World Tourism Day is celebrated on September 27th every year. It is a day that is dedicated to celebrating the importance and impact of tourism on the global economy, environment, and society. This day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1980 and has been celebrated annually ever since.
Why is World Tourism Day Important?
Tourism plays a significant role in many countries’ economies, contributing to job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and economic growth. In addition, tourism can help promote cultural understanding and appreciation between different nations. World Tourism Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of tourism in promoting sustainable development and preserving cultural heritage.
The Theme of World Tourism Day
Each year, World Tourism Day has a different theme that highlights various aspects of tourism. The themes are chosen by the UNWTO to reflect current issues and trends in the tourism industry. Some recent themes include:
2019: “Tourism and Jobs: A Better Future for All”
This theme focused on the role of tourism in creating employment opportunities, particularly for women and youth.
2018: “Tourism and the Digital Transformation”
This theme explored how technology is changing the way people travel and how destination marketing organizations can leverage digital tools to promote their destinations effectively.
2020: “Tourism and Rural Development”
This theme highlighted the role of tourism in supporting rural communities by providing jobs and economic opportunities while preserving local culture.
Celebrating World Tourism Day
On World Tourism Day, various activities are organized around the world to celebrate this important day. These activities include seminars, conferences, cultural events, exhibitions, competitions, social media campaigns, among others.
Conclusion
World Tourism Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of tourism in promoting sustainable development and preserving cultural heritage. It is a day that celebrates tourism’s contribution to the global economy, environment, and society. We can all contribute to this celebration by traveling responsibly, supporting local communities, and preserving our cultural heritage.