The Impact of Tourism on Culture and Challenges for the Host Country

Abstract

In Georgia, as in other developing countries tourism has positive and negative importance and influence. It may affect the national cultural values, and in order to get economic benefits, the host may temporarily forget the so-called "disguised arrogance", which is typical for a local, Georgian resident based on the perception of the uniqueness of his own culture and give priority to the cultural values characteristic of a tourist. Today, the tourism sphere in Georgia is quite highly paid one. Besides, it allows culture to be not only an aesthetic resource, but also beneficial. Interaction between these two spheres and proper management promotes the direct and indirect influence of culture on the economic potential of Georgian regions. Under direct impact we mean cultural institutions (such as cinemas, museums, theaters, concert halls, galleries, etc.) which bring the economic income, and under indirect, those events, which may have a greater influence because it contributes to social stability, population employment growth, the reduction of unemployment, and an increase in the well-being of the local population through the development of "associated professions" like transportation, catering, and more. Communication in the field of tourism increases relations between people of different backgrounds, reduces conflicts between cultures, instilling a sense of pride in local people in the need to preserve their cultural heritage and identity.