It’s easy to forget just how much power you have as a tourist. Of course, you don’t have any special exemptions or privileges, and you’re still beholden to the law of the country you’re visiting. But it’s true that your money, and the money of people like you, can keep towns, and even small cities alive. While there are certain protests going on around Europe regarding tourist stays (mostly concerned with rentals taking up all the housing stock), and some of these grudges are certainly valid, it’s important to note the good you can do as a tourist.
For example, the obvious example is to support small local restaurants that absolutely depend on your trade (that is, they still need to earn your custom through good food). The second is to be mindful of your litter and presence, to leave things as or better than you found them. But what about culture? We usually think that tourists go to a place to learn and absorb the culture of an area, and that can be true, but is it everything?
Not necessarily. Let’s explore how your tourist money can both expose you to, and support culture through some worthwhile tips:
Support Local Theatre
Going to a local theater is an awesome way to support the arts in a community you’re visiting, because theatre needs all the help it can get. These smaller productions often rely on your ticket sales to keep going, and don’t forget they give local actors, writers, and designers a chance to showcase their capabilities without having to pack up for major cities. With broadway.com to help you seamless get to the best tickets, you get to see some intimate performances that can be super memorable. They make for a great date, too.
Moreover, it’s a different kind of experience from seeing a big-budget show, feeling more personal and connected. You may also learn more about the local culture. We’re willing to bet some playwrights would prefer a smaller passionate production than a huge budget one, strange as that sounds. If you go to the city that the playwright is from, you may find something very cool indeed.
Photo by Ekaterina Belinskaya
Consider Dated Cultural Attractions, Like Historic Cinemas
Cinemas are struggling, and old cinemas even more so. These places are often beautiful old buildings with so much character, a big change from the modern multiplexes or IMAX installations we’re all used to. Many of these spots have been around for generations and they need people to keep coming in to stay afloat. Sitting there can be incredible, knowing people saw films like Cascablance or Dirty Harry for the first time in the seat you’re in.
This also means a ticket purchase helps preserve a piece of local history and supports an art form that’s been central to communities for decades. You get to enjoy a movie in a stunning setting while making sure that part of the city’s heritage doesn’t fade away.
Make A Small Donation Where You See Fit
If you like, just giving a little something extra can make a huge impact on a local cultural spot. While visiting a free museum, a small church, or an artist’s gallery, you might see a donation box. It’s always a good idea to drop in a few coins or a little more if you can. These little donations add up and can help with the upkeep of the place or support the people who work there. It’s a simple way to say thank you for the experience and leave your mark on it.
With this advice, you’re sure to use your tourist money to benefit local culture..
