Responsible Tourism: A Necessity Not an Option!

Tourism has traditionally been thought of as a leisurely activity. Although tourism over the years may have brought prosperity in many countries, it is widely believed that, like many other industries, tourism also has the unwanted trait of self-destruction. “Tourism Kills Tourism” is a widespread phenomenon, where the negative tourism impacts over-weigh its positive impacts in the absence of appropriate interventions by the Government and other stakeholders. Exposed to the ill effects of the haphazard growth of tourism, the consciousness to promote sustainable tourism is growing. In this context, Responsible Tourism has come to the fore as fresh air. It is neither a type nor a form of tourism; rather an alternative approach to tourism progress; primarily driven by the “principles of sustainable tourism” and based on “tourism ethics” and “human rights”. This paper explains the importance of practicing Responsible Tourism in the present scenario.