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.
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.html
http://bigtravelweb.com/travel/2008/04/21/community-ecotourism-project-development-guidelines/
Do you agree or disagree with this suggestion? Exprss why. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI think ethnoturism is a unique alternative to otherwise regular touristic ventures. Exposure to new cultures is a key motivation of international travelers (dwarved by business-based reasons, of course), but much tourism prevents such exposure by isolating tourists to "uncultured" tourist areas. Ethnotourism would allow new cultures to be authentically experienced--not by businesses more interested in financial profit than an accurate portrayal of the society, but by eager locals.
ReplyDeleteI don't travel alot so I'm not sure I'll be participating in ethnotourism anytime soon, but I definitely think it's a good idea.
My name is Heather Long.
ReplyDeleteI think that ethnoturism is a great, original option to increase tourism in a location while also perserving the culture that the region holds. Ethnotursim would allow tourists to learn all about the community, while experiencing all of the unaltered culture of the place. This would also be great to create jobs. Ethnotourism sounds like a great thing.
I like to travel and I would really like to be able to experience ethnotourism some time.
My name is Nathan Baehl
ReplyDeleteI think that Ethnotourism would be a great experience. I think that different ethnicities play an important role in societies today, and to go through their daily lives would be fascinating. Learning different languages, and traditions of cultures would be the main goal when traveling as a tourist. I wonder how many minority groups there are in other cultures?
My name is Brynn Anderson
ReplyDeleteI agree that ethnotourism is a great idea. I think that many countries today get so caught up in trying to attract tourists and cater to their needs that they end up completely changing the traditions of the city or village. Ethnotourism is an excellent way to keep the unique culture and basic roots of the people alive. In addition, it may help boost the economy and educate the tourists about other cultures.
My name is Emily Follis.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that ethnotourism is a fantastic idea. It helps keep the traditions and culturistic values in place for that country. A country is defined by its culture so it's good that they have ethnotourism to help them keep their background living. It will also help educate those native to that country to learn what the country and its culture is like.
My name is Jacqueline Donovan.
ReplyDeleteI support ethnotourism. It is a great idea that will interest people in learning about different traditions around the globe. Also it will help many cultures who do not have a significant income. It is also a great way for different cultures to become involved in learning about each other.
My name is Kara Gostley.
ReplyDeleteI believe that ethnotourism is a great idea! It allows many cultures to learn about different ideas and religious ways of other cultures around the globe. It will also create jobs in many parts of the world and allow those people to receive an income and be able to support thier families. From learning about other cultures, it not only educates you more on the international level but it also allows you to be a more well rounded individual. I support ethnotourism!
I would love to be an ethnotourist! Any excuse to get people out of their comfort zone and experience life the way others live it makes for better and more well-rounded, tolerant people. Americans suffer from a chronic lack of culture. This is a great idea!
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