tourism debate topics

80 ESL Debate Topics About Travel and Tourism

The majority of English language students are curious about languages and cultures. Some of them are learning the language because it is needed in school, while others are learning it because it would help them in their travel. It can be difficult to get started in a conversation with ESL students; teachers may have problems coming up with questions and topics to ask that will get more than a one-sentence response in English from the students. That is why we have compiled a list of 80 debate topics to assist teachers and students in debating what topics can be discussed in the travel and tourism industry.

A debate is a competition in which two opposing teams provide statements on a specific topic and motions to support their arguments and contradict the rival team’s members. The list of debates is structured around yes/no questions and “agree or disagree” statements. By using an example, come up with a more thorough side of the issue. This will also assist the students in developing more detailed responses. Don’t forget to ask them the reason for their answer, and then begin the date. These debate topics are a win-win situation for both teachers and students because they allow them to convey their thoughts on the topics while also practising their English language skills.

Use the following debate topics about travel and tourism to spice up your class next time you’re looking for a great conversation starter while practising your English. To keep the discussion rolling, you can always expand each topic as needed or ask your own questions.

80 debating topics on travel and tourism

Should travelling be avoided until the COVID virus is no longer a factor?
Is it safe for a woman to travel alone?
Visiting the countryside is better than visiting the city when on vacation.
The only way to learn about different cultures is to travel.
Travelling by air is more convenient than travelling by sea.
Is tourism harmful to cities?
It takes a lot of money to travel around the world.
Should travellers purchase souvenirs while on vacation?
Is it appropriate to impose travel restrictions during a pandemic?
Is it necessary for everyone to understand the global language of tourism?
Should vacation leave be extended to allow for travel?
The tourism industry has a negative impact on the environment.
Is it better to book a hotel or an Airbnb?
Should children be allowed for travelling abroad?
The only way to preserve local culture is to increase tourism growth.
Should travel visas be strict?
Weight restrictions in the airport are a great barrier to travel.
Tourists must be required to wear uniforms when they travel for easier identification.
Rescheduling a travel ticket should be free.
Each country’s health protocol regarding tourism must be stricter.
Change in environmental conditions does not affect travellers’ health.
Travellers have a higher risk of transmitting infectious diseases.
Should insurance cover medical treatment even abroad?
Travelling may increase involvement in violence.
International travel is always a stressful experience.
The use of social media is the major factor why tourism has increased.
Travelling together is better than travelling alone.
Tourism greatly affects consumers’ behaviour.
Government should focus on infrastructure that rebuilds the travel industry.
Modernization of transportation must be prioritized for the travel industry.
Is it possible to travel without having an impact on the environment?
All countries’ economies depend on tourism.
One should travel domestically first before travelling internationally.
Should we stop travelling to help the environment?
Tourists nowadays prefer travelling for wildlife activities.
Ecotourism has a more viable positive impact on the environment than sustainable tourism.
Should school field trips include travelling abroad?
Programs for tourism should require incentives for the affected local communities.
Tourists should be held accountable for any damage to natural resources.
Tourism puts more pressure on endangered species.
Tourism causes the over-consumption of natural resources.
Tourism increases pollution.
Tourism causes overcrowding and traffic jams.
Tourism preserves the local culture and heritage.
Tourism decreases job opportunities, and most are low paying jobs.
Tourism should be banned for the environment.
Governments must focus on the tourism industry more than infrastructure and healthcare.
Tourism leads to changes in the local culture.
Most tourists disregard and disrespect traditions because of their intent to just “relax or have a good time”
Tourists cause physical damage to culture and heritage.
Tourism produces a lot of unwanted waste.
Natural areas are being compromised to build places for tourists can stay, such as airports and hotels.
Ecofriendly products must be required when travelling to protect the ecosystem.
The tourism industry’s largest source of carbon emissions is transportation.
The coronavirus did not affect the tourism industry at all.
Is the tourism industry hampered because of the currency exchange rate fluctuations?
Taxes make it difficult for tourists to travel.
Tourism growth is limited by security concerns.
Should the visa requirements be lenient for travel?
Should tourism businesses invest more in information and communication technology to become more competitive?
Human resources in tourism should be required to be multilingual.
Reviews and comments online do not help the growth of the tourism industry.
The customer’s experience should be the first priority of a tourist place.
Loyalty programs for tourists are not effective.
Foreign travellers should be able to connect with travel companies and tourism boards.
Should sanitary measures be restricted in the tourism industry?
The world trends do not affect the travel industry.
Banning tourism will increase mental health issues.
Must tourists always be accompanied by a tour guide?
In zoos, feeding animals has an impact on their behaviour.
Should pick any leaves or flowers must be forbidden during a tour?
It should be mandatory for tourists to bring their own garbage bags.
Should smoking be prohibited in forests or on-farm trips?
Gestures and body language are viewed the same all over the world?
Should tourists consider their clothing with respect for the culture?
Should the travel ads be trusted?
Government should require tourists to taste local food for the industry.
The tourism industry helps in the preservation of water consumption.
More and more local people become homeless because of tourism.
Should tourism become the biggest focus of the economy to build bridges of understanding among cultures?

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100+ Tourism Research Topics: Trends and Future Directions

Tourism research stands at the crossroads of exploration and understanding, dissecting the intricacies of an industry that transcends geographical boundaries. In this blog, we delve into the realm of tourism research topics, examining their importance, trends, popular areas of study, challenges faced by researchers, and the future directions that the field is poised to take.

Key Trends in Tourism Research

Table of Contents

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism has become a cornerstone of research in recent years, reflecting the global shift towards eco-conscious travel. Researchers are delving into the intricate balance between satisfying the wanderlust of tourists and preserving the environment.

Initiatives such as wildlife conservation, eco-friendly accommodations, and community engagement are key focus areas.

Technology in Tourism

The pervasive influence of technology on tourism cannot be overstated. From online booking platforms to virtual reality experiences, researchers are exploring the impact of technology on travel behavior.

Emerging areas of study include the use of artificial intelligence in personalized travel recommendations and the implications of augmented reality for enhancing tourist attractions.

What is the Importance of Tourism Research for Students?

Tourism research holds significant importance for students pursuing studies in various disciplines, including tourism management, hospitality, business, sociology, and environmental studies. Here are some key reasons why tourism research is valuable for students:

Academic Enrichment

Increases Understanding: By conducting study on the tourist business, students may increase their comprehension of the intricate relationships between the economic, social, cultural, and environmental facets of the sector.
Application of Theoretical information: This increases the practical relevance of their education by giving them the chance to apply the theoretical information they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Skill Development

Research Skills: Gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data are just a few of the vital research skills that come from conducting tourist research. These abilities are adaptable and useful in a range of work environments.
Communication abilities: Through research papers, presentations, and conversations, students learn how to effectively express their results, which improves both their writing and spoken communication abilities.

