Tourism Management Certificate (TMC) Practice Exam

What term describes when tourists choose not to engage with local customs and instead seek familiar environments?

1. Cultural immersion

2. Tourist bubble

3. Global tourism

4. Cultural ambassadorship

The correct answer is: Tourist bubble

The term that describes when tourists choose not to engage with local customs and instead seek familiar environments is known as the "tourist bubble." This concept refers to a scenario where travelers prefer to stay within familiar contexts, often resorting to standard, well-known tourist experiences rather than venturing into authentic local culture. By doing so, they may avoid deeper interactions with the local environment, focusing instead on activities that mirror their home experiences, such as dining at international chains or staying in global hotel brands. The other terms do not capture this specific behavior. Cultural immersion involves actively engaging with and experiencing local cultures. Global tourism can refer to the overall movement of tourists worldwide but does not imply a withdrawal from local customs. Cultural ambassadorship pertains to individuals who promote and share their culture with others, which is opposite to the behavior seen in a tourist bubble. Thus, the term "tourist bubble" precisely encapsulates this phenomenon of familiarization over cultural engagement.