News and Views

July 28, 2005
Ecotourism Gains Popularity

Once thought of as trips for activists, ecotourism has become popular with "responsible tourists who respect nature and the cultures of other peoples, and they are motivated to learn new things." Instead of spending money on luxury vacations, tourists are choosing to experience the first-hand realities of living in Southern or Eastern Europe and sharing the lifestyles and problems of local communities. While this type of tourism does not overshadow the traditional tourism of five-star hotels, there is hope that many more tourists are interested in learning about other cultures, environments, customs, and peoples. What better way to appreciate and respect diversity than to take an interest in understanding a multiplicity of cultures? Families can do more than the usual mindless summer vacation activities and instead enjoy learning about the world together.

Read more at: Inter Press Service News Agency