The National Trust for Historic Preservation definition defines heritage tourism as “traveling to experience the places, artifacts, and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present. It includes cultural, historical, and historical natural resources”. It includes authenticity and understanding how something or someone was. Natural heritage includes various landforms; cultural heritage involves celebrations such as festivals or places that promote traditional products or activities, while built heritage has monuments or historic infrastructure.
People of all ages can participate in heritage tourism since it can include religious activities or pilgrimages. You might think that heritage tourism does not have a vast market, but that is wrong. Many travelers prefer heritage tourism since it allows them to learn something new and exciting. There are a lot of benefits to participating in heritage tourism, and here are some of them.
Memorable. After you finish your trip, you can ask yourself, “what did I learn?” and maybe most of the time, you cannot answer it since you can barely remember anything significant. That is not the case for heritage tourism. You will learn a lot and remember them since you will experience them by seeing some of the most historic places. It is something that you will not forget.
Helps the Economy. According to Travel Industry Association, people who travel and experience heritage tourism tend to stay longer. When a tourist stays longer, they will spend more time and money. It, therefore, helps the local economy. When you have a business related to tourism, you should do your best to promote heritage tourism since it will bring you a lot of benefits.
Self-Discovery. Have you ever asked yourself things about the world that you cannot answer? I know that traveling is supposed to be about having fun and relaxing. However, who said that fun and education could not be the same, right? You can have fun while learning about your own or others’ race, culture, religion, etc.
Promotes Sustainable Tourism. When you participate in heritage tourism, you also promote the conservation of local culture. Some skills and traditions of old are slowly dying due to modernization. When you go on a heritage tour, you contribute to the history of your place or others.
The Philippines is filled with heritage sites. Here are some of the most unique and beautiful heritage sites that can be found in the Philippines.
1. Santa Maria Church (Ilocos Sur)
2. Miagao Church (Iloilo)
3. Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (Davao Oriental)
4. Paoay Church (Ilocos Norte)
5. San Agustin Church (Intramuros, Manila)
6. Historic City of Vigan (Ilocos Sur)
7. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (Sulu Sea)
8. Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras (Ifugao)
9. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Palawan)
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