How does tourism benefit communities according to the text?

Tourism benefits communities significantly by fostering social interactions between visitors and local residents. This engagement creates a vibrant cultural exchange that contributes to the community's identity and enhances the visitor experience. When tourists interact with locals, they gain a more authentic understanding of the area's culture, lifestyle, and traditions, which can drive a sense of community pride among residents. These social interactions can lead to collaborative opportunities, such as local events, workshops, and information sharing, that enrich both the visitors’ experiences and the locals' way of life.

In addition to these social interactions, tourism can lead to economic growth, more local businesses, and increased property values; however, these aspects are secondary to the immediate social benefits that foster a sense of connection and community engagement.