with a country’s or region’s culture, especially its arts.
It generally focuses on traditional communities who have diverse customs, art
and distinct social practices which distinguish them from other cultures.
Culture has always been a major object of travel since the European Grand Tours
of the 16th century when aristocrats and nobility travelled Europe
to educate themselves. Due to globalization and technology, traditional
cultures are declining as the youth takes on to modern ways. Those countries
that preserve their culture have a great opportunity for tourism. Tourism to
traditional centres can present advantages and disadvantages. On the positive
side, unique cultural practices and arts attract the curiosity of tourists and
provide the opportunity for economic development. On the negative side tourists
may leave footprints of their culture that youth may emulate, while the
community in general feels violated. Cultural tourism includes tourism in urban
areas, particularly historic or large cities and their cultural facilities such
as museums and theatres. It can also include tourism in rural areas showcasing
the traditions of indigenous cultural communities (i.e. festivals, rituals,
etc) and their values and lifestyle. It is generally agreed that cultural
tourists spend more than standard tourists. Cultural tourism is the fastest
growing segment of the tourism industry because of globalization and a better
informed public who are exposed to universal cultures through the Internet.
Flesch Kincaid
Grade level: 13.80
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