Tourism Management Certificate Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

Cultural erosion is a significant negative impact of tourism on local communities. As tourism increases, there can be a dilution or loss of local cultural practices, traditions, and identities. This phenomenon occurs when communities adapt their customs and ways of life to cater to tourists' expectations, often leading to a commercialization of cultural expressions. Traditional practices may be altered or commodified to make them more appealing to visitors, ultimately diminishing their authenticity and significance within the community.

In contrast, enhanced cultural exchange and increased economic opportunities are generally viewed as positive outcomes of tourism. Improved local infrastructure can also be seen as beneficial, as it often enhances the overall quality of life for residents, but none of these options reflect the detrimental effects that tourism can impose on the integrity of local cultures. Therefore, cultural erosion stands out as the primary negative impact in this context.