TOURISM AND SOCIAL POLICY

TOURISM is one of the flourishing sectors all over the world. If we talk about Pakistan in general and Gilgit-Baltistan in particular, the sector is expanding with every passing day. Over the last couple of years, there has been an increase in international tourism. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit the region with families and friends and enjoy the indigenous culture and lifestyle. Socially, they are hospitable for every passer and respect them by their best level.

There are some areas where people provide shelter for tourist families free of cost and serve them local cuisines full of dedication and sincerity. Locals also believe that culture is a significant part of tourism that seldom not compromise with external influence. For instance, it is not uncommon for an open-dressed lady to make loud noises or for a man to dance with a lady in the open market places. In some cultures, that wouldn't be considered rude, but in Gilgit-Baltistan, it is absolutely rude to do it. Their women are, certainly, educated but are bound with culture and religious values. Usually, a traveler must be an ambassador of his/her culture and social norms along with traveling to other regions and territories. They have to consider and follow the local social norms before the expressions and practices that they believe in.

Rakaposhi Nagar, Gilgit-Baltistan

Knowing that beforehand can make a big difference in the level of enjoyment and immersion you get while there. Understand which culture finds direct eye contact to be appropriate and where it's considered impolite, or knowing where pointing with your finger is considered insulting, may make a big difference in a local's attitude when interacting with you. If we understand and respect the local customs it can make a huge difference in how we connect with others. Because a culture refers to all the aspects that make up a people's way of life, including the arts, how they make a living, architecture, and land-use patterns in the community. It also interprets the religious boundaries that people make the foundation of a complete life for here and hereafter.

Jaffarabad Nagar, GB

This is tourism that provides the opportunity for a traveler to understand social norms and cultural values that the locals prefer above their business. A chance to experience cultural diversity or the attributes of culture in a particular destination is an important travel motivator. In the past, cultural tourism was for the wealthy elite. Today, it is increasing as more people have higher disposable incomes and more holidays, resulting in more investment in the industry by both governments and the tourism business community. Improvements in communication and transportation technology have also promoted cultural awareness. Each traveler is the guest for the region and he/she should behave accordingly, so that they may honor, serve and guide properly.

Last but not least, open dancing with she-male in an area that is culturally and religiously strict with principles and social norms. It is also against the ethic of tourism that we need to respect the culture and social norms of an area where we plan to visit. Such rude and nudity behaviors by travelers on the roadside and immoral videos by TikTokers harm the culture and religious values that a tourist must have to understand.