Ethnotourism is a neologism encompassing both ethnic and tourism. It has been recently introduced to various African and Amerindian minority groups in South and Central America, especially in countries such as Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, and Honduras. Ethnotourism differs from ecotourism basically in agency direction. While ecotourism promotes "responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and improves the well-being of local people" (International Ecotourism Society), ethnotourism, in addition to look for the well-being of the communities, aims to foster local agencies able to create their own touristic programs and facilities, without the intervention of external parts.
A good example of how ethnotourism works in an Afro-Latina American community is Palenque de San Basilio in Colombia. Considered as Intangible Patrimony of the World because of its unique culture and language, Palenque de San Basilio, located in the Montes de Maria, one hour from Cartagena de Indias, offers to the visitor numerous activities including guided tours, lively spectacles of Afro-Colombian dances and music, conversations with local prominent figures, such as boxers, singers, musicians, leaders and scholars. One agency in Palenque has adopted the term ethnotourism to define their own promotion of cultural activities. The team, led by Manuel Perez (Mané) has organized a dance and music troupes, guided tours, and observation of Palenquero language classes, the local Creole language currently in a process of revitalization at the local schools.
Ethnotourism might become a sustainable source of income for hundreds of native and marginalized communities in developing countries that struggle against loosing not only their jobs, but also traditions and languages devoured by globalization, which they cannot escape.
Ethnotourism my focus not only on protecting the environment, but also benefiting native people, in a trend named as community-based ethnotourism. In ethnotourism, rather than being passively observed by tourists only as exotic peoples, natives become active participants, promoters of their own culture, and main recipients of the economical benefit that tourism raise.
What is necessary to promote ethnotourism in Marginalized communities?
1. Each country should include in its Tourism Office agenda the promotion of ethnotourism at communities distinguished by its original cultural and ethnic values.
2. Local people should have the right to receive education and training on administration through workshops and courses that help to promote their culture and community values.
3. Allocate economic stimulus packages and grants to cultural groups and people interested in the promotion of local culture.
4. Keep continuous tracking of the development of each ethnotouristic group in order to evaluate its performance and correct misleading of resources.
More information on
ethnotourism, visit:
http://blog.sustainabletravel.com/ecotourism_expands_into_ethnot.htmlhttp://bigtravelweb.com/travel/2008/04/21/community-ecotourism-project-development-guidelines/
Pictutre by: Crispin Robinson
