Page 103 - sustainable tourism-- Dr.Aya

Unlike other players in the tourism industry,

local communities must deal with tourism

whether or not they choose to. Some rural

communities that were once quiet and peaceful

are finding themselves invaded by

international tourists, most of whom are just

passing through and not staying to meet local

residents. Residents have mixed reactions to

the intrusion.

Some want nothing to do with tourists; others

are intrigued by the employment opportunities.

Whatever their initial reaction, local residents

are often unprepared for tourism‘s demands.

They often cannot compete with the powerful

tourism industry and do not understand the

desires and behavior of fiercely independent

travelers who want to discover new areas.

Community members play an essential role

in tourism. They may play many direct

roles in the tourism industry, including:

• Renting land for development

• Working as occasional, part-time, or full-

time staff for private tour operators

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