Community Based TOURISM
Community-based tourism allows travellers an opportunity to spend time in local communities, and learn about their way of life, their environment, and their culture. This creates a cross-cultural experience, while also bringing the financial benefits of tourism to the local economy. It is often comprised of several small businesses managed and owned by the residents of the destination community, often who belong to a group or association with collective goals of community development and conservation. There are several definitions however the following provides a good overview and framework for developing community-based tourism."CBT is not simply a tourism business that aims at maximizing profits for its investors (like most mass tourism businesses or large resorts). Rather, it is more concerned with the impact of tourism on the community and its environmental resources. CBT emerges from a community development strategy, using tourism as a tool to strengthen the ability of rural organizations that manage tourism resources with the participation of local people. It should:
• Recognize, support and promote community ownership of tourism
• Involve community members from the start in every aspect
• Promote community pride
• Improve quality of life
• Ensure environmental sustainability
• Preserve the unique character and culture of the local area
• Foster cross-cultural learning
• Respect cultural differences and human dignity
• Distribute benefits fairly among community members
• Contribute a fixed percentage of income to community projects"
This definition was elaborated by the Responsible Ecological Social Tours (REST) Project, now part of the Community Based Tourism Institute of Thailand. For more information from around the world, see the Community-Based Tourism Directory.
The best thing about Community-based tourism? The people! Meeting and interacting with the people of rural communities around the world leaves you with the warmest memories and most meaningful experiences.
What is Responsible Travel?
What is Sustainable Tourism?
What is Green Travel?
What is Voluntourism?
