Most tourism advocates support
the industry because it spurs "economic development."
That's fine, as far as it goes, but some people don't believe
the numbers, while others would gladly forgo the financial
incentives if they could "just have my old town back."
Civic Tourism
believes communities should "reframe" tourism's role:
view it as an enabler of healthy place-making, not
only an economic tool. That doesn't mean we neglect the economic argument. We add to it.
In addition to
economic development, tourism can help communities preserve
cultures, protect the environment, save historic districts,
encourage citizen participation, and, in general, foster a healthier
quality of life.
"Tourism Ruined My Town"
Many industry
critics argue that tourism does the opposite - that it ruins
"sense of place," that it's the problem. We're
suggesting tourism can be part of the solution.
Seeing tourism
in this light is consistent with contemporary development
policy, such as the New Economy or Creative Economy.
Civic Tourism
suggests three strategies for realizing the mission:
