What is ‘Tourism Leakage’?
‘Tourism Leakage’ is the phenomenon whereby the majority of money made through tourism leaks out of the local economy.
It’s not uncommon that 90% of the tourism dollars spent by travellers leak out of the actual destination. For every $100 spent by a tourist on a holiday to a developing country, only $5 remains in the host community.
So that’s a tourism leakage of 95% according to the figures published by the UN Atlas of the World.
A responsible travel blog advocating against ‘Tourism Leakage’
My responsible travel blog showcases local options in response to tourism leakage. Ensuring my money stays in the local host community is important to me. Why? Because it’s usually the host community that has to deal with the nuisances related to tourism. Issues like price inflation, water shortage, waste management, cultural and noise issues. I uphold values around equality which is what drives this passion of mine.
The best experiences come from staying with the locals. They come from learning about their life, culture and food. By asking the community curious questions like where to eat and what to visit will help you get the best out of a place. So, I hope my blog will offer you inspiration. I hope it will educate you on tourism leakage. And, I hope it will empower you to make the right choices.
Together we can minimise tourism leakage.
Latest responsible travel blog posts
Thailand, off the beaten track
Many travellers will have seen pictures of Kayan women wearing distinctive brass neck rings and heard of ‘show village’ travesties. Thanks to a joint partnership between the village of Huay Pu Keng (HPK) and Fair Tourism Foundation there is now an ethical and regenerative way to visit.
In this article Aye Muang one of the villagers very kindly took time out of his very busy schedule to share with us why he loves his village so much and why you should take the opportunity to visit.
Things to do in Quito
Meet Angelica and Christian owners of Terra Sur Travels a tour company based in Ecuador. In this interview they share their story and the best things to do in Quito.
Responsible travel for all
Now, more than ever, the social interaction and economic returns resulting from tourism worldwide can transform lives and destinations unlike ever before.
Here are some simple ways you can contribute to the lives of others and positively impact our incredible planet every time you pack your bags.
Things to do in Coonawarra
Meet Simon and Kerry Meares owners of Coonawarra Experiences in South Australia. With an unwavering passion for Coonawarra, they provide authentic and personalised tours. In this interview they share the best things to do in Coonawarra.
Kokoda Track walking tours and visiting PNG
Kokoda Track walking tours and visiting PNG Papua New Guinea and Kokoda Track walking tours first came on my radar when I walked the Great Wall of China to raise money for MS Australia in 2019. Their next fundraising adventure was to walk the Kokoda Track. Something I...
Why I won’t hurry back to Byron Bay
Waves crashing at Byron Bay Beach Byron Bay is a place that nature has been kind to. Gifted with timber, gold, world-class surf breaks, and mild temperatures. Coastal utopia where the sea doesn’t drop below a comfortable 18 degrees. Steeped in...
My 10 tips to reduce ‘tourism leakage’
1. Book direct
Booking sites take a %. So if you see something you like, get in touch directly and see if there is a way to book in person so that the owner gets 100%
2. Choose local
Find locally-owned restaurants and cafes instead of international food joints, restaurant chains or hotels. Source local produce from markets and independently owned stores. Purchase locally made souvenirs. And, always ask if the revenue will be going back into the local community.
3. Be inquisitive
Question, question, question! Spark up a conversation with locals at any opportunity. Ask them about attractions, places to eat, drink, visit, stay, about the history, the people and the stories behind them.
