As the allure of summer vacation draws many to sunnier, warmer, and more exotic places, we, the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) community, find ourselves grappling with a complex tapestry of emotions. This is especially true when we witness white individuals vacationing in our ancestral lands—lands that bear the deep scars of both historical and ongoing genocide, settler colonialism, and extractive capitalism. In the shadows of these harsh realities, the blissful narratives of travel often overlook or ignore the painful legacy and present-day consequences of white colonialism that still persist in these regions.

As we grapple with the present echoes of our painful past, the question looms large: how do we address the dissonance between the harm inflicted upon our people and lands and the seemingly innocent act of tourism? The answer lies in untangling the threads of this intricate narrative, acknowledging the complexity of our emotions and the challenges we face in discussing a topic so deeply rooted in the legacy of colonisation.

It’s not a straightforward conversation. On one hand, we are burdened by the weight of historical and present wounds, and on the other, our societal frameworks, steeped in Euro-centric perspectives, often leave us ill-equipped to articulate our feelings. Yet, recognising the urgency of this discourse, I embark on an exploration, fully aware that the path may be fraught with missteps. My intent is to unravel why white tourism in the global south is far from benign and to delve into ways we can collectively dismantle the cycle of harm.

Let’s embark on this journey together, acknowledging the complexity, discomfort, and necessity of engaging in conversations that pave the way for a more conscientious and equitable exploration of our shared world.

Capitalism and the Tourism Industry:

White tourism often perpetuates capitalist structures, contributing to a system that commodifies cultures, landscapes, and experiences. The global south becomes a playground for profit, where local resources are exploited for economic gain, often leaving the indigenous communities with minimal benefits.

Exploitative and Extractive Colonialism:

The legacy of colonialism persists in modern tourism, with white travelers unknowingly or knowingly perpetuating exploitative dynamics. Many tourist destinations in the global south bear the scars of historical exploitation, and continued visitation can reinforce a neocolonial mindset, where economic benefits are disproportionately skewed.

Power Dynamics at Play:

The power dynamics inherent in white tourism can be profound. From bargaining in local markets to influencing policy decisions, the imbalance of power between white tourists and local communities is evident. This dynamic fosters a sense of entitlement and reinforces historical narratives of superiority.

Freedom of Movement vs. Neo-Colonial Entitlement:

While the freedom to travel is a fundamental human right, the way in which this freedom is exercised requires careful consideration. White travelers may unknowingly carry a neo-colonial mindset, approaching destinations in the global south with a sense of entitlement rather than a genuine appreciation for the culture and history.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability:

White tourism often brings with it environmental consequences, from increased carbon footprints to the strain on local ecosystems. It’s crucial to explore sustainable tourism practices that respect the delicate balance between exploration and preservation.

Cultural Appropriation:

White tourism can sometimes lead to cultural appropriation, where traditional practices are commodified for the pleasure of tourists. This can erode the authenticity of local cultures, turning them into mere spectacles for consumption rather than living, breathing traditions.

In reevaluating our approach to travel, especially in the global south, it’s imperative to reflect on the impact of our actions. By acknowledging the problematic dynamics of white tourism, we can work towards fostering a more equitable, respectful, and sustainable approach to exploring the rich diversity our world has to offer.

To foster a more equitable, respectful, and sustainable approach to travel in the global south, white tourists can embody the following practical steps, behaviours, and mindsets:

1. Educate Yourself on the History and Current Realities

• Learn the Context: Before visiting a destination, take the time to learn about its history, including the impacts of colonialism, ongoing social and political struggles, and the experiences of the local population. Understanding this context helps you approach your travels with greater awareness and respect.

• Seek Out Local Voices: Prioritise learning from local historians, activists, and community leaders. Engage with content (books, articles, documentaries) created by people from the region to gain an authentic perspective on their experiences and challenges.

2. Practice Conscious and Responsible Tourism

• Support Local Economies: Choose to spend your money at locally-owned businesses rather than international chains. Stay in guesthouses, eat at family-owned restaurants, and buy goods from local artisans. This ensures that your spending benefits the community directly.
• Avoid Exploitative Practices: Be mindful of tourism activities that exploit animals, people, or natural resources. Opt for tours and experiences that are ethical, community-based, and sustainable.

3. Embrace Humility and Listen More Than You Speak

• Be a Learner, Not a Saviour: Approach your travels with the mindset of a humble learner, not someone who is there to “fix” or “save” a community. Listen to the stories and experiences of locals without imposing your own views or solutions.
• Invite Dialogue, Not Dominance: Engage in conversations with an open mind, allowing space for different perspectives. Understand that your role as a visitor is to learn and witness, not to dominate or direct the narrative.

4. Reflect on Your Privilege and Power Dynamics

• Acknowledge Privilege: Reflect on the privileges that allow you to travel freely, particularly to regions where locals may not have the same opportunities for mobility. Understand how this privilege can affect your interactions and the perceptions of those you encounter.
• Respect Boundaries: Be aware of the power dynamics at play in your interactions. Whether bargaining in a market or engaging with locals, ensure that your actions do not exploit or demean. Respect the boundaries and dignity of the people you meet.

5. Practice Environmental Stewardship

• Minimise Your Footprint: Be conscious of your environmental impact. Reduce waste, conserve water and energy, and choose eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options whenever possible.
• Respect Natural Spaces: Treat natural environments with care and reverence. Stick to designated paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow all local guidelines to protect ecosystems.

6. Avoid Cultural Appropriation and Foster Cultural Respect

• Respect Cultural Practices: Engage with local customs and traditions in a way that honours and respects them. Avoid treating cultural practices as mere entertainment or taking part in rituals that you don’t fully understand.
• Avoid “Exoticising” Cultures: Be careful not to view or portray local cultures as “exotic” novelties. Understand that these are living traditions with deep significance, not commodities for your enjoyment.

7. Commit to Lifelong Learning and Advocacy

• Continue the Conversation: When you return home, continue educating yourself and others about the issues you’ve encountered. Use your platform to advocate for fair and ethical tourism practices and share what you’ve learned with your community.
• Support Local Initiatives: Consider supporting local initiatives that work towards social justice, environmental protection, and cultural preservation in the regions you visit. This can be through donations, volunteer work, or simply amplifying their voices.

By embodying these steps, behaviours, and mindsets, white tourists can become more conscientious travellers, contributing to the well-being of the communities they visit while dismantling the harmful dynamics often perpetuated by traditional tourism. This approach allows for a richer, more respectful exploration of the global south, where the beauty and complexity of these regions are truly honoured.