Every society has its own culture, tradition and behavioral patterns. Some people believe that visitors are bound to observe the cultural practices which are followed in a particular area whereas another group opines that the host nation should adjust with the customs and traditions of the guests.
The main argument in favor of guests upholding their culture is that a person may stay in a foreign country only for a short period. It will be difficult for a foreigner to follow the customs of another country immediately after he sets foot there, and by the time he is ready to adjust with the local practices he may have to leave that place.
Another reason to support this argument is that a person may visit different places during a short period. Hence it is not possible for him to follow all the customs and traditions practiced there. Expecting a foreigner to follow such practices wherever he goes is impractical.
Another argument is that as tourism is the main source of income for many nations. The tourists should be respected and their cultural practices should be held in high esteem. Imposing cultural do’s and don’ts might keep the tourists away.
On the flipside, one of the main benefits of traveling is to get a first hand knowledge about the people of different places and their life style. It can be achieved only by mingling with them and following their customs. Moreover, the host country’s cultural differences must be revered by the visitors.
In a nutshell, I am of the opinion that both the hosts and the guests have the responsibility to respect the cultures of each other. Instead of compelling one group to cope with the other, a mutual understanding has to be maintained.
Writer: Jacob
Nova English Campus, Near Cafe Coffee Day, Opp GNDU, Amritsar
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