Industry Insights

Current Trends and Issues: Research allows students to stay abreast of current trends, challenges, and emerging issues in the tourism industry. This awareness is crucial for adapting to the dynamic nature of the field.
In-Depth Knowledge: By delving into specific tourism research topics, students gain in-depth knowledge of particular sectors within the industry, positioning themselves as experts in specialized areas.

Career Opportunities

Competitive Advantage: Having experience in tourism research can provide students with a competitive advantage in the job market. Employers value candidates who can bring a research-driven perspective to decision-making.
Diverse Career Paths: Whether in academia, policy-making, destination management, or market analysis, a background in tourism research opens doors to a variety of career paths within the broader field of tourism and hospitality.

Contributions to Sustainable Practices

Environmental and Social Responsibility: Tourism research often focuses on sustainable practices. Students, through their research, can contribute ideas and solutions for promoting responsible tourism, minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local communities.

Global Perspective

Cultural Awareness: Researching diverse tourism topics exposes students to various cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This global perspective is crucial in an industry where interactions with people from different backgrounds are common.

Problem-Solving Skills

Analytical Thinking: Research involves analyzing complex issues and developing solutions. This cultivates students’ analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, valuable attributes in any professional setting.

Personal Growth

Confidence Building: Successfully conducting research and presenting findings builds students’ confidence in their abilities. It empowers them to tackle challenges and approach tasks with a systematic mindset.

In summary, tourism research is a multifaceted learning experience that goes beyond textbooks, providing students with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives needed for a successful and impactful career in the tourism industry or related fields.

Challenges and Opportunities in Tourism Research

Data collection and analysis.

While technology has streamlined data collection, challenges persist in ensuring data accuracy and relevance. Researchers are exploring advanced methodologies, such as big data analytics and machine learning, to overcome these hurdles and derive meaningful insights.

Globalization and Tourism

The globalization of the tourism industry poses both challenges and opportunities. Researchers are scrutinizing the impact of global trends on local economies, cultural identities, and the environment. Striking a balance between global and local interests is a complex task that requires careful consideration.

Future Directions in Tourism Research

Emerging tourism destinations.

The landscape of tourist destinations is ever-evolving. Researchers are turning their attention to emerging destinations, investigating the factors that contribute to their rise and the implications for the broader tourism industry.

This includes understanding the appeal of off-the-beaten-path locations and the potential challenges associated with their sudden popularity.

Post-Pandemic Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the tourism industry in unprecedented ways. Researchers are exploring the long-term effects of the pandemic on travel behavior, destination preferences, and the overall structure of the tourism sector.

Strategies for recovery and resilience are also under the microscope as the industry adapts to the new normal.

Resources for Tourism Research Topics

Academic Journals and Publications: Leading academic journals in tourism research, such as the “Journal of Sustainable Tourism” and the “Annals of Tourism Research,” provide a wealth of knowledge for researchers. These publications cover a wide array of topics, from sustainable practices to cultural tourism.
Conferences and Events: Attending conferences and events, such as the “International Conference on Tourism Research” and the “World Tourism Forum,” offers researchers the opportunity to engage with peers, present their work, and stay abreast of the latest developments in the field.
Online Databases and Research Platforms: Online databases, including Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Tourism Management Database , provide access to a vast repository of research articles, theses, and reports. These platforms facilitate collaboration and information exchange among researchers.

In conclusion, the landscape of tourism research topics is vast and dynamic, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the tourism industry. As researchers continue to explore sustainable practices, emerging trends, and the post-pandemic landscape, the importance of their work cannot be overstated.

By navigating the challenges and embracing the opportunities presented, tourism researchers contribute to a more informed and resilient industry, ensuring that the joy of travel remains accessible for generations to come.

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Tourism Discussion and Debate Lesson for Advanced Level Classes

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Many thanks to Kevin Roche, a colleague of mine, who has kindly allowed me to include his conversation lesson on the site.

Tourism is becoming more and more important, especially for those learning English . Here is a two-part lesson that focuses on the question of developing tourism as an industry in your local town. Students need to develop concepts , discuss local economic problems and solutions to those problems, think about possible negative impacts and finally make a presentation. These two lessons provide a great long-term project for upper-level students while offering an opportunity to use English in a number of "authentic" settings.

Let's Do Tourism: Part 1

Aim: Discussion, explaining, reasoning, agreeing and disagreeing

Activity: Tourism; do we need it? Discussion of pros and cons of developing local tourism

Level: Upper-intermediate to advanced

Split students into two groups; one group representatives of 'Let's Do Tourism', a tourism development company. The other group representatives of the residents of your city and are in opposition to the plans of 'Let's Do tourism'.
Give each student a copy of one of the discussion notes.
Ask students if they have any questions on the explanatory notes.
Give students fifteen minutes to prepare for the discussion in their groups. Students should discuss the points mentioned and any other points they may come up with within their groups.
Circulate around the classroom helping students and taking notes on common language problems.
Have students get back together and try to convince you (or another chosen group of students) of their reasoning.
Begin the activity follow-up by going over some of the more common mistakes made by students.
Finish the activity as a class by asking each student to choose one reason either for or against the project. Each student should then discuss one of the points in front of the rest of the class. Ask other students to comment on the arguments presented.

Your Town, The Next Tourist Paradise

A company called 'let's Do Tourism' is panning to invest a large amount of money to turn your town into a major center for tourists. They have made plans to manufacture a number of hotels and other tourist infrastructure in your town. As well as the hotels, they have also made plans to radically improve the nightlife in your town by opening a string of clubs and bars. They hope that by the year 2004 your town will be a major competitor within the tourist industry in your country.

You are representatives of 'Let's Do Tourism' your aim is to promote the plans of your company and to convince me that tourism is the best solutions for your city. Points to concentrate on:

The increase in jobs that will come with an increase in investment.
The money that the tourists will bring into the local economy
The progress and development of your city will result in it becoming more important with not only your region but also your country as well.
Better for the young people of your city as there will be much more investment in leisure industries.

You are the representatives of the residents of your city and are in opposition to the plans of 'Let's Do tourism'. Your aim is to convince me that this is a bad idea for your town. Points to consider:

Environmental issues: tourists = pollution
Troublemakers: many tourists have no respect for the places they visit and are only interested in getting drunk and causing trouble.
The rise in tourism will bring about radical changes and will result in the traditional way of life in your town being lost. Perhaps forever.
Rather than promoting the position of your city in your country, this move will make your city the laughing stock of your country.
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What's the problem with overtourism?

