As I see the world, there's one element that's even more corrosive than missionaries: tourists. It's not that I feel above them in any way, but that the very places they patronize are destroyed by their affection.
The author Tahir Shah expresses a critical view of tourists, suggesting that their zealous admiration for certain destinations can ultimately lead to the degradation of those very places. He does not claim superiority over tourists, but highlights the negative impact their presence can have on local cultures and environments. This reflects a concern for the preservation of heritage sites and natural wonders that often suffer from the influx of visitors.
Shah's comparison of tourists to missionaries underscores a belief that both groups, despite their seemingly benign intentions, can disrupt local ecosystems and traditions. He implies that the affection tourists bring to a location can become destructive, transforming unique places into mere commodities. This perspective prompts readers to consider the broader consequences of tourism on the world’s most cherished sites.