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Trips A Crash Course On Community-Based Tourism & Its Importance Right Now
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A Crash Course On Community-Based Tourism & Its Importance Right Now

With sustainability being the need of the hour, community-based tourism is gradually, yet consistently, picking pace.

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By: Presha Mahajan Published: Jul 01, 2021 07:00 AM IST

A Crash Course On Community-Based Tourism & Its Importance Right Now
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With sustainability being the need of the hour, the tourism industry is gradually, yet consistently, moving forward to embrace responsible and mindful ways of travelling, which minimises environmental harm to a great extent. By Presha Mahajan

The emergence of community-based tourism or CBT is one exemplary example of that effort. This participatory approach to travel entails a unique experience for sustainable travellers who are invited by local communities to stay with them in their homes and gain a holistic insight into their culture, diversity, customs and traditions. In doing so, travellers experience the authentic lifestyles of the communities that are often economically marginalised, and reside in rural areas. These practices sustain, respect and celebrate the culture, nature and norms of such backward groups, while also contributing to their development.

Community-based tourism, as you might have guessed, comes with a rather extensive list of benefits. With a more traditional and grounded approach towards tourism, it takes people back to their roots and gets them in touch with the true essence of travelling and exploring.

First, CBT works as a two-way street. While travellers connect with the locals, visit farms, take tours of the village and soak in the culture and diversity of the place; locals earn their livelihood as hosts, art and handicraft sellers, tour guides, service providers, managers and entrepreneurs. It has opened up a vast ocean of opportunities for women and other vulnerable minorities whose skills are usually overlooked. The integration of tourism within these communities has ensured financial independence and diversification of income for them, as they also become increasingly aware of the benefits they can receive.

 

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Community-based tourism thus empowers small indigenous groups who work towards developing their communities by building schools, hospitals, and bringing about other imperative changes in their environment. The money generated through tourism gives them freedom from exploitation, and autonomy to promote their culture and make decisions that are right for them.

Second, this type of eco-tourism keeps the harmful consequences of mass tourism at bay while simultaneously promoting sustainable travel that provides environment-friendly experiences. Additionally, by providing economic opportunities, it prevents locals from means like logging and poaching to make money. Most importantly, the carbon footprint that ensues from CBT is significantly lesser than that of traditional mass tourism.

Speaking of genuine, authentic experiences—staying amidst a community and experiencing the nuances of their culture allows people of different backgrounds to engage with one another, share stories, broaden their horizons and do away with stereotypes. Community-based tourism is meant for those who like to immerse themselves in new cultures and indulge in enriching experiences, instead of ticking off crowded landmarks from their check-lists.

Before you venture out to a new land, here’s a few things to keep in mind–travel with a well-informed guide that can speak the same language as the community you’re visiting and one who has holistic knowledge about its people and places; read up on it yourself as well, and take a genuine interest in their way of life. Always remember that you’re a guest at an unfamiliar place. Be sensitive to their culture; and respect everything—right down to their food, attires, homes, and be mindful of their traditions, customs and norms. Do your best to follow them. Avoid clicking photographs, especially without consent; and put away your camera, if asked to do so. Support local businesses and ensure that the locals benefit from your visit. More often than not, tourists intrude on communities without much consideration. Make sure to only visit places you’re welcomed at.

Finally, with this niche tourism trend gaining popularity, the social and commercial value placed on these communities encourage the utilisation and conservation of local resources. It provides an opportunity for social and economic growth in these remote areas. However, indigenous communities must not be taken advantage of. Already unguarded against outside influences, they must be empowered to make their own informed decisions and their boundaries should be adhered to.

Editor’s Note: Keeping the current situation of the pandemic in mind, T+L India recommends every reader to stay safe, and take all government-regulated precautions in case travel at this time is absolutely necessary. Please follow our stories on COVID-19 for all the latest travel guidelines.

Related: The Responsible Tourism Society of India Decodes Post-COVID-19 Travel Trends

Written By

Presha Mahajan

Presha Mahajan

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