With visitor numbers around the world increasing towards pre-pandemic levels, the issue of overtourism is once again rearing its head.

When locals in the charming Austrian lakeside village of Hallstatt staged a blockade of the main access tunnel, brandishing placards asking visitors to ‘think of the children’, it highlighted what can happen when places start to feel overrun by tourists. Hallstatt has just 800 residents but has opened its doors to around 10,000 visitors a day — a population increase of over 1,000%. And it’s just one of a growing number of places where residents are up in arms at the influx of travellers.

The term ‘overtourism’ is relatively new, having been coined over a decade ago to highlight the spiralling numbers of visitors taking a toll on cities, landmarks and landscapes. As tourist numbers worldwide return towards pre-pandemic levels, the debate around what constitutes ‘too many’ visitors continues. While many destinations, reliant on the income that tourism brings, are still keen for arrivals, a handful of major cities and sites are now imposing bans, fines, taxes and time-slot systems, and, in some cases, even launching campaigns of discouragement in a bid to curb tourist numbers.

What is overtourism?

In essence, overtourism is too many people in one place at any given time. While there isn’t a definitive figure stipulating the number of visitors allowed, an accumulation of economic, social and environmental factors determine if and how numbers are creeping up.

There are the wide-reaching effects, such as climate change. Coral reefs, like the Great Barrier Reef and Maya Bay, Thailand, made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio film, The Beach , are being degraded from visitors snorkelling, diving and touching the corals, as well as tour boats anchoring in the waters. And 2030 transport-related carbon emissions from tourism are expected to grow 25% from 2016 levels, representing an increase from 5% to 5.3% of all man-made emissions, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). More localised issues are affecting locals, too. Renters are being evicted by landlords in favour of turning properties into holiday lets, and house prices are escalating as a result. As visitors and rental properties outnumber local residents, communities are being lost. And, skyrocketing prices, excessive queues, crowded beaches, exorbitant noise levels, damage at historical sites and the ramifications to nature as people overwhelm or stray from official paths are also reasons the positives of tourism can have a negative impact.

Conversely, ‘undertourism’ is a term applied to less-frequented destinations, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. The economic, social and environmental benefits of tourism aren't always passed on to those with plenty of capacity and, while tourist boards are always keen for visitors to visit their lesser-known attractions, it’s a more sustainable and rewarding experience for both residents and visitors.

What’s the main problem with it?

Overcrowding is an issue for both locals and tourists. It can ruin the experience of sightseeing for those trapped in long queues, unable to visit museums, galleries and sites without advance booking, incurring escalating costs for basics like food, drink and hotels, and faced with the inability to experience the wonder of a place in relative solitude. The absence of any real regulations has seen places take it upon themselves to try and establish some form of crowd control, meaning no cohesion and no real solution.

Justin Francis, co-founder and CEO of Responsible Travel, a tour operator that focuses on more sustainable travel, says “Social media has concentrated tourism in hotspots and exacerbated the problem, and tourist numbers globally are increasing while destinations have a finite capacity. Until local people are properly consulted about what they want and don’t want from tourism, we’ll see more protests.”

A French start up, Murmuration, which monitors the environmental impact of tourism by using satellite data, states that 80% of travellers visit just 10% of the world's tourism destinations, meaning bigger crowds in fewer spots. And, the UNWTO predicts that by 2030, the number of worldwide tourists, which peaked at 1.5 billion in 2019, will reach 1.8 billion, likely leading to greater pressure on already popular spots and more objection from locals.

Who has been protesting?

Of the 800 residents in the UNESCO-listed village of Hallstatt, around 100 turned out in August to show their displeasure and to push for a cap on daily visitors and a curfew on tour coach arrivals.

Elsewhere, residents in Venice fought long and hard for a ban on cruise ships, with protest flags often draped from windows. In 2021, large cruise ships over 25,000 tonnes were banned from using the main Giudecca Canal, leaving only smaller passenger ferries and freight vessels able to dock.

In France, the Marseille Provence Cruise Club introduced a flow management system for cruise line passengers in 2020, easing congestion around the popular Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica. A Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) spokesperson said, “Coaches are limited to four per ship during the morning or afternoon at the Basilica to ensure a good visitor experience and safety for residents and local businesses. This is a voluntary arrangement respected by cruise lines.”

While in Orkney, Scotland, residents have been up in arms at the number of cruise ships docking on its shores. At the beginning of 2023, the local council confirmed that 214 cruise ship calls were scheduled for the year, bringing around £15 million in revenue to the islands. Following backlash from locals, the council has since proposed a plan to restrict the number of ships on any day.

What steps are being taken?

City taxes have become increasingly popular, with Barcelona increasing its nightly levy in April 2023 — which was originally introduced in 2012 and varies depending on the type of accommodation — and Venice expects to charge day-trippers a €5 fee from 2024.

In Amsterdam this summer, the city council voted to ban cruise ships, while the mayor, Femke Halsema, commissioned a campaign of discouragement, asking young British men who planned to have a 'vacation from morals’ to stay away. In Rome, sitting at popular sites, such as the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, has been restricted by the authorities.

And in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, meanwhile, the Narok County governor has introduced on-the-spot fines for off-roading. He also plans to double nightly park fees in peak season.

What are the forecasts for global tourism?

During the Covid pandemic, tourism was one of the hardest-hit industries — according to UNWTO, international tourist arrivals dropped 72% in 2020. However, traveller numbers have since been rapidly increasing, with double the number of people venturing abroad in the first three months of 2023 than in the same period in 2022. And, according to the World Travel Tourism Council, the tourism sector is expected to reach £7.5 trillion this year, 95% of its pre-pandemic levels.

While the tourism industry is forecast to represent 11.6% of the global economy by 2033, it’s also predicted that an increasing number of people will show more interest in travelling more sustainably. In a 2022 survey by Booking.com, 64% of the people asked said they would be prepared to stay away from busy tourist sites to avoid adding to congestion.

Are there any solutions?

There are ways to better manage tourism by promoting more off-season travel, limiting numbers where possible and having greater regulation within the industry. Encouraging more sustainable travel and finding solutions to reduce friction between residents and tourists could also have positive impacts. Promoting alternative, less-visited spots to redirect travellers may also offer some benefits.

Harold Goodwin, emeritus professor at Manchester Metropolitan University, says, “Overtourism is a function of visitor volumes, but also of conflicting behaviours, crowding in inappropriate places and privacy. Social anthropologists talk about frontstage and backstage spaces. Tourists are rarely welcome in backstage spaces. To manage crowds, it’s first necessary to analyse and determine the causes of them.

