I agree with the prediction that more travelers will head to India’s slum because of the film, but they’re hard to miss for any traveler to India. They not particularly well-hidden.

Good to see you on here too, Sally. Thanks. Absolutely spot on, as always. Sensitivity is the key, and no bandwagoning.

I think the danger is when these things become a “must do” and people sign up without engaging their brains. I saw this happening in the Bolivian prison I wrote about the other wk. Sure it’s a bit of a thrill, makes a gd story for the folks back home etc. But there’s a lot more to the story that that…

Ok that wasn’t slum tourism, but it was voyeuristic.

Isn’t it odd how some tours can be so voyeuristic and yet people still go into them with their eyes closed?

Looking forward to the follow up blog you mention when you next catch up with your friend

This story about SlumDog boosting what some call ‘voyeuristic’ tourism is getting quite heated and probably not going to go away

I can only hope that the film will encourage people to get under the surface of India and all its parts rather than just skimming over the surface.

I do agree – raising these issues is good and could lead to change in perception, and it’s great to raise awareness of local issues.

But there is always the risk of bandwagon jumping and ultimately exploitation with poorly managed tours.

Prefer the idea of visits being tied in with well managed volunteering programme (another hot topic!!) so really looking forward to reading more.

Sally
For YSP