Introduction
Culture is an integral value in a Tourist product.
Similarly Tourism is a powerful vector in the valorisation of culture.
It also helps to increase revenue which contributes in the promotion and development of our cultural Patrimony to ensure productivity and creativity in our societies.
The impact of cultural awareness on Tourism promotion
In this light, the reinforcement of the link between Tourism and cultural manifestations can contribute in awakening the general interest, attractiveness, competitiveness and value of our Tourist Destinations and sites.
For Example, the promotion of Festivals, Tourist sites, Museums, Relics, Historical Residences, and places of work as sources of investment.
Similarly, culture is considered as a powerful tool towards the motivation of Tourists.
It is an important advantage in Tourism development,which plays a great role in the promotion and attractiveness of the Destination concerned.
A rich, diverse and well cultural package will contribute immensely in the promotion of the image of the Region in various ways namely:
– It will attract numerous Tourists to the area,
– Boost Tourism through cultural enhancement,
– Promote the value of local Handicrafts, Arts, etc.
– And also develop the Economy of the locality through diversified cul tural manifestations.
Nowadays, experience has shown that, Tourists travel mainly for discovery; they are excited to know about the way of life, culture, and customs of the people they visit.
Tourism is no longer considered solely as a jocundity activity where focus was laid on the visit to the country sides to commune with Nature (bask in the sun, visit the beaches etc.)
On the Contrary, nowadays Tourists prefer to participate in symbolic activities, and interact in sensual and meaningful actions.
They are more interested in visiting (areas) sites which can satisfy them in the following ways:
– Association with renown personalities of the locality
– Benefit from ideas and enjoy particular events of the Area
– Feel the impact of the sights sounds, and taste of every destination vis ited.
Conclusion:
In a nutshell, we can say that the active valorisation of the cultural diversity of any given area (e.g. the South-West Region), will play a major role in the promotion of the Tourism potentials of that community.
It can also maintain the rank of the Region as an enviable Tourist Destination in the country and the whole world at large.