Francis adds: “However, we must be careful not to just recreate the same problems elsewhere. The most important thing is to form a clear strategy, in consultation with local people about what a place wants or needs from tourism.”

As it stands, overtourism is a seasonal issue for a small number of destinations. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, a range of measures are clearly an option depending on the scale of the problem. For the majority of the world, tourism remains a force for good with many benefits beyond simple economic growth.

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Debating Matters

sixth-form debating competition

Monuments to controversial historical figures should remain (DM Transatlantic version)

Published: September 2024

Debating Matters Transatlantic is a partnership project between Bill of Rights Institute, Ideas Matter and Incubate Debate.

INTRODUCTION

In June 2020, in a response to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests, people in Bristol, UK, vandalised and then toppled a statue of Edward Colston [Ref: BBC ]. In the United States, heated debates also occurred over the existence of monuments to controversial figures. For example, in Richmond, Virginia, the city removed three statues of Confederate leaders on ‘Monument Avenue’ in 2020, with the state removing the last one in 2021. Many other cities in the southern US also removed statues of Confederate figures.

In the UK, the toppling of the Colston statue prompted the Mayor of London to set up the Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm [Ref: Wikipedia ] with the aim of ensuring London’s monuments, plaques and street names reflect the diversity of the city today [ref: London.gov.uk ]. Reviews of statues are being planned in other UK cities, too, including Cardiff, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle [Ref: Sky News ]. Edinburgh City Council has convened a review group to look at public monuments, street names and building names that have links to slavery and colonialism [Ref: Edinburgh Evening News ].

Populism is a threat to democracy (DM Transatlantic version)

Populism is the political buzzword of the day – with commentators, political theorists and politicians all debating its meaning and the merits of its apparent rise in recent years. Examples of populism abound: from Brexit and Trump, which dominated discussion in 2016, to more recent examples such as the 2023 election of Javier Milei in Argentina [Ref: Populism Studies] , the Europe-wide farmers’ protests [Ref: Financial Times] , the rise of the Reform Party in the UK [Ref: The Week] or, most strikingly, the overwhelming rejection by referendum in Ireland of a proposed constitutional change [Ref: Guardian ]. Whilst many discuss populism as a right-wing phenomenon, it has a long history on the left as well, with recent examples of Syriza in Greece [Ref: New Statesman ] and Podemos in Spain [Ref: BBC News ].

But particular alarm is caused today by its right-wing variety. Some insist it is dangerous for democracy and liberal values, going so far as to suggest that it has echoes of the emergence of fascism in the 1930s and 1940s [Ref: Guardian ]. Such fears seemed to be confirmed when news broke in Germany of an alleged meeting between members of a leading far-right populist party, Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), and neo-Nazi groups. This led to widespread public protests and even calls to ban the AfD [Ref: Guardian ]. The call to ban a political party, supported by a large number of Germans, gets to the heart of the debate about populism: is populism a reflection of widespread anger and disillusionment with the mainstream, or is it a dangerous force which justifies suspending the democratic process in order to contain it?

Cancel culture is a threat to freedom of speech (DM Transatlantic version)

published: September 2024

Cancel culture is one of the buzzwords of the social-media age. It describes the view that there is a new assault on freedom of expression and belief, beyond traditional free-speech controversies like ‘de-platforming’. Cancel culture is a form of boycott where a person who has shared a controversial opinion, expressed an ‘inappropriate’ viewpoint or whose actions are perceived as offensive is called out and then ‘cancelled’ for their errant behaviour.

It seems there is an example of a celebrity getting ‘canceled’ or claiming to have been canceled every week. Author JK Rowling, rapper Kanye West, television host Ellen DeGeneres, comedian Dave Chappelle and actor Mel Gibson are just a few who have been fired and lost endorsements or work for expressing their views. But it’s not just limited to the world of celebrity. Harper’s Magazine published a joint letter from a diverse range of 153 prominent writers, including Salman Rushdie and Margaret Atwood, concerned more generally that ‘the free exchange of information and ideas, the lifeblood of a liberal society, is daily becoming more constricted’ [Ref: Harper’s Magazine ].

But plenty of commentators think this is no threat to freedom of expression, arguing call-outs are the natural consequence of voicing prejudiced and bigoted opinions, and those who complain that they are held accountable are the ones really trying to crack down on freedom of speech [Ref: Varsity ]. So, does this new culture stifle debate and jeopardise free speech, or is it merely what fair and open debate looks like in the social-media age?

Humanity should fear advances in artificial intelligence (DM Transatlantic version)

published: September 2024 Debating Matters Transatlantic is a partnership project between Bill of Rights Institute, Ideas Matter and Incubate Debate.

In recent years, the increasing ability of machines to replicate or even supersede human abilities in complex tasks has been impressive. Already, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques have been used to allow machines to beat the best players in the world at both chess [Ref: Time ] and the Chinese board game Go [Ref: Guardian ]. IBM’s Watson has beaten the best human players on the long-running US quiz show, Jeopardy! [Ref: TechRepublic ]. AI has long been built into consumer goods such as Google search, Alexa and Siri, and is being rolled out in the UK National Health Service [Ref: Gov.uk ]. Things really took off in September 2022, however, with the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Its ability to produce convincingly human-sounding text in response to prompts written in everyday language was a sensation, reaching one million users within five days [Ref: Exploding Topics ]. Since then, AI applications have hit the mainstream, available and easy-to-use for anyone with an internet connection; alongside text-generation products like ChatGPT, AI-powered tools for generating images, audio, video, code and more have proliferated.

But the implications for society are only just becoming apparent. In January 2024, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) claimed that nearly 40 per cent of jobs worldwide will be affected by AI. She warned that it will likely worsen global inequality, but could also enhance some humans’ performance and create new jobs [Ref: CNBC ]. Jobs lost could range from call-centre staff being replaced by chatbots to highly-educated law and finance professionals; these industries are now projected to be among the most affected by AI [Ref: Guardian ]. Facial-recognition systems, combined with ubiquitous CCTV, could erode our privacy. AI-powered autonomous weapons, or bioweapons developed using AI technology, could herald new and deadlier forms of warfare.

Smartphones should be banned in the classroom

Please note, this Topic Guide should be the starting point of your research. You are encouraged to conduct your own independent research to supplement your argument.

According to some studies, 98 per cent of the UK population now own a smartphone ( Ref: Uswitch ). Recent research by the UK’s communications regulator Ofcom , further found that smartphone ownership among 12- to 15-year-olds is above 95 per cent , with nearly a quarter of three- and four-year-olds owning a device. In addition, their research also showed that half of children aged three to 12 use at least one social-media app, despite the minimum age requirement being 13 ( Ref: Guardian ).

