The Social and Cultural Impact of Tourism Resources Development
Ali Fouad Ksheish
Under the supervision of Asst. Lect. Zainab Muslim Al-Moussawi
Tourism contributes to learning about the cultures of different peoples through communication and social mobility, which results in the mingling of different peoples in specific tourist areas. This increases mutual understanding and respect, fosters a convergence of values and customs, creates a spirit of unity among communities, and bridges cultural gaps between them. Furthermore, tourism enables people to learn about their past and history. Here, the role of tourism planning in protecting the historical and cultural heritage of local peoples in many countries around the world is highlighted through several aspects, perhaps the most important of which are (Diab, 2015: 30):
1. Preserving historical and cultural heritage and distinctive contemporary architectural styles.
2. Reviving traditional arts, events, traditional industries, and some aspects of local life.
3. Building tourism habits through various cultural benefits and facilities, such as theaters, as well as organizing festivals and cultural events, as they are charitable elements of domestic and international tourism.
4. Supporting cultural exchange between communities (tourists and residents).