Tourism as an instrument for peace.

Late June, Kike and I attended the AdventureNext Conference in Bogota, Colombia. It was a special event, and we are amazed by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) community and their commitment to having a positive impact through adventure tourism. 

During the conference, we talked about some important topics that make sustainable tourism such a valuable and important movement. 

The theme of the conference was “tourism as an instrument for peace”. As I reflected upon this concept, it made so much sense. Conflict and misunderstandings frequently emerge when we form assumptions about one another, drawing from our prejudices and limited knowledge shaped by media and societal representations. On the other hand, when you travel, it’s a way for you to experience for yourself what a community, culture, or environment is really like. More often than not, you will experience that despite our differences and at our core, we are all the same. It serves as a means to unite individuals, foster peace, and create more communication and problem-solving within communities. 

Another theme was using community-based tourism as a way to improve people’s quality of life. First off, travel agencies aim to place communities at the forefront of their experiences so that they can benefit economically, socially, and environmentally. By attracting tourists to their communities, they can generate employment opportunities and bolster the financial resources available to local businesses and amenities. Consequently, these funds can be reinvested in critical infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and health facilities, resulting in direct and indirect advantages for the individuals. Additionally, interactions with communities often involve imparting new skills, encompassing language acquisition, leveraging technology for their benefit, or acquiring knowledge on operating small businesses. Women are empowered through the promotion of their local cuisine and handicrafts, as well as by encouraging their active participation in leadership roles. Environmental conservation projects are often implemented, such as reforestation, establishment of waste management systems, creation of community gardens, and environmental education for the youth. 

The benefits of community-based tourism are huge, making it so that it’s a win-win situation for the communities, travel companies, and tourists. It offers a means for communities to honor and preserve their cultural and natural heritage while cultivating sustainability in their community management practices. It’s an opportunity for travelers to discover new environments, go on adventures, taste new foods, and exchange knowledge with foreign cultures. Finally, one of the biggest takeaways is that we are not as different as we seem, and we all deserve justice, peace, and autonomy in our communities.