Smartphone use has been linked to a wide range of poor educational and mental-health problems, particularly in relation to social-media use ( Ref: TES ). The use of smartphones by under-16s has, therefore, become the subject of widespread debate – both in Parliament and within society more broadly. From failing eyesight, insomnia and poor concentration to self-harm, anorexia, anxiety and addiction, social media is held to be responsible for an array of problems relating to mental health and wellbeing in children. This has led many to call for an outright ban, or for usage to be at least severely restricted, for those under 16, particularly in school ( Ref: Spectator ).

Germany should pay reparations for its colonial past

updated 2024

Following wartime reparations, most notably to Holocaust survivors, attention now has turned towards reparations in relation to Germany’s colonial past. In particular, there has been a long-standing discussion surrounding reparations over the genocide against the Herero and Nama people of Namibia [Ref: BBC ]. In June 2021, the German and Namibian governments published a Joint Declaration to come to terms with the genocide in Namibia. Instead of reparation payments, the government promised development aid amounting to €1.1 billion, to be paid in the course of the next 30 years. [Ref: Guardian ]

However, there has been criticism from some commentators who say the agreement does not include representatives of the Herero and Nama tribes [Ref: Guardian ], with others arguing the Namibia agreement should mark a beginning, and not an end to negotiations [Ref: DW ]. Furthermore, in 2022, the Namibian vice president demanded the renegotiation of the 2021 treaty, saying the old one was insufficient [Ref: Deutschlandfunk Kultur ].

Tourism benefits the world

On 25 April 2024, the city of Venice implemented an entry fee scheme for day-trip tourists [ref: Independent ]. According to city officials, the scheme is aiming to ‘safeguard the city from “overtourism”’. Other European cities, including Prague, Barcelona, Athens and Seville, are considering similar schemes [ref: Guardian ]. The Scottish government is considering allowing cities like Edinburgh to levy an accommodation surcharge to fund events like the loss-making but hugely popular Hogmanay celebrations [Ref: Guardian ]. Although the Venice initiative is a pilot scheme, which will be reviewed after a year, the authorities want to assess whether there is a deterrent effect on tourism.

Tourism has traditionally been seen as a way of showing appreciation for different places, peoples and cultures, and many cities around the world have a thriving tourist industry that benefits inhabitants. However, mounting fears about the impact of mass tourism have led many to question whether tourists are actually ruining the places they love. A debate about the effects of tourism on tourist destinations has been going on for some time [Ref: Telegraph ], leading to the rise of related ideas like eco-tourism [Ref: International Ecotourism Society ] or sustainable tourism [Ref: Wikipedia ].

Populism is a threat to democracy

Populism is the political buzzword of the day – with commentators, political theorists and politicians all debating its meaning and the merits of its apparent rise in recent years. Examples of populism abound: from Brexit and Trump which dominated discussion in 2016, to more recent examples such as the 2023 election of Javier Milei in Argentina [Ref: Populism Studies ], the Europe-wide farmers’ protests [Ref: Financial Times ] and the rise of the Reform Party in the UK [Ref: The Week ] or most strikingly the overwhelming rejection by referendum in Ireland of a proposed constitutional change [Ref: The Guardian ]. Whilst many discuss populism as a right-wing phenomenon, it has a long history on the left as well, with recent examples of Syriza in Greece [Ref: New Statesman ] and Podemos in Spain [Ref: BBC News ].

But particular alarm is caused today by its right-wing variety. Some insist it is dangerous for democracy and liberal values, going so far as to suggest that it has echoes of the emergence of fascism in the 1930s and 1940s [Ref: Guardian ]. Such fears seemed to be confirmed when news broke in Germany of an alleged meeting between members of far-right populist party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) and neo-Nazi groups. This led to widespread public protests and even calls to ban the AfD [ Ref: The Guardian ]. The call to ban a political party, supported by a large number of Germans, gets to the heart of the debate about populism: is populism a reflection of widespread anger and disillusionment with the mainstream, or is it a dangerous force which justifies suspending the democratic process in order to contain it?

Assisted dying should be legalised

Physician assisted dying is a term encompassing both assisted suicide and euthanasia. Assisted suicide is the practice of allowing doctors to prescribe life-ending drugs to be administered by individuals who want to die to avoid further suffering. Euthanasia is where someone else – usually a doctor – administers the lethal drug.

The past few decades have seen an international trend of legalising this practice, sometimes for just the terminally ill, sometimes the chronically ill, and sometimes even people whose body is healthy but whose mental illness is so extreme that their suffering is thought to justify the procedure. As this has happened in several liberal societies, many questions have been raised. Can someone ever rationally justify taking their own life, or is it a simple, reasonable choice to make for those who are suffering? What are the wider implications to a society that accepts that sometimes life isn’t worth living? Does the medical profession suffer when the role of the doctor is extended from life-preserver to include life-taker, or is it better that the option to die is put into the hands of professionals?

Humanity should fear advances in artificial intelligence

In recent years, the increasing ability of machines to replicate or even supersede human abilities in complex tasks has been impressive. Already, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques have been used to allow machines to beat the best players in the world at both chess [Ref: Time ] and the Chinese board game Go [Ref: Guardian ]. IBM’s Watson has beaten the best human players on the long-running US quiz show, Jeopardy! [Ref: Techrepublic ]. AI has long been built into consumer goods such as Google search, Alexa and Siri, and is being rolled out in the NHS [Ref: Gov.uk ]. Things really took off in September 2022, however, with the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Its ability to produce convincingly human-sounding text in response to prompts written in everyday language was a sensation, reaching one million users within five days [Ref: Exploding Topics ]. Since then, AI applications have hit the mainstream, available and easy-to-use for anyone with an internet connection; alongside text-generation products like ChatGPT, AI-powered tools for generating images, audio, video, code and more have proliferated.

But the implications for society are only just becoming apparent. In January 2024, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund claimed 40 per cent of jobs worldwide will be affected by AI. She warned that it will likely worsen global inequality, but could also enhance some humans’ performance and create new jobs [Ref: Guardian ]. Jobs lost could range from call-centre staff being replaced by chatbots to highly-educated law and finance professionals; these industries are now projected to be among the most affected by AI [Ref: Guardian ]. Facial recognition systems, combined with ubiquitous CCTV, could erode our privacy. AI-powered autonomous weapons, or bioweapons developed using AI technology, could herald new and deadlier forms of warfare. The world-famous physicist, Stephen Hawking, even claimed that ‘AI may replace humans altogether’ as a ‘new form of life’ that can rapidly learn and improve, making people obsolete [Ref: Independent ]. However, AI is also projected to boost the UK’s GDP by up to 10 per cent by 2030 [Ref: PwC ] and has the potential to revolutionise fields as diverse as medicine, education and sustainability. So, should we welcome AI’s potential, or are the risks too great?

