Tourism has always been a commercial enterprise, yet it is increasingly intertwined with cultural and social upheaval as well as environmental degradation in the Global South. True Costs Initiative explores how the business of pleasure can become not so pleasurable business.
On my most recent trip home, the friendly customs’ officer asked me with a smile, “Will you be visiting for business or pleasure?” I proudly responded, “For pleasure, and with pleasure of course.” He vigorously stamped my passport and said, “Excellent, welcome to Jamaica.” As I walked away congratulating myself on my witticism, it occurred to me that few, if any, trips for vacation or tourism are ever so binary. Tourism has always been a commercial enterprise and is increasingly intertwined with cultural and social upheaval as well as environmental degradation in the Global South. In fact, the business of pleasure can turn into some not so pleasurable business.