Why Is 27 September World Tourism Day?

By Michael Ferguson

September 27th is celebrated as World Tourism Day every year. This day marks the celebration of the tourism industry and its importance in promoting global cultural exchange, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. In this article, we will explore the history behind World Tourism Day and why it is celebrated on September 27th.

History of World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day was first celebrated on September 27th, 1980. The day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) during its third General Assembly held in Torremolinos, Spain. The purpose of this day was to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values.

Why September 27th?

The reason why September 27th was chosen as World Tourism Day is that it coincides with the anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO’s Statutes on September 27th, 1970. These statutes served as a framework for global tourism policies and practices. Hence, September 27th became a significant date in the history of tourism.

Objectives of World Tourism Day

The main objective of celebrating World Tourism Day is to promote awareness among people about the role that tourism plays in driving economic growth and promoting sustainable development across different nations. It also aims to highlight social, cultural, political and environmental values associated with tourism activities.

Promoting Sustainable Development

Tourism can bring immense benefits to local communities by creating new job opportunities and boosting local economies. However, it can also have adverse effects on natural resources if not managed sustainably. Therefore, one of the key objectives of World Tourism Day is to promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities while preserving natural resources for future generations.

Encouraging Cultural Exchange

Tourism provides an opportunity for people to experience different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. This exchange of ideas and experiences fosters mutual understanding and promotes peace among nations. World Tourism Day encourages people to explore new destinations and engage with local communities to promote cultural exchange.

Highlighting the Importance of Tourism Industry

The tourism industry is one of the largest industries in the world, providing employment opportunities to millions of people globally. World Tourism Day highlights the economic importance of tourism and its contribution to job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and economic growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, World Tourism Day is celebrated every year on September 27th to raise awareness about the importance of tourism in promoting sustainable development, cultural exchange, and economic growth. By celebrating this day, we can encourage responsible tourism practices that benefit both local communities and the environment. So let’s take a moment on this day to appreciate the beauty and significance of global tourism.