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The World’s 4 Most Controversial Tourism Practices

See recent posts by Rebecca Nadge

The potential to make money can lead to controversial practices -- and tourism industries have the potential to make a lot of money: a report by the World Travel & Tourism Council stated that worldwide tourism contributed $7.6 trillion to the economy in 2014. It's well known that tourism can bring many positives to an area: money boosts the local economy, jobs are created, and visitors can learn and appreciate cultures different from their own. Just as easily though, tourism can bring about negative change. From environmental impacts to animal cruelty, corrupt governments to human safaris, there are numerous negative effects of various tourist attractions that have come under fire in recent years. Ethically speaking, traveling forces us to continually question our actions -- for example, is it "right" to travel to a country that is known for violating human rights?

Tour companies vary greatly when it comes to practices, and a higher price does not guarantee that a particular company is any more sustainable, reputable, or fair. As with any travel experience, prior research is the most effective way to ensure that your visit isn't contributing to or causing negative impacts on the local community. Here are the world's four most controversial tourism practices.

1. Slum Tourism

Photo credit: Thomas Galvez

Having first begun in Rio de Janeiro about 20 years ago, slum tourism is now available in a range of countries, including Brazil , India and South Africa . Films such as “Slumdog Millionaire” have raised the “curiosity” profile of slum areas, and as a result visits through informal settlements are booming. With most tours, guests are led through the settlements by an English-speaking guide, who explains the lifestyle of those drastically less fortunate.

It can be argued that slum tourism educates visitors on poverty, and can invoke deepened compassion and a willingness to help those in need. The issue, however, is that such tours are often run by for-profit tour companies, and the money paid towards the tour often will not see its way back to the community that would benefit from it the most. Additionally, tours through informal settlements have been described as imperialistic, with the locals put “on show” for the wealthy tourists.

If slum tourism is combined with local projects to inject money back to the community, it may bring about positive change. However, many people will never see the attraction of witnessing others’ poverty.

2. Climbing Everest

Photo credit: lampertron

Although climbing Mount Everest is an experience that many people wouldn’t dream of, guided treks up the world’s highest peak have provided big business for tour operators. In recent years, the ethics of climbing the mountain have been questioned again and again, particularly following the devastating earthquakes that hit Nepal in 2015 , killing at least 22 people.

The controversy surrounding Everest is often focused on the treatment of the sherpas, who are frequently paid significantly less than their Western colleagues. Nepal is one of Asia’s poorest countries, yet the park fees charged by the government can amount into the millions each year. When disaster strikes, it is the sherpas who are usually hit the hardest, and compensation for families is minimal. There is also debate regarding the role of guides — at what point are they no longer responsible for their clients?

Additionally, the litter left on the mountain has raised numerous environmental concerns. Rubbish, human waste, and more litter the mountainside, which prompted the Nepalese government to introduce a rule in 2014 that required each climber to bring eight kilograms of litter back to Base Camp. Even with enforced rules regarding litter control, tourists are still advised to carry out extensive research on guiding companies to ensure they side with a reputable establishment.

3. Animal Experiences

Photo credit: xiquinhosilva

From the running of the bulls to riding elephants, animal exploitation of some degree is present in virtually every country in the world. Particularly in very poor nations, the treatment of animals can be distressing.

In many cases, animals have become attractions in themselves, particularly if they are perceived as exotic. An infamous animal experience is Thailand ‘s Tiger Temple, which sees hundreds of visitors a day posing with captive tigers. Marketed as a sanctuary, the Temple is anything but, with inside investigations noting unregistered breeding (purely for profit) and animal abuse. Elephant riding has also come under fire in various locations.

Additionally, the conditions many animals are raised in prior to consumption can be heartbreaking, with suitable food and adequate veterinary care sadly lacking. In Spain , the running of the bulls receives ongoing condemnation, yet visitors continue to travel to the event. It appears that for many, experiencing a local tradition or meal justifies participation in an event involving animal cruelty.

4. Orphanage Volunteering

Photo credit: Neon Tommy

While any real help is appreciated, a week or two is hardly enough to bring about a noticeable change, although it is often long enough for the children to become attached to the tourist. It’s nearly inevitable that the children will experience emotional instability due to continual feelings of abandonment once their helpers return home. Even more worrying is the drastic increase in orphanages, which seems to rise with the number of tourists trends. A 2009 study in Siem Reap discovered that only 23 percent of children in orphanages had no living parents; of a population of 100,000, there are 35 orphanages. For poor families, sending a child to an orphanage can be a way of gaining income from wealthy westerners.

Supporting community-based initiatives that generate income or assist in training are far more valuable and sustainable. For those interested in voluntourism, research organizations thoroughly — and consider who will benefit most from your actions.

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25 Conversation questions about tourism

Conversation questions about tourism.

Tourism is a massive worldwide industry that just about every country embraces. Most people love to go to new places, meet new people, and see new things. This is a fun speaking topic that is particularly interesting for those who are working in the tourism industry or want to in the future.

The most challenging terms for English language learners in these discussion questions about tourism include – industry, domestic, international, festival, consider, medical, charge (money), locals, provide, ecotourism, rely, nationality, create, destroy, promote, and mention.

The conversation questions about tourism are –

1 – What are the first 5 things that you think of when you hear the word tourism?

2 – Is tourism a big industry in your country? Where do most tourists go and why?

3 – Do you see more domestic or international tourists traveling around your country?

4 – Are there any special festivals or food that bring tourism to where you live?

5 – Do you spend much money on travel each year? Where will you go next?

6 – Have you ever considered medical tourism? Where would you go for this and why?

7 – Which countries are very cheap for tourists? Which countries are very expensive?

8 – Do tourists pay the same prices as locals in your country or are they charged more?

9 – Would you like to work in the tourism industry? What job would you like to do?

10 – Do tourists ever come to your hometown? What is there for tourists to do there?

11 – What are some popular websites about tourism? What do these websites provide?

12 – How would you describe ecotourism? Is it becoming more popular in your country?

13 – What could your country do to bring in more tourists from around the world?

14 – Have you ever had any problems while traveling as a tourist? What happened?

15 – What are some countries that rely heavily on tourism for their economies?

16 – How much money do you think that a tourist spends per week visiting your country?

17 – Which nationalities visit your country as tourists the most often? Why is this so?

