Tourism —which has a significant impact on the reputation and economy of a tourist destination — attracts millions of travelers each year across the globe. Tourism has notably increased globally in the last several decades driven by several factors including improved transportation systems, increased disposable income and advancements in technology. According to multiple sources including the United Nations World Tourism Organization, there was a four percent increase in the number of international tourists (1.5 billion) across the world in 2019. Local tourists are also increasing globally. But many untoward incidents take place in tourism, which offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests and preferences.
Untoward happenings, which can not only disrupt travel plans, cause fear among tourists and kill tourists but also have a negative impact on the economy of the affected destinations, are definitely there in both local and international tourism. Accidents, terrorist attacks, kidnappings and robberies are some notable untoward incidents for tourists. Accidents and armed attacks can sometimes be transportation-related mishaps (bus accidents, train derailments, or plane crashes) and deadly armed attacks. The 2015 Sousse attack in Tunisia, where a gunman targeted tourists at the popular Port El Kantaoui tourist resort, led to the death of 38 tourists. Among others, thefts, scams, pickpocketing, physical assaults and harassment are some noteworthy untoward happenings. Additionally, many tourists face natural disasters including earthquakes and hurricanes and other untoward incidents including outbreaks of diseases. In the sudden eruption of the White Island volcano in New Zealand in 2019, a tour group was caught off guard and tragically lost several members.
But risks for untoward happenings are definitely more among international tourists compared to local tourists attributed to the level of familiarity with local culture, laws, regulations and several other factors. Local tourists have familiarity with environments and infrastructures and a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities, whereas international tourists are often unfamiliar with the surroundings and unaware of pertinent legalities, making them more vulnerable to accidents or mishaps. For instance, there have been reports of international tourists falling victim to theft, robbery and other crimes in popular tourist destinations including Brazil, Mexico and South Africa. Additionally, local tourists are often easier to handle in terms of communication and access to healthcare, whereas international tourists face difficulties in seeking help due to language barriers and several other factors.
Government, tourist operator-based and other steps have definitely been made to address the risk for tourists. There are practices of implementing stricter security protocols, increasing surveillance measures and conducting regular training exercises in many tourist spots. Additionally, there are efforts to improve communication systems and strengthen collaboration between different agencies and organizations in addressing untoward incidents to enhance preparedness and ensure a swift and effective response to any unforeseen events. Consequently, many tourist spots — in the event of accidents — have well-trained staff, medical facilities and other arrangements readily available to provide immediate assistance. But there are challenges including inadequate safety measures, a lack of proper training, poor infrastructure and outdated emergency response plans in many tourist places.
It is definitely desired that effective steps be taken to address untoward happenings. But it is crucial for the authorities to emphasize safety measures and crisis management steps to address any potential risks. Along with improved infrastructure, putting emphasis on preparedness and emergency evacuation with improved training is crucial for many tourist places to reduce many untoward accidents for tourists. In the 2019 White Island volcanic eruption, well-coordinated emergency services and effective communication led to the safety of tourists and facilitated timely evacuations. Additionally, proactive communication and collaboration between tourism stakeholders can help identify and mitigate any untoward incidents and foster a sense of trust and confidence among tourists in many countries.
Among other steps, it is crucial for tour operators to provide adequate safety equipment to tourists and regularly inspect facilities to minimize potential risks in tourism. Conducting thorough risk assessments before embarking on any activities, making sure that participants receive proper training and guidance and having experienced guides or instructors accompany them during their expeditions may also be helpful in reducing untoward incidents many times. Enhancing cultural exchange programs and providing multilingual information services can help overcome language barriers for many international tourists. But promoting awareness is also crucial for tour operators and tourists to reduce untoward incidents and bad tourism.
