Outline three of the common criticisms of codes of conduct as tools for visitor management
The first criticism of the codes of conduct is that they are inexact and too general. Usually, the way people behave in another social setting (tourist destination) is not directly irresponsible but is more ignorant towards the local culture. People are unaware of the influence they have on the population, and the codes do not clearly outline in what ways the two cultures interact. People, who arrive in the new setting, do not have a particular want to negatively influence society, so it difficult to understand by what criteria the code of conduct is organized.
The second criticism is that people who think up the codes are localities and do not have any particular data that specifically sets out the interaction and its negative sides. As the people who are directly involved in the interaction, tourists, do not participate in the creation of the codes, the very little real-life impact is made. Those who set the codes are unaware of the true environment and specific guidelines. It is proposed that the codes must be organized according to specific cases and not to a general moral code applicable to all situations.
The third criticism is that because of the general nature, no one knows the reaction of the localities, effects, and changes or how the population plays a role in communication with tourists and what influences it exhibits. The code makers themselves do not know the social specifics of the tourists visiting, and it has been offered that tourists must participate in the creation of these codes of conduct. It has been suggested that the local governments and organizations must become closely involved in the study and research of their local specifics, as well as the social norms of other societies.
In what ways did the Ngadha case study identify that tourist behavior could be influenced by codes of conduct?
Since the study was made directly within the village and was later compared to the codes of conduct, there were many similarities found. The fact that it was specific and sited unwanted behavior made tourists more aware of the actions they must avoid. The fact that it specifically outlined the exact behaviors about that particular location and traditions made tourists more knowledgeable. The majority of tourists have shown to be unfamiliar with the information contained within the codes of conduct, but some were not new. It proves that people will read and learn how to behave in a foreign setting if they are presented with the opportunity.
The limitations that were exhibited with the distribution of codes and the minimal amount of pamphlets showed that people are unaware due to lack of information and not the want to ignore the local culture. Also, people were advised to have a tour guide who can familiarize tourists with the culture and help adjust communication and general interaction. It’s led to a more valuable and rich experience, and this is an important aspect of the trip that tourists look for.
The participation and inclusion of tourists in the creation of the codes of conduct play one of the significant roles, as people can share their experiences and expectations of the local society and culture. The manipulation and adjustment of certain criteria within the code established a better response from tourists, so they felt inclined to learn more and behave respectfully. Tourists are willing to learn, they only need better resources and opportunities to familiarize themselves with specifics.