Community-Based Tourism: Empowering Local HostsCommunity-Based Tourism: Empowering Local Hosts As travelers seek immersive and meaningful experiences, community-based tourism (CBT) emerges as a transformative model that empowers local communities and ensures their equitable share in the tourism industry. Contrary to the misconception that tourism income often bypasses local hands, CBT empowers communities by placing them in control of their own livelihoods through tourism. While traditional tourism may result in “tourism leakage,” whereby foreign-owned businesses and supply chains reap the majority of profits, CBT ensures that tourism benefits are retained within the host community. Local people own and operate tourism initiatives, creating jobs, business opportunities, and fostering sustainable economic growth. From humble farm stays where travelers share the local way of life to established local operators that invest in infrastructure, health, and education, CBT encompasses a diverse range of operations. These initiatives empower local communities to determine their own tourism trajectory, ensuring that tourism aligns with their values, traditions, and conservation goals. By embracing CBT, both travelers and host communities reap reciprocal benefits. Travelers gain unparalleled access to authentic cultural experiences and a deeper understanding of local perspectives, while host communities experience tangible economic and social improvements. CBT fosters mutual respect, cultural exchange, and a sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.
Curious travellers looking for insightful and enriching adventures often turn to experiences rooted in different cultures and communities. After all, what better way to get a feel for somewhere than by learning more about the local way of life or discovering age-old traditions? It is likely that many of us consider ourselves richer in knowledge and our understanding of the world thanks to our travel experiences. But have you ever wondered how much the host communities gain from welcoming tourists?
In 2014, a report by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation found that ‘tourism leakage’ – whereby earned money is funnelled away from locals – was as high as 70% in Thailand and 80% in Caribbean countries. This is largely thanks to the abundance of foreign-owned operators, hotels and international supply chains in both countries.
It showed that, contrary to widespread belief, the income from tourism often doesn’t remain within the communities in which it’s spent. Ten years on from this report, it’s still the case in many destinations that those who host us benefit very little. The exception to this are those places that have adopted community-based tourism (CBT), which is becoming a vital resource for local people.
According to the Journal of Tourism and HospitalityCBT refers to tourism initiatives owned and run by local people that enable the delivery of wider community benefits. This might be through creating jobs and business opportunities within the community or putting local people in control of their own livelihoods through tourism. It can range from the humblest operation – such as a farm stay where travellers reside with families and share their way of life – to local operators that employ residents and invest in infrastructure, health and education.
