What Is Internal and External Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Tourism is an exciting and growing industry that has been around for centuries. It has become an integral part of our lives, and we cannot imagine living without it.

Tourism is broadly classified into two categories: Internal Tourism and External Tourism. In this article, we will discuss what these two terms mean and how they differ from each other.

Internal Tourism

Internal tourism refers to people traveling within their own country or region. It is also known as domestic tourism or inbound tourism. Internal tourism involves visiting attractions, sites, and destinations within your own country.

Internal tourism has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its lower costs and convenience. People prefer to explore their own country before heading overseas as it saves time and money while providing the opportunity to learn more about their own culture.

Some examples of internal tourism include visiting local museums, attending cultural festivals, exploring national parks, or taking a road trip across the country.

External Tourism

External tourism is the opposite of internal tourism. It refers to people traveling outside their home country or region for leisure purposes. It is also known as international tourism or outbound tourism.

External tourism involves traveling to different countries or regions for sightseeing, adventure activities, relaxation, or business purposes. External tourists visit places that are not accessible in their home countries such as exotic beaches, historical sites, cultural events, and natural wonders.

Some examples of external tourism include visiting Paris to see the Eiffel Tower or exploring India’s Taj Mahal.

Differences between Internal and External Tourism

There are several differences between internal and external tourism that make them unique in their ways:

  • Distance: The primary difference between internal and external tourism is the distance involved. Internal tourists do not have to travel far from their homes while external tourists have to travel long distances.
  • Culture: Internal tourism involves exploring one’s own culture while external tourism involves exploring different cultures.
  • Language: Internal tourists speak the same language as the locals while external tourists may face language barriers.
  • Cost: Internal tourism is less expensive than external tourism as there are no visa requirements or international travel costs involved.

In conclusion,

Internal and external tourism are two distinct types of tourism that cater to different demographics. While internal tourism allows people to explore their own country and culture, external tourism provides an opportunity to explore new cultures, cuisines, and traditions. Both types of tourism have their advantages and disadvantages, but they offer unique experiences that can enrich one’s life.