A Fez of the Heart Discussion

The first paragraph on page 14 was very interesting. The fact that the fez was outlawed while people could be nude on the beaches was shocking. Villagers had essentially abandoned their culture in order to make a profit and please tourists. Tourists in bikinis initially were stoned and people were vehemently against showing that much skin in public. Once the villagers saw the potential for profit, however, they adjusted their culture to benefit from the tourists. What was once hospitality became a functioning industry.

Tourism can affect both culture and economics. Tourists often disregard a nation's culture while traveling and fail to recognize its significance. They view their culture as the only way and do not adjust their behavior while in other countries. The same goes for economics. If locals see the potential profit from tourists, they will utilize their resources to make money. Foreign resorts are not built for locals, but rather for tourists. In favoring the needs of tourists, countries can abandon the authenticity of their country. It is sad that culture and tradition can be pushed aside to make a profit.