18 – In what ways can tourism be bad for the environment? How can this be helped?

19 – What kinds of jobs does tourism create? Can tourism ever destroy jobs? How?

20 – How do you think that tourism around the world will change in the future ?

21 – What are some things that could be built in your local area to encourage tourism?

22 – In what ways do older and younger tourists travel differently?

23 – Do you like to watch TV shows about tourism? What was the last show you saw?

24 – What do you think about tourists visiting your country? Are you happy that they visit?

25 – If you were to promote tourism for your country, what things would you mention?

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Closing Remarks: High-Level Thematic Debate on Sustainable Tourism

Remarks by h.e. mr. abdulla shahid, president of the 76th session of the united nations general assembly.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you for the very fruitful and rich debate today.

Your insights on the role and importance of sustainable and resilient tourism, for an inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, have been very enriching and informative in paving the way forward.

Without a doubt, the unparalleled tolls of the pandemic have been far-reaching and wide.

Now in a third year of the pandemic, we must ask ourselves, “what’s next?”

– How can we, as a global community, move beyond the pandemic, rebuild economies, and restore hope and trust?

– How can we reclaim the Decade of Action for the Sustainable Development Goals, as a “Decade of Recovery?

– How do we ensure that the private sector and all actors look beyond the bottom line to really care about a sustainable transformation?

As demonstrated by today’s multi-stakeholder debate, it is critical that efforts to rebuild and transform the tourism sector are done with people, planet, and prosperity at the heart, and in partnership with governments, the private sector and civil society.

Today’s discussions further underscored how powerful tourism can be as a driver of sustainable development.

But this is not a given, and it is not guaranteed.

It must be well-managed to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint and help fight climate change; it must contribute to reducing economic and income inequality while promoting prosperity; and it must support local and indigenous communities, protect and conserve biodiversity, while keeping income in destination countries.

It is collaborative platforms like these that accords us the opportunity to share best practices and lessons to transform these goals into reality.

The summary of today’s debate will emphasize those best practices and recommended actions that were forthcoming during the discussions and will be shared with you all.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all of today’s speakers, Ministers, and all participants.

I also extend warm appreciation to Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili and his team for helping to make today’s event

possible, and for bringing tourism to the heart of the UN – a first in 20 years.

Likewise, I express appreciation to UN Environment, UNDP and UNCTAD for their support.

Excellencies, let us take forward the momentum generated here today to undertake concrete actions within our respective spheres of influence.

We have this once in a generation opportunity to transform tourism for people, plant, and prosperity; let us seize the opportunity to make the tourism sector a part of the solution and not the problem.

I thank you

United Nations

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The 7 Most Controversial Travel Opinions

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Armrest allocation, clapping when the plane lands, and using the recline button—these controversial travel topics are guaranteed to start a full-on debate between frequent flyers.

Are you in agreement or are you misaligned with most of the traveling public? Travel site Kayak conducted a poll of the most hotly debated travel opinions to determine the Unspoken Rules of Air Travel .

Here’s what the survey found:

Cutting the Line Is Ok

About to miss your flight? According to Kayak’s survey, 57 percent of travelers will have sympathy for you (and will let you cut the line) if it’s the difference between making it to the gate in time or being left stranded.

Unattended Children Should Be Banned

Letting your kids run around the airport (or plane) freely in the hopes they’ll burn off some energy? 90 percent of respondents ask that you rein them in, voting that children shouldn’t be left unattended during travel.

Would You Pay Extra for a Kid-Free Flight?

Don’t Stand on the Moving Sidewalk

If your personal pet peeve is people who ride the moving sidewalks at the airport (rather than walking on it), you’re not alone—57 percent of travelers feel the same way.

Just remember, moving sidewalks are a huge help to people with mobility issues—so try to extend some grace and patience when travelers aren’t walking on them.

Clapping When the Plane Lands Is Annoying

Your fellow passengers ask you to hold your applause when the plane touches down. A close margin of 51 percent of flyers thinks this measure of appreciation is “pointless” because the pilots can’t hear you.

The Middle Seat Doesn’t Get Both Armrests

Close up of person resting arms on armrest in the middle seat of an airplane row

A surprising 57 percent of passengers have no sympathy for the person stuck in the middle seat, saying the armrests are up for anyone to grab.

Should You Recline Your Seat on an Airplane?

Reclining Your Seat is Acceptable

Go ahead and lean back ( just please, do it the right way ) next time you fly. A vast majority (88 percent) believe that the recline button is offered for a reason.

Leave Your Socks On

Close up of woman in socks putting her feet up on a row of airplane seats

Fellow flyers don’t want to see (or smell) your bare feet. Seventy-six percent of passengers voted that people should keep their socks on during a flight.

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

Governing bodies, general assembly.

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The General Assembly is the principal gathering of the World Tourism Organization.

It meets every two years to approve the budget and programme of work and to debate topics of vital importance to the tourism sector. Every four years it elects a Secretary-General. The General Assembly is composed of Full Members and Associate Members. Affiliate Members and representatives of other international organizations participate as observers.

The World Committee on Tourism Ethics is a subsidiary organ of the General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the supreme organ of UNWTO. Its ordinary sessions are held every two years and is attended by delegates from UNWTO Full and Associate Members, as well as representatives from UNWTO Affiliate Members.

It is considered the most important global meeting of senior tourism officials and high-level representatives of the private sector.

Sessions, documents and decisions:

What next for travel and tourism? Here's what the experts say

In many countries, more than 80% of travel and tourism spending actually comes from the domestic market. Image: Unsplash/Surface

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In 2020 alone, the travel and tourism sector lost $4.5 trillion and 62 million jobs globally.
But as the world recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel and tourism can bounce back as an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient sector.
Two experts highlight some of the key transformations in the sector going forward during the World Economic Forum's Our World in Transformation series.

The Travel & Tourism sector was one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving not only companies but also tourism-driven economies severely affected by shutdowns, travel restrictions and the disappearance of international travel.

In 2020 alone, the sector lost $4.5 trillion and 62 million jobs, impacting the living standards and well-being of communities across the globe. Moreover, the halt in international travel gave both leisure and business travellers the chance to consider the impact of their choices on the climate and environment.

Amid shifting demand dynamics and future opportunities and risks, a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient travel and tourism sector can be - and needs to be - built.

The World Economic Forum's Travel & Tourism Development Index 2021 finds that embedding inclusivity, sustainability and resilience into the travel and tourism sector as it recovers, will ensure it can continue to be a driver of global connectivity, peace and economic and social progress.

