World Tourism Day - Expanding Horizons through Words!

Every year, on September 27th, the world comes together to celebrate World Tourism Day. This special occasion invites us to reflect on the immense significance of tourism in fostering cultural exchange, economic growth, and global understanding.

Origin of World Tourism Day: -

The idea for World Tourism Day originated during the third session of the UNWTO General Assembly held in 1979 in Torremolinos, Spain. During this session, the members of the assembly proposed the establishment of a special day dedicated to promoting tourism globally.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-with-toy-airplane-on-world-map-3769138/

Why do we need to celebrate World Tourism Day?

Tourism serves as a bridge that connects diverse cultures, allowing people to immerse themselves in new environments, traditions, and perspectives. Through travel, we have the opportunity to appreciate and celebrate the richness and diversity of our global heritage.

Experiencing different languages, cuisines, customs, and art forms deepens our understanding of humanity, fostering tolerance, respect, and a sense of global citizenship.

Travel is an enriching experience that broadens our horizons and nurtures personal growth. Stepping out of our comfort zones and immersing ourselves in unfamiliar surroundings cultivates resilience, adaptability, and an open-mindedness that transcends borders.

Photo by Ryutaro Tsukata: https://www.pexels.com/photo/japanese-lantern-in-autumn-garden-6249524/

How does language learning impact tourism, whether virtually or in person?

Language is the universal tool for communication. By learning the language of a particular destination, we bridge communication gaps and foster connections with the local community. Whether it's asking for directions, ordering food, or engaging in conversations, speaking the local language enhances our ability to interact, understand, and connect with locals on a more personal level.

Language learning during our travels not only enriches the experience but also creates lasting connections. When we communicate in the local language, we demonstrate our willingness to engage and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Locals often appreciate the effort made to learn their language and respond with warmth and hospitality.

Photo by Porapak Apichodilok: https://www.pexels.com/photo/globe-on-sand-346696/

Things to do on World Tourism Day: -

Explore a famous landmark or tourist attraction in your own city or region.

Celebrate the diversity of world cultures by indulging in international cuisine. Allow your taste buds to embark on a culinary journey, savouring flavours and spices from around the globe.

Take this opportunity to share your travel experiences and insights with others or participate in travel forums to inspire and inform fellow travellers.

On World Tourism Day, let us recognize the profound impact of language learning on our travel experiences. By embracing the languages of the places we visit, we unlock doors to authentic cultural encounters, enhance communication, and create meaningful connections.

So, let us embark on our travels with an open mind, a desire to learn languages, and an eagerness to connect with the people and cultures we encounter along the way!