Globalization and Travel: World Economic Forum

Globalization has without a doubt led to increased travel and a boom of the tourism industry. While the term “globalization” generally is used more for discussion of trade and finance, the diffusion of people across borders is a leading factor for increased interactions among cultures. A rise in student debt and housing costs contribute to cultural trends that favor experiences more than possessions. Culture Trip’s recent survey reported that 43 percent of US and UK respondents report that they “make compromises on their daily expenses so they can save money to travel more.” Kris Naudts, writing for the World Economic Forum, goes on to discuss four mindsets of travelers: culturally aware, culturally curious, culturally immersive and culturally fluid. Many young people acknowledge that tourism has contributes to fossil fuel emissions and climate change. The survey found that two in five millennials, more than any other generation, worry about tourism’s impact on the environment. The article concludes, “In essence, caring about the world makes you want to see the world; seeing the world makes you care about the world.” – Yale Global