Tourism can be a symbol of prosperity in any country. It not only influences people on a cultural basis but also contributes to promoting the economic condition of the country. One day is celebrated as World Tourism Day to raise awareness about the importance of tourism. World Tourism Day is celebrated every year on 27 September all over the world. The purpose of celebrating it is to spread awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic contribution. Tourism not only connects different cultures and places, but it is also a major part of the global economy, which is an important source of income and employment for many countries.
World Tourism Day is an occasion that gives us a chance to understand the importance of tourism and be aware of its various aspects. Tourism is not only a means of travel and entertainment, but through it, we can also contribute to the development of local communities along with protecting and preserving the environment. Tourism Day is celebrated in the month of September. But it is also interesting to know when and why the need to celebrate Tourism Day was felt, as well as who and how celebrated Tourism Day for the first time. Let us know the history, importance, and theme of World Tourism Day 2024.
History of World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day was started by the United Nations organization World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1980. The organization decided to celebrate Tourism Day on 27 September. There is also an important reason for this. The World Tourism Organization was established on 27 September 1970. World Tourism Day started being celebrated on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the founding conference of the organization. The main objective of celebrating this day is to encourage the development of tourism and present it as a means of global peace, prosperity and understanding.
Importance of World Tourism Day
Tourism not only promotes cultural exchange between different countries, but it is also important for economic development, employment opportunities and environmental balance. The economy of many countries is based on tourism and this sector is a major source of employment for the citizens there. Apart from this, tourism gives us an opportunity to know and understand each other's cultures, traditions, and history. This day is also an inspiration for all those who are working in the tourism industry and are striving for its development.
World Tourism Day Theme 2024
Every year a new theme is set by the UNWTO, under which the focus is on major issues and possibilities related to tourism. The theme of World Tourism Day 2024 is "Tourism and Peace", the theme aims to show that tourism can transform communities - create jobs, promote inclusion and strengthen local economies.
World Heritage Sites of the World
According to a data, by October 2023, about 1,199 sites around the world have been declared World Heritage Sites. Of these, 933 are cultural sites and 227 are natural sites. Also there are 39 mixed sites. At the same time, there are 43 World Heritage Sites in India. Out of which 35 are cultural sites, 7 natural sites and one Kanchenjunga National Park is of mixed type.
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