Tourism may have many different effects on the social and cultural aspects of life in a particular region or area, depending on the cultural and religious strengths of that region. The interaction between tourists and the host community can be one of the factors that may affect a community as tourists may not be sensitive to local customs, traditions and standards. The effect can be positive or negative on the host community (Mathieson & Wall, 1982).
1. Local communities can mix with people from diverse backgrounds with different lifestyles which through ‘demonstration effect’ may lead to the development of improved lifestyles and practices from the tourists’ examples;
2. There can be an improvement in local life through better local facilities and infrastructure (developed to sustain tourism) which could lead to better education, health care, employment opportunities and income;
3. More cultural and social events available for local people such as entertainment, exhibitions etc.