Tourism managed by locals is often considered to be better than tourism managed by big online travel agencies (OTAs) for several reasons:
- Economic benefits: When tourism is managed by locals, a greater portion of the economic benefits generated by tourism stay within the local community. This can include job creation and increased income for local businesses. In contrast, when tourism is managed by big OTAs, a larger portion of the economic benefits may be siphoned off by the OTA, leaving less for the local community.
- Cultural preservation: Local communities have a vested interest in preserving their culture, heritage, and natural resources. When tourism is managed by locals, they are more likely to ensure that tourism development is done in a way that respects and preserves these elements. In contrast, big OTAs may prioritize profit over cultural preservation.
- Responsiveness to local needs: Local communities are more attuned to the needs and concerns of the people who live there. When tourism is managed by locals, they are more likely to take these needs and concerns into account and make decisions that are in the best interest of the community. In contrast, big OTAs may be more focused on maximizing profits and may not be as responsive to local needs.
- Personalized experience: Local communities can offer a more authentic and personalized travel experience. They have a better understanding of the local culture, customs, and attractions and can provide travelers with a more in-depth and unique travel experience.
- Collective governance: Tourism managed by locals is more likely to be guided by a collective governance approach that involves multiple stakeholders in the decision-making and management of tourism. This helps to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are taken into account and that decisions are made with the long-term sustainability of the destination in mind.
In summary, tourism managed by locals is considered to be better than tourism managed by big OTAs because it can lead to greater economic
benefits for the local community, better cultural preservation, responsiveness to local needs, more personalized travel experiences, and a more inclusive approach to governance. Additionally, Local communities are more likely to promote sustainable tourism practices that respect the environment and the local culture, which can lead to long-term benefits for both the community and travelers.
Furthermore, when tourism is managed by locals, it can help to empower local communities and create a sense of ownership and pride among residents, which can lead to greater buy-in and support for tourism development. This can ultimately lead to more sustainable and responsible tourism in the destination.
It’s worth mentioning that some big OTA’s are trying to adapt and change their model, to be more sustainable and responsible, by promoting local and independent hotels, and by implementing responsible tourism policies. However, the tourism industry is still dominated by big OTA’s and the change is not happening as fast as it should.
In conclusion, tourism managed by locals can offer a more authentic, sustainable and responsible travel experience, while also providing greater economic and social benefits for the local community. It is important to support and promote local-based tourism as it can help to create a more equitable and sustainable tourism industry.
