Having lived in Viet Nam for over two years, I have had the privilege to visit remote villages throughout Southeast Asia, in Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand and Burma. On more than a few occasions, I have taken part in eco-tours or homestays where local, indigenous people have been my guide, cook or instructor. My initial assumption has always been that tourism is mutually beneficial for both parties. I still believe that is true in most cases. However, I was disheartened after a tour of the local Kayan ladies in Burma.

The ladies seemed disconnected, despondent and dispirited as they performed a traditional dance for us. I felt as if I was encroaching on their home, their space, and their culture. It felt wrong.

I have done some further research into the impact of tourism on indigenous culture and found that, as I presumed, there are pros and cons. The following slideshow presentation goes through several case studies, which outline these threats and benefits. http://www.slideshare.net/guest809599/tourism-impacts-on-indigenous-people

Some negative impacts:

• Staged authenticity – the performing of shows as if it were in real-life (this is what I experiences in Burma)
• Cultural Erosion – cultural goods may be sold as souvenirs, possibly lessoning the spiritual or cultural importance
• Westernization: growing contact with outsiders can affect the culture’s religion, values, language and values.

Some positive impacts:

• Economic stability
• Western cultures learn to appreciate diversity
• Eco-tourism encourages locals to preserve the environment

Overall, this slideshow was a useful resource. It offered interesting case studies of indigenous people from Ecuador, Australia and East Africa. I do; however, feel that it is worth searching for other credible resources on this topic.