Behind every destination lies a community that calls the place their home, each holding a unique culture, lifestyle, and values. Amidst the landscape of a growing tourism industry, it is the residents that make up these communities that often find themselves voiceless and powerless, as they are struggling to be a part of the economic and social transformation taking place in their neighbourhoods.

To promote responsible tourism, we have to immerse ourselves in the narratives of these communities—they are woven into the fabric of their hometowns, offering a window into past and present, into craftsmanship, tradition and identity.

By listening to their voices, we become more aware of the challenges and opportunities faced by communities affected by tourism. This understanding can go on to empower us, both as hosts and guests, to advocate for meaningful change and cultivate a culture of reciprocity and respect.

We met four individuals part of the vibrant village community of Ahangama, Sri Lanka. Their stories reflect the resilience, adaptation, cultural evolution, and aspirations of their community, shedding light not only on the challenges faced but also on pathways toward a more inclusive and responsible future of a destination currently undergoing transformative change.