Revenge Tourism fast tracks Global Tourism growth
The World Rural Tourism Conference staged in Huzhou China, Sri Lankan professional Dr Rohantha Athukorala addressing the delegates accross the world said that by the end of the year the world will reach to pre pandemic levels and the pace is been fast tracked due to Revenge Tourism in play.
Defining Revenge Tourism, the speaker said it is a phenomenon where people who are tired of following mundane routines in a home due to the lockdown, rush to travel to nearby destinations for a short break. Apparently some cities like Amsterdam has recently banned cruise ships docking in the city due to the pollution created because of high tourists traffic.
The speaker highlighted the need for countries to invest on the technique such as “Carrying Capacity studies” so that one can determine the Economic Carrying Capacity, Social Carrying Capacity and Environmental Capacity issues and opportunities so that the right balance can be achieved. This is critical to ensure that Tourism sustainability becomes operational than just a concept he voiced.
Dr Athukorala who led the UNDP funded carrying capacity study of Sigiriya Rock in Sri Lanka explained how the key decisions to economic development, social welfare and the environment was able to be made that included changing the times of opening and closing, promotion of the site globally and how it can give an identity to brand Tourism Sri Lanka. Sigiriya rock must come under an authority so that moneys earned from entrance fees can be Re invested on the development of the product. Currently the 4 billion rupee earned goes to the Central Cultural Fund which comes under the Treasury said the Dr Athukorala.
What many people forget is that the covid19 pandemic disrupted supply chains, hence most countries are challenged to meet the peoples needs. Visitors from other country adds pressure to the supply chain causing inflationary/political instability which are larger and pivotal implications that the tourism Industry must be sensitive said the Former Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism and Sri Lanka Export Development Board who has experience in the demand and supply chain development in a country.
The World Rural Tourism entry functions under PATA and focussed on the importance Of travelling to non urban places with low population that gives a traveller to connect with local communities, support them and immerse one self with the local culture.