The arguments against mass tourism

In this text the author suggests his arguments against the so-called ‘the third-world tourism’.

Travelling promises some of our happiest times - those two weeks in paradise, but the real effects of tourism are so destructive that it can be easily put on trial.

Firstly, mass tourism is associated with rising crime, begging and other social problems.

Secondly, it is considered to be a force for environmental destruction. In this respect powerful international companies are charged with robbing local people of water and other natural resources, of forcing them from their homes, their lands and means of survival.

Thirdly, tourists to the developing countries disrespect their hosts by failing to observe dress codes and other cultural norms. Moreover, some people think that tourism works to promote dominant Western values at the expense of proud and ancient cultures.

What goes next is the fact that the trade is fixed by multinational companies from the richest countries that cream off the lion’s share of profits, leaving little for local people, bar mental jobs. So, if the charges were brought before a real court the case might well split the jury.

The ‘third-world tourism’ is perhaps the most eloquent metaphor for the unjust world in which we live. Fuelled by the growing gaps in income and ever cheaper travel, tourism has become something the world’s rich do to the world's poor. In the words of one Namibian school pupil, ‘When I grow up, I want to be a tourist’.

(http://www.testandlesson.com)

Notes

1. fuelv- to promote to grow quickly.

2. dress code- a standard of which you should wear for a

particular situation.

3. barv – to shut or keep out.

4. to split the jury – to divide the jury (a body of persons who give their verdict according to the evidence presented ) into those who are for and those who are against someone being accused.

5. forcev – to achieve by strength in struggle or violence.

Answer the following questions.

1. The author uses the idea of a trial as a way of organizing arguments against tourism.Find all the legal expressions used in the text. Do you find the metaphor of a trial convincing? Why or why not?

2. According to the author,

a) what are the main charges made against international tourism?

b) in what two ways does tourism harm local culture?

3. Summarize the ways in which the writer feels that tourism can be seen as a force for good?

4. What are your own arguments for and against tourism?

DEFENDING OR REJECTING CLAIMS

From the following list of claims select the ones you find most controversial. Then try to defend or reject each claim.

1. To travel is to go through a gradual state of nerve wrecking.

2. Mass tourism is a force for environmental destruction.

3. The future lies with air transport. It's the quickest and most reliable way of travelling.

4. A good traveller does not depend on weather.

5. Hitch-hiking is a great activity, educational and entertaining at the same time.

6. The best time for tavelling is summer.

7. Films you see influence where you go on holiday.

8. Going abroad on holiday is very different from staying there for a long time.

9. Most women travel just because they want to show how much expensive clothes they have.

10. Travel in small or large groups is better than individual travel.

DISCUSSION POINTS

1. A lot of young people in the West spend a lot of time travelling. Some of them say, ‘Before I decide which college to attend or take a full-time job I prefer to go on a trip because it can be an adventure or a new beginning leading to new experiences.’

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. Do young people in Russia think in the same way?

2. The saying goes ‘Travel broadens the mind’. Do you agree or disagree with it? Use specific examples to support your answer.

3. Some people prefer to go abroad or to a far-away place in their own country for a holiday. Others choose to spend their holiday in the area where they have lived for a long time or at least for a number of years.