Abstract | This chapter examines the suitability of two groups living in neighbouring areas of the island of Flores, Indonesia for the development of sustainable tourism. Two regions, Ngada and Manggarai, are compared. The first case study possesses characteristics which are conducive to tourism development, such as a varied and attractive culture, an outgoing and friendly disposition and a willingness to serve, while the latter does not possess such attributes. It is argued that the anthropologist can contribute to overcoming such problems by mediating between hosts and visitors and acting as a tour leader, particularly in the early stages of tourism development. In particular, the education of tourists, to the customers and mores of the hosts to minimize any offence which may be committed through ignorance is a priority in such culturally-sensitive areas. |
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