World Tourism Day 2024: Tourism and Peace

The Theme of World Tourism Day 2024- “Tourism and Peace” is a theme that transcends economics and adventure. It calls to highlight the importance of tourism in ushering in understanding, tolerance, and peace among cultures, communities, and nations. Finally, at the core of this potential for transformation lies the hospitality industry as a stage and participant in creating peaceful connections among citizens of the world. What this year’s theme underlines is that tourism is not just business; it is a bridge toward global harmony and unity.

Tourism as a Diplomatic Avenue

Tourism works as an important source of diplomacy because it provides people with a method to connect on a more universal level than mere cultural and national boundaries. The travel to a new place confronts visitors not only with new geographies but also other ways of living, traditions, and values. This gives way for mutual understanding and eradication of these kinds of prejudices that seem to be the fuel for most of the conflicts. In this way, tourism becomes a powerful antidote for division, tolerance replacing division and curiosity.

This is very frequently done in the hospitality industry, which comprises hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and even vacation rentals. For instance, a traveller may be introduced to customary activities like the Japanese traditional tea ceremony or communal bathing at a ryokan, thereby gaining insight into an everyday living culture deeply rooted in peace and mindfulness. Equally, a tourist staying in a rural Indian homestay is engulfed in family warmth, bonding beyond borders. Such encounters plant the seeds of peace as people realize that despite many surface-level differences, there are common human values of hospitality, kindness, and respect-whose presence ties us all together.

The Hospitality Industry: Ambassadors of Peace

The hospitality industry can be viewed as a critical player in promoting peaceful relations between two cultures. Welcoming guests into a place that allows them to unwind, besides being introduced to new settings, makes hotels and resorts the backbone of cultural diplomacy. It is not simply about comfort in welcoming guests but creating an atmosphere wherein people understand each other and learn to trust each other. A tourist sipping wine and enjoying the warm hospitality of a boutique in Paris or of a safari lodge in Kenya is being taken care of from both the physical and the emotional planes. This allows them not only a place for experimentation with local cultures but also brings diversity in communities, through their subsequent learning from various lifestyles.

The hospitality industry also plays a crucial role in stabilising and redeveloping regions after some calamity or period of struggle. Tourism can be an important reconstruction tool because it can bring life, which helps generate economic and social momentum in the local community. For example, rebuilding tourism after conflicts is an important lifeline for countries coming out of war, such as Rwanda. National parks hosting endangered mountain gorillas bring international tourism to some locations with jobs in the local economies and the ability to coexist between human and wildlife neighbours peacefully. This does not only boost the local economy but promises, the promise that peace brings opportunity.

Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: The Way to Peace

Another important feature of the tourism industry’s role is peace promotion. When responsible tourism is successful, it saves the environment and also provides more meaningful enjoyable experiences between visitors and destinations. Eco-friendly resorts such as those in Costa Rica or Maldives which are to target conserving natural ecosystems, tourists use to enjoy nature in a manner that promotes respect for the environment and the locals.

The stronger bonds are even made through community-based tourism whereby tourists stay with a family or participate in local culture. A classic example of this type of tourism is trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas. Mostly, these trekkers spend nights in the teahouses of the local families and so get to know the very intimate details of the local life. Initiatives in responsible tourism foster stewardship and solidarity, which means that tourists leave not only with memories but also a sense of responsibility for the cultures and environments that they have encountered. The sense of global citizenship promotes peace by creating traveller advocates for the places and people they visit.

Post-COVID Tourism: Healing Divides

The COVID-19 pandemic has paralysed the global tourism industry, but paradoxically, it underlines just how travel is an important need for connecting people. In an isolation-driven world, the lost opportunities in tourism only fueled more separation and lack of understanding. The recovery of the industry appears to be initiated during this World Tourism Day 2024 to heal what was exacerbated during the COVID pandemic-the differences among humans.