We spoke to Sandra Carvao , Chief of Market Intelligence and Competitiveness at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and Liz Ortiguera , CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association in Thailand (PATA), and asked them to highlight some of the key areas of risk and opportunity in the sector during an episode of the World Economic Forum's Our World in Transformation series.

Have you read?

Travel & tourism development index 2021: rebuilding for a sustainable and resilient future, towards resilience and sustainability: travel and tourism development recovery, how can we really achieve sustainability in the travel sector, what are some of the top global trends you're witnessing currently in the travel and tourism sector.

Liz Ortiguera: Given the extended lockdown that we had on travel with the pandemic, vacation for friends and relatives (VFR) is now a high priority for people who haven’t been in touch for a long time thanks to the pandemic. So, people are reconnecting. And that kind of links to the second trend, which is multi-purpose or blended travel. Never before, particularly now that we can connect digitally through Zoom, has the ability to work from anywhere enabled travellers to cover multiple purposes, like visits with friends and multiple business trips. So, we'll find that the duration of travel and the length of stay is longer. And third is the continued high focus on safety and wellness which is top of mind for travellers due to the pandemic. All travel is wellness-related now.

Sandra Carvao: I think there is a bigger concern with sustainability, which is very welcome in our industry. Consumers, particularly the younger generation, are much more aware of the impact they have, not only on the environment but also socially and on the communities they live in. We've also seen an increase in expenditure per trip, so I think people are very eager to go outside, and they're staying longer. And on the other side, I think there are some challenges: we’re seeing a rise in late bookings because restrictions can change at short notice and that’s having an impact on the decisions of travellers. This is putting pressure on the industry in terms of planning and anticipating fluctuations in demand.

Social media surveys have shown that travellers who have immersive experiences are more likely to post about them, which is good for the industry.

What is community-based tourism and why is it important?

Sandra Carvao: One of the positive impacts of the pandemic is that people are looking for local experiences and are spending more time with communities. So, the concept of community-based tourism is obviously one that puts the community at the core of every development, ensuring that it's engaged and empowered and that it benefits. At the UNWTO, we worked with the G20 and the Saudi presidency back in 2020 and produced a framework for tourism development in communities, which states that communities need to be part of the planning and management of tourism activities. We need to go beyond traditional definitions of community to a point where the industry leans on partnerships between the public and private sectors and communities.

Liz Ortiguera: In July 2022, PATA is hosting a destination-marketing forum and one of the key themes is community-based tourism. The purpose is really to put the community and authenticity-in-culture activities at the heart of the travel experience. There are benefits for all stakeholders. One is that travellers can have an authentic experience. They're not in overcrowded, touristic locations and they experience something new and unique within the community. These experiences are designed in partnership with communities who get the benefit of financial inclusion, and if activities are designed properly, the reinforcement of their cultural heritage. Governments also engage in economic development more broadly across countries. Another interesting trend is creative tourism, which means you create an experience for tourists to participate in, like a dance lesson, or a cooking lesson. Social media surveys have shown that travellers who have these kinds of immersive experiences are more likely to post about them online and that's good for the industry.

It is important to emphasize that virtual experiences, while they are a fun tool, can never replace visiting a destination.

How is technology and innovation helping to leverage cultural resources?

Sandra Carvao: One interesting trend we’re seeing is that more and more people are booking trips directly, so communities need to be supported to digitize their systems. Education and upskilling of communities are important so that they can leverage digital platforms to market themselves. From the tourists’ perspective, it is important to emphasize that virtual experiences, while they are a fun tool, can never replace visiting a destination.

Liz Ortiguera: People have been living virtually for more than two years. Amazing innovations have emerged, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, and all kinds of applications and tools. But the important thing is the experience. The destination. Real-world experiences need to remain front and centre. Technology tools should be viewed as enablers and not the core experience. And when it comes to staff, technology can really democratize education. There’s an opportunity to mobilize a mobile-first approach for those who are on the frontlines, or out in the field, and can’t easily access computers, but need to get real-time information.

How is the sector dealing with labour shortages and re-employment of the workforce?

Liz Ortiguera: Labour shortages are much more dynamic in North America and in Europe. But it’s having a knock-on effect on Asia. If, for example, their air carriers are limited by staff and they have to cancel flights, which we're very much seeing out of Europe, seating capacity then becomes a limiting factor in the recovery of Asia Pacific. That's the main constraint right now. And compounding that is the rising price of fuel. But people in the Asia Pacific are keen to get reemployed.

Sandra Carvao: Labour shortages are a priority for the sector in countries around the world. Many workers left the sector during the pandemic and the uncertainty that surrounded the measures taken to contain it left many people unsure of whether the sector would recover. It is time to address things like conditions, scheduling, and work/life balance, all things which have been top of mind for workers during the pandemic. As the sector recovers, we need time to bring new hires on board and to train them to take over where those who switched jobs left off.

Are we seeing a growing trend towards domestic tourism?

Sandra Carvao: We’re talking about 9 billion people travelling within their own countries. And in many countries, for example in Germany, more than 80% of the tourism spending actually comes from the domestic market, similarly in countries like Spain and even smaller economies. Whenever it's possible to travel again, domestic markets tend to be more resilient. They kick off first mostly due to perceptions of safety and security issues. As the world economy recovers from the pandemic, there is a good opportunity for nations to rethink their strategy, look at the domestic market in a different way, and leverage different products for domestic tourists.

When it comes to sustainable tourism, how quickly could we mainstream eco-friendly modes of transportation?

Sandra Carvao: Transport is one of the key contributors to energy impacts and tourism. But it's also important that we look at the whole value chain. The UNWTO together with the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme just launched the Glasgow Declaration, which includes green commitments from destinations and companies. We’re seeing a strong movement in the airline industry to reduce emissions. But I think, obviously, technological developments will be very important. But it's also very important to look at market shifts. And we can't forget small islands and developing states that rely on long-haul air travel. It’s important to make sure that we invest in making the problem much less impactful.

Liz Ortiguera: 'Travel and tourism' is such a broad encompassing term that it’s not fair to call it an industry: it is actually a sector of many industries. The pandemic taught us how broad the impact of the sector is in terms of sustainability. There's a big movement in terms of destination resilience, which is the foundation for achieving sustainability in the journey to net-zero. We now have standards to mitigate that impact including meetings-and-events (MIE) standards and standards for tour operators. There are multiple areas within our industry where progress is being made. And I'm really encouraged by the fact that there is such a focus not just within the sector but also among consumers.

This interview was first done at the World Economic Forum's studios in Geneva as part of 'Our World in Transformation' - a live interactive event series for our digital members. To watch all the episodes and join future sessions, please subscribe here .

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English Discussion on Tourism

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