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Apparently, tourism is a major source of income. However, a lot of foreign tourists try to get in for free. I used to be a fan of those vlogs that teach how to go around Batad for free but I now see how these influencers have not really helped the locals. These vloggers did promote Batad, for free and without giving back to locals.
I understand that they are backpackers and want to save money, however, do they just enjoy the place without giving back? There are backpackers who promote this kind of trip, they can travel almost for free these tourists sites but do they understand the impact to the locals.
I am also trying to save money when I travel. I like discounts and free stuff, but as travelers, we can’t just take and take from the locals and their home, we have the opportunity to give back as well. And I’m not even talking about charity, it’s supporting their tourism services, and paying for the time and effort they provide.
Traveling is a privilege, and if you, from another country, was able to get here, then you are more privileged than some locals here who haven’t even been out of the country. While you think of the free tours you can get, they think of the meal that they can provide for their family if they earn from these tourism services.
I am honestly surprised that a UNESCO World Heritage site only costs a dollar to enter and does not require local guides. Both locals and foreigners only have to pay a very cheap tourism fee of P50 (less than a US dollar).
While other tourist spots that is easier to trek has a “No Guide, No Entry” policy, you are free to go around in Batad after paying the minimal tourism fee. For Instance, Apo Whang Od’s village in Buscalan has this policy and the locals lives have drastically improved in a matter of 2 years.
Some tourists complain that Batad doesn’t look nice now because of the structures being built around and the lower cost houses. They want to see nipa huts.However, there are a few nipa huts and native houses because it is now expensive and impractical to maintain this. The trees where they used to get the “nipa” ro
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