The West Has An Entitlement Problem.

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Australians are among the world's largest spenders on international travel, with over 10 million Australians traveling abroad in 2018. While any industry can have both positive and negative impacts, it’s crucial to examine the tourism industry's specific effects on cultural, economic, and environmental aspects in under-resourced nations.

From my experiences and those shared by friends, I've observed that Western perspectives often have limited and narrow definitions of anything that deviates from our norms.

We’re familiar with friends who post about their travels to destinations like Bali, Thailand, or India, often highlighting their ‘paradise’ or ‘haven.’ I must admit, I’ve been guilty of sharing similar portrayals.

However, such limited and generalised perceptions can obscure the complexities and serious issues faced by these countries. For instance, I once followed a blogger who, during her trip to Bali, focused solely on her five-star resort experience, Western-style food, and activities disconnected from the local culture. This trend is all too common, reflecting a broader issue in how we engage with different cultures.

While everyone is entitled to enjoy their travels, it's important to recognise that these limited experiences risk perpetuating colonial values and undermining the authentic cultures of the places we visit. When travelers shape their experiences to their own comforts, they often fail to contribute positively to the host community's growth.

Understanding Orientalism

To grasp the implications of such behaviors, we must consider Edward Said's concept of 'Orientalism,' introduced in 1978. Said’s work critiques how Western scholarship and media have misrepresented and stereotyped Eastern cultures. He argues that the West tends to generalise and romanticise the 'Orient,' treating it as a monolithic and exotic entity rather than recognising its diverse and complex realities.

Said’s critique highlights how Western perspectives often devalue and undermine Eastern cultures, perpetuating colonial attitudes even after formal colonialism has ended. This 'Orientalist' approach not only distorts understanding but also reinforces a hierarchy where Western values overshadow and marginalise other cultures.

The Consequences of Limited Perceptions

Reducing diverse cultures to simplistic and exotic categories has tangible consequences. In many developing countries, tourism can be a major economic driver. However, when tourism demands align with Western comforts rather than respecting local traditions, it can lead to cultural erosion and economic inequality. Tourists’ unrealistic expectations and entitlement can pressure communities to conform to external demands, often at the cost of their cultural integrity.

For instance, during my undergraduate development immersion in Cambodia, I saw how irresponsible tourism in Siem Reap, a major tourist destination, contributed to severe local poverty.

The influx of tourists led to inflated prices that locals couldn’t afford, forcing many to make financial sacrifices, such as pulling children out of school. The growth of international businesses, particularly those not contributing to local economies, exacerbated the issue.

Similarly, in Sri Lanka, tourism has contributed to environmental degradation as the infrastructure fails to keep pace with the demands of a growing number of visitors. Cruise ship tourism, with its mass arrivals and short stays, often overwhelms small communities, leading to overconsumption and cultural loss.

The Path Forward

To address these issues, travelers should seek responsible and ethical travel options. Companies like Intrepid, Ayana Journeys, and Where There Be Dragons prioritise sustainable practices and respect for local cultures. Intrepid, for instance, employs local guides and provides detailed information to help travelers make informed decisions.

For those traveling independently, researching and choosing options that support local communities rather than large corporations can make a significant difference. Resources like BackpackerBible.org offer valuable insights into responsible solo travel.

Disrespect in travel manifests in various ways, from culturally inappropriate clothing to lack of awareness about local issues. Education is key. Understanding our impact and making more informed choices can mitigate the negative effects of tourism. If comfort and familiarity are priorities, it might be better to choose destinations that align more closely with Western values.

As visitors, we must remember that we are guests in each country we visit. By educating ourselves and respecting local cultures, we can minimise our impact and contribute positively. This respect and understanding may seem like small gestures, but they can profoundly affect the communities we engage with.

It's time to move beyond our entitlement and approach travel with greater awareness and respect.