Nowadays, international tourism is the biggest industry in the world. Unfortunately, international tourism creates tension rather than understanding between people from different cultures. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

International tourism is now considered the largest industry in the world. However, many think that it does not foster mutual understanding between people of different nations, but causes tensions to arise. Although problems associated with international tourism are inevitable, I would argue that this industry plays an important role in promoting peace among countries. On the one hand, I agree that international tourism, in some cases, could lead to anger between people of different cultural backgrounds. The truth is, every country possesses its own indigenous culture, beliefs, mind-sets and norms that foreign tourists are not aware of. Ignorance and carelessness sometimes causes tourists to behave in ways which fail to respect local customs or religious values. For example, kissing someone on the cheek is a common greeting etiquette in many European countries, while in many Asian cultures it may only be considered appropriate among family members or lovers and thus, such gesture can be considered an offence or sexual harassment. This is just one example where international tourists may create irritation in cross-cultural interaction. On the other hand, I believe that tourism, if conducted with respect for the traditions, practices and customs of the host country, will be a great movement that contributes to international goodwill and enriches friendship between nations. In fact, overseas travel gives tourists around the world a glimpse into other cultures by allowing them to experience different ways of life, discovering new cuisine or visiting cultural heritages. That helps tourists to learn, understand and respect another culture’s values, thus bridge the cultural gap. When tourism brings together people of different cultures and regions, it can foster peace and friendship among them. In conclusion, despite some problems, I am of the opinion that international tourism can enhance local cultural awareness and hence helps in building better understanding and peaceful relations between people of different nations.