So it’s another seminar. It’s my biggest concern in this unit because I already did badly in the last seminar. However, I did say a few more sentences than in the previous seminar, even though the score still does not look very satisfying. Here are my opinions on the topics since I didn’t speak much during the actual seminar.

“When in Rome, should we do as the Romans do?”  :

 

So, from my perspective this is an age-old question that comes up when traveling to new places – should we adapt to the local customs and etiquette, or stick to our own cultural norms? There are merits to both approaches.

 Embracing local customs when visiting a place can help us better understand and appreciate the host culture. It shows respect and openness to new ways of doing things. We may even find that adopting some local habits enriches our experience. However, completely abandoning our own values and principles just to “fit in” can also be problematic. There’s a balance to be struck between being adaptable and staying true to ourselves.

 I think the key is to research the local customs ahead of time, be observant when we arrive, and make conscious choices about when to assimilate and politely maintain our cultural identity. Maintaining an open and curious mindset is often the best approach when visiting somewhere new and different.

 

“Dark Tourism”:

 

Dark tourism refers to travel to sites associated with death, disaster, and suffering. This can include places like concentration camps, sites of natural disasters, or even “murderous” tourist attractions.

 On one hand, these dark tourism sites provide important opportunities for education, remembrance, and raising awareness about tragic historical events. Visiting them can help us grapple with heavy topics and develop greater empathy and understanding.

 However, critics argue that dark tourism can also be voyeuristic, sensationalist, and disrespectful to victims and their families. There are concerns about the commercialization and exploitation of human suffering for entertainment or profit.

 When engaging in dark tourism, it’s crucial to approach these sites with solemnity, sensitivity, and a genuine desire to learn. We should research the history thoroughly, follow local customs and etiquette, and reflect deeply on the human stories behind the darkness. Dark tourism is a complex phenomenon that requires careful consideration.

 

Overall, both of these topics highlight the nuances involved when immersing ourselves in new cultural contexts as travelers. An open, thoughtful, and empathetic mindset is key to navigating these challenging but rewarding experiences.

 

 

This is the second seminar out of all three, and next time I will try to express my opinions more.

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