Home Destinations

How many of us can confidently say we know our home country? Meaning knowing it beyond its daily routine, its tax system, its medical care and the like. I mean knowing our country so well that we could “sell it” to any potential visitor – including ourselves.

It is quite common for most of us not to know much beyond what immediately surrounds our daily life and perhaps a few odd locations here and there. Some of us might not even know what is happening in our own backyards let alone what takes place an hours drive away.

One, ofcourse, cannot possibly know everything about ones country although there are things we all ought to know. If we live in countries teaming with visitors and tourism is a major revenue earner – we might be tempted to ask a few pertinent questions.

What specifically attracts visitors to our country? Who told them about us? What do they look for and do when they are here?

These are just some of the queries some of us might have at the sight of visitors walking up and down our streets and alleyways.

For many of us, foreign destinations have a special attraction. Be they the polar region, some vast desert, some tropical or wild jungle, locals seldom perceive their appeal, which is a pity.

It’s pretty likely the inhabitants of a place might under appreciate the “beauty” of their own home. Chances are they might be too engrossed in their humdrum daily routine or they could simply be oblivious of its charm. Lack of resources could also lead to under valuing what others travel miles upon miles to admire.

Travelling in our home countries can bring about better understanding of where we live as well as allowing people from different backgrounds to learn of each other’s ethnicity and heritage.

When we decide to take time off at home for what is known as “domestic tourism”, we would naturally spend a little and contribute somewhat to economic growth.

Promoting domestic tourism could have the trickle effect of promoting economic growth, optimal public return, employment opportunities, and enhance quality of life in the respective region or area.

Whether it is the fuel, food, accommodation or activities we purchase, it would trickle down to the pockets of the service providers at the destination, which is our home country.

This ofcourse also calls for the need for various relevant institutions to promote domestic tourism. Who does not know that international tourism is by its nature a seasonal industry with a downfall in visitors between low and peak seasons. Domestic tourism could certainly help keep the industry going till the next season.

As much as economic benefits seem to be the most obvious gains from any investment, enhancing quality of life is perhaps just as important. When one is provided with the opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of their country of residence through tourism, it could bring forward long lasting positive effects.

There might be a greater appreciation for tourism when one understands what attracts visitors to their homelands. That in turn would assist in making the country a better destination for residents and international visitors that in essence creates a win-win situation for both sides of the industry.

Perhaps the greater objective of domestic tourism is for us to learn to appreciate our cultures, distinctive lifestyles and history with whom we share a common ground with, in addition to showcasing to visitors what we have to offer.

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