Socio-cultural impacts of tourism in third world countries: a case study of Nepal : submitted to Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Lincoln University as partial fulfilment of Post Graduate Diploma in Parks, Recreation and Tourism

Abstract

Traditionally, most of the world's people were dependent upon agriculture. In the early development of agriculture it is assumed that "survival" was the primary motive. As people developed better equipment and facilities so too did they increase their living standards. Fulfilment of one need is often the origin of another. During this period, society was ever changing. Change is an on going feature of all societies.

Tourism in the third world is often regarded often a principal source of foreign currency. Social and cultural impacts of tourism have been neglected in order to gain economic benefit. Advantages of tourism appear to be dominated by economic considerations. Tourism is not only an economic phenomenon but has social implications as well. The relationship of hosts and guests is an important aspect of this. Mutual understanding between hosts and guests is an essential aspect of tourism, particularly in the third world countries.

This study looks at some social aspects of tourism. When discussing the social impact of tourism, it is appropriate to discuss some basic theoretical aspects of sociology. The first chapter deals with the relevant concepts of sociology including social change, social impact and cultural change.

The second chapter, provides a definition of third world countries, and examines characteristics of these countries. Social structures of the third world countries and their resources are discussed.

Chapter three starts with a definition of tourism, types of tourism and negative and positive impacts of tourism. In chapter four social consequences of tourism, such as host / guest encounters and the social impacts of tourism are discussed.

Chapter five highlights some cultural events which may be impacted by tourism, such as arts, crafts and festivals and the benefits and costs of these impacts. Similarly, chapter six discusses tourism in the third world and its economic and social consequences.

The seventh chapter is particularly concerned with the social impacts of tourism in Nepal, as a case study. Social impacts of tourism in two important areas, the Sagarmatha National Park area, and the Chitwan National Park area are chosen for the study.

Finally, chapter eight offers some suggestions and recommendations. These may be useful for considering community aspects of tourism. Chapter nine is the conclusion of the study.