Cultural Tourism (Reading Text) and Heritage Tourism (Reading Text)

Make the main ideas of the following Texts, and make WH-Questions and vocabulary Questions. Discuss the answers

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 16^th 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

HERITAGE TOURISM

Heritage tourism is a branch of cultural tourism that showcases the cultural heritage of the past. Heritage attractions play an important role in tourism as people most likely would have been introduced to them in school. The seven ancient wonders of the world have spurred tourists in millions to visit the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China or the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Ancient civilizations like India, Egypt, China or Iraq have a wealth of heritage that stand as witness to great cultures. Countries with rich cultural heritage have used it as an important marketing tool to attract tourists. Heritage tourism involves visiting historical sites like monuments, forts, battlegrounds, etc. with the overall purpose of appreciating the past.

Both Cultural and Heritage tourism are important for various reasons:

(1)   They have a positive economic and social impact;

(2)   They establish and reinforce identity;

(3)   They help preserve the cultural heritage;

(4)   They facilitate harmony and understanding among people; and

(5)   They support culture and help renew tourism.

                                                                  Flesch Kincaid Grade level: 13.87.