Passed through the toughest test of adversities, hospitality finally sees the road ahead-in stronger and more conscious activities that promote peace. Into former haunts of luxury and leisure are areas where the guests can reconnect with the world. Now, borders open again in wide, welcoming arms, which now view every guest as making a contributory effort to the United Nations. The epidemic has succeeded in putting across the message that tourism is not only concerning the revival of economies but also concerning reconnecting people, and it creates opportunities for mutual understanding and peace.

Cultural Festivals: The Embodiment of Peaceful Co-existence

An indispensable component of tourism is cultural festivals. Such events offer opportunities for peaceful communication. Activities include Rio Carnival in Brazil, Diwali in India, and cherry blossom viewing in Japan, which unify people from all walks in society to appreciate differences. Such festivals hence celebrate the fact that sharing of the same space by different cultures is peaceful as the locals and visitors tend to collaborate during such events. Service providers such as hotels organize cultural events or restaurants provide local cuisine during festivals; they play a role in the setup of cross-cultural dialogue and learning.

This World Tourism Day 2024 presents an opportunity to clearly point out how tourism plays a very key role in ensuring global peace. The hospitality industry, through the concept of cultural exchange, sustainability, and responsible tourism elements, also plays an important role in this process. In this way, tourism can bring people together from different parts of the world and create a sense of unity and cross-border understanding that promotes a more peaceful and harmonious global community. As we walk further, the theme “Tourism and Peace” reminds us not only of a discovery journey but also of a journey on the way to a more peaceful and connected world.

Industry Leaders’ Thoughts on World Tourism Day 2024

• Pranav Dangi, Founder and CEO, The Hosteller

Travel has the unique power to break down cultural barriers, promote empathy, and foster meaningful connections between people from diverse backgrounds. At The Hosteller, we believe that travel isn’t just about visiting places; it’s about immersing oneself in the local culture, living among communities, and gaining firsthand experience of different ways of life. This cultural immersion allows travellers to appreciate and respect diverse customs, traditions, and perspectives.

By creating shared spaces where travellers from across the world come together, our hostels serve as platforms for intercultural dialogue and exchange. From participating in local festivals and engaging in deep conversations with fellow backpackers to supporting local businesses and artisans, our guests are constantly engaging in a process of learning and mutual respect. These experiences create lasting cross-cultural bonds, contributing to a more inclusive and compassionate global community.

• Dharamveer Singh Chouhan, Co-Founder and CEO of Zo World

As we celebrate World Tourism Day, we are reminded of how travel has the power to transform us. It’s more than just getting from one place to another— it’s about the connections we make, the cultures we embrace, the stories we carry with us, and the community we strive for. Today, with Zo World, we aim to push boundaries by blending innovation with hospitality, creating places where global communities come together. At Zo World, we believe in creating spaces where every journey is not just an escape, but an opportunity to grow, learn, and build lasting connections. We further envision redefining travel as a shared experience that brings communities closer, transcending borders and fostering deeper human connections.

• Naresh Rawal- Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing- Resorts World Cruises 

On Tourism Day, we are reminded of the ability to experience joy in simple ways brought to our lives through traveling. It is more than just visiting new sites and destinations; it is living an experience that takes us out of a normal plodding routine, expands the horizon of what is possible within our lives, and connects us with the world in meaningful ways. Travel provides us with lots of stories to tell, memories to enjoy, and an increased reflection on the beauty that surrounds us. In many ways, it has become an integral part of living a wholehearted life.
Cruising adds another level to the experience. There’s magic to this mode of travel, especially on open seas. There is a feel to open voyages, where adventure traverses and touches peace along the way. And Resorts World Cruises embodies that spirit, offering travellers not destinations but a way to experience the world in comfort and style. You can enjoy a meal with your loved ones, indulge in world-class entertainment, indulge in spa treatments, or indulge in retail therapy with some of the most renowned fashion brands on board.
So let us celebrate travel today, not just for where it might take us, but also for how it makes our lives richer and closer to the world and ourselves.

• Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts

On this World Tourism Day, we are reminded that sustainability is not just an environmental imperative, but a vital pathway to peace. At The Fern Hotels & Resorts, we wholeheartedly believe that embracing eco-friendly practices and fostering community engagement can create a harmonious future where resources are shared responsibly and preserved for generations to come.

Our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint through initiatives like energy-efficient lighting, in-house water bottling, and solar energy usage reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship. By actively involving our employees and local communities in sustainable practices—such as clean-up drives and waste segregation—we nurture a sense of collective responsibility that strengthens local ties and promotes peaceful coexistence.

Furthermore, our sustainable guest room amenities encourage travellers to adopt a mindful approach to tourism, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and global unity. Together, through these small yet impactful actions, we can ensure a greener, more peaceful world where prosperity and harmony go hand in hand. Let us continue to champion sustainability in hospitality as a catalyst for positive change and a bridge to a brighter future.

• Ashok Vashist, Founder & CEO, WTiCabs

On the occasion of World Tourism Day, WTicabs celebrates the resilience and growth of global tourism, now at 96% of pre-pandemic levels. While we reflect on our contribution to this recovery, our focus remains on providing seamless travel experiences across diverse destinations. From bustling city centres to remote, underexplored locales, WTicabs ensures that tourists start and end their journeys comfortably and sustainably.

Our comprehensive airport transfer services, powered by a fleet of eco-friendly vehicles and advanced route optimization, not only reduce carbon footprints but also connect travellers to the heart of local cultures. We’re proud to facilitate access to emerging destinations, supporting the trend towards authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that today’s travellers seek.

As international tourism receipts show strong growth, with some countries doubling their 2019 figures, WTicabs remains committed to sustainable practices. Our aim is to foster responsible tourism that benefits local communities and preserves destinations for future generations. This World Tourism Day, we reaffirm our dedication to making every journey, whether to a major city or a hidden gem, an environmentally responsible and culturally enriching experience.

• Anupam Vig, General Manager of Finnair in India

On World Tourism Day, we are reminded of the significant role tourism plays in creating jobs and promoting cultural exchange. Tourism offers communities the opportunity to share their unique stories, traditions, and landscapes, fostering understanding and connection between diverse cultures and societies.

However, we must also recognize that aviation emissions contribute to climate change. To continue enjoying the social and economic benefits that flying brings, we need to reduce the fossil carbon emissions from our operations. At Finnair, our vision for the future is clear: to accelerate aviation’s transition away from fossil fuels. This year, our contribution to solving the climate challenge of aviation took an important step forward as we submitted our new climate target for validation to Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

We believe that responsible tourism not only drives economic growth but also strengthens local communities and preserves the rich heritage we all share. By encouraging respectful travel and cultural exchange, we can contribute to a more connected and understanding world.

• Ravi Reddy, Director Software Engineering, Sabre India

Tourism, traditionally seen as a means of leisure and recreation, has a deep potential to promote peace and understanding among people. At the heart of this potential lies not only hospitality but also the growing influence of travel technology. The integration of technology into the tourism industry has revolutionized how people experience travel, bridging cultural gaps, driving economic growth, and fostering connections in ways that were previously unimaginable.

One of the key ways technology enhances tourism’s ability to foster peace is by facilitating cultural exchange. Online booking platforms, virtual tours, and translation apps make it easier for travellers to access destinations they might not have considered before. This increased accessibility allows people to immerse themselves in unfamiliar cultures, traditions, and perspectives from the comfort of their homes or through well-planned trips. By breaking down language barriers, connecting travellers with local guides through apps, and offering personalized experiences via AI.

Moreover, technology plays a vital role in driving economic development, particularly in regions affected by conflict or poverty. Platforms like online booking and online marketplaces enable local businesses to tap into the global tourism market, creating jobs and income streams for communities. By harnessing travel technology, even the smallest businesses in remote areas can reach international travellers, empowering local communities and promoting sustainable tourism. This economic uplift can also help remediate social unrest and create a stable environment for peace and development.

