In recent years, “responsible tourists” have paid attention to preserving both culture and environment of the places they visit. However, some people say that it is impossible to be a “responsible tourist”. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
认为负责任旅游难实现
A big complaint in many places is the damage done by tourists to the environment and local culture. Because of such damage, efforts have been made by the traveling public to become “responsible tourists”. Although this is recognized as a good move, some people say it is impossible to achieve, and I agree with that belief.
First of all, nobody is perfect. Even if tourists do their best not to litter, deface anything, or affect the locals in any way, things will still happen. Trash may accidentally fall, and people may say or do the wrong things out of ignorance. There are even cases when tourists may inadvertently introduce harmful pests, which hitchhiked in their luggage, into the environment.
Next, sometimes the mere looks and habits of a tourist can already affect the locals. That is often a big issue in places where locals have limited contact with outsiders, such as remote villages and closed communities. The local young people often become enamored by the tourists, affecting how they think and behave.
Lastly, while the majority in the group may be “responsible”, there is often someone among them who is still learning the ropes. That person becomes the cause of concern as they are unaware of their actions. Although ignorance was the true culprit to any harm to the environment or culture, sadly, many damages are irreversible.
To conclude, for as long as tourism remains an important part of the economy and a sought-after activity, people should consciously avoid damaging the environment or the culture of the place they are visiting. But to say that "responsible tourists" will not affect the place they are visiting is impossible as their mere presence may already be affecting someone or something.