Unit 4

Tourism's Impact



Lesson 17: Preserving Local Culture


"When you learn something from people or from a culture, you accept it as a gift and it is your lifelong commitment to preserve it and build on it." Yo-Yo Ma

With globalization and modern progress, many cultures around the globe are at risk of losing their culture. Is tourism the cause or can properly managed tourism, in fact, be the answer?


Watch the videos below for examples of cultural disappearance where tourism plays an important role.




For nearly 700 years, the shrimpers of Oostduinkerke, Belgium, have been training draft horses to help them pursue the local catch. Typically weighing more than 2,000 pounds, these horses are well suited to the task of carrying fisherman through the cold waters of the North Sea. Yet despite its historical importance, Oostduinkerke is the last place on Earth using this traditional form of fishing. Currently, just 19 or so fisherman continue the practice.

Watch the video on the left to learn more.





This second video focusses on "Whang-Od: The Last True Tattoo Artist"  from the Philippines. She still practices the ancient form of tattooing she first began at 15. You can learn about the pilgrimages modern travellers make for Whang-Od's tattoos, and how a new form of sustainable tourism is emerging which helps preserve local culture.

Watch the video on the left to learn more.









This final video was produced by Indigenous Tourism Canada. It focuses on the strength of connection between outdoor experiences and Indigenous cultural and history, highlighting Brenda Holder, owner of Mahikqan Trails and a member of the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation in Alberta, Canada.

Watch the left video to learn more.