From AI-powered customer service chatbots to seamless check-ins using mobile apps, technology helps provide more personalized, efficient, and enjoyable experiences for tourists. Additionally, advancements AI/ML and IoT are poised to enhance operational efficiency and deliver tailored guest services. The rise in usage of smart devices/voice activated assistants in hotels and resorts are revolutionizing the guest experience.

• Arun K Chittilappilly, MD, Wonderla Holidays

Tourism and hospitality play a huge role in bringing people together, offering opportunities for shared experiences and cultural exchanges. At Wonderla, we believe every visitor’s journey helps connect diverse communities and foster respect and understanding. Experiencing different cultures not only enriches our lives but also helps us grow empathy and form deeper connections with others.

On this World Tourism Day, we celebrate how tourism shapes a more peaceful and connected world. Every trip is a chance to create lasting memories, learn from each other, and build stronger ties between people and places. By exploring and appreciating the rich diversity of our global community, we’re reminded of how travel unites us all.

At Wonderla, we’re committed to creating experiences that inspire learning, understanding, and goodwill. Let’s continue to embrace the power of travel to bring us closer.

• Sumit Prakash, Country Director, India and South Asia, Collinson International

This World Tourism Day, we celebrate India’s thriving tourism sector, and the ability for travel to connect people globally. The appetite for travel has grown immensely in India – consumers are travelling more than ever and placing a heightened value on unique experiences.

Collinson International’s recent ‘2024 Travel Benefits and Customer Engagement Report’ revealed that demand for air travel has grown from strength to strength with respondents in India making approximately six return trips a year. They also have greater spending power and are more willing to spend on enhancing their travel experiences. Millennials, which make up more than a quarter of India’s population, are leading as the top spenders on travel compared to other generations, averaging USD 6,031 annually. Travel is the highest spend category for them, accounting for more than a third (34%) of their annual expenditure.

Not only are Indians travelling and spending more, they are also exploring lesser-known destinations and travelling for different purposes. Wellness travel is on the rise, as well as sports and music tourism. For instance, Coldplay’s 2024 Asia tour has boosted music tourism in the region and we will likely see a similar traction for the band’s upcoming tour to Mumbai in 2025. Echoing this, are findings from Collinson’s recent report, ‘The Value of Sports and Music Tourism’ where it revealed that 96% of Indians have travelled to a new city or country for a sports or music event, allowing fans to experience different cultures and locations while indulging their passion for sports and music. 

The strong demand for travel, coupled with the Government’s initiatives to support the development of the travel and hospitality sector, will continue to fuel the growth of tourism in India. We are optimistic that this will offer even more opportunities for travellers and businesses – particularly those offering travel-related benefits – to build connections globally and create shared experiences across borders.

• Jose Ramapuram, Executive Director of Evolve Back Resorts

I believe tourism is not just an economic engine—it is also a powerful force for cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. As the industry grows, we have a unique responsibility to ensure that this growth does not come at the expense of the ecosystems and communities that make destinations unique. By adopting sustainable practices, we can turn tourism into a tool for regeneration. We as an industry should understand that this is not only a moral imperative but a way to ensure long-term prosperity for the country, its people, and its heritage.

• Vinay Bagri, Co-founder and CEO, Niyo:

India’s growing middle class and increasing incomes are driving the rise in outbound travel. Additionally, India’s soft power diplomacy is shaping global travel industry trends. According to the Henley Passport Index, there are 62 countries where Indian passport holders can travel visa-free. As a pioneering travel banking platform, Niyo has seen a 60% growth in international travel over the past year: 55% among leisure travellers, 70% in student travel, and 25% in business travel. Interestingly, 40% of the customers we onboarded were first-time international travellers.

Author: Jaun Shahi

Journalist, Sub-Editor, Travellers’ World Jaun is a soft-spoken and gentle soul who thrives as a Journalist with his exceptional observation skills and an eye for intricate details. He is a true multitasker who efficiently handles various tasks and always brings a professional approach to everything he does. His genuine team spirit makes him an integral part of the TW family, as he consistently collaborates and supports his colleagues.