"A concerted effort to preserve our heritage is a vital link to our cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, and economic legacies—all of the things that quite literally make us who we are." Steve Berry

A deep state of emotion is connected to the world heritage sites of countries as they often tell about their roots, rich culture, history, etc.

UNESCO names place as World Heritage Sites when they are of significant cultural, historical, scientific, or other value.

The locations have cultural and natural heritage value and are thought to be of extraordinary worth to humanity.

World heritage sites play a vital role in the travel and tourism industry as they help attract tourists, resulting in the economic growth of a destination. If you wish to know how inbound tour operators can help, here is an insightful article for you: https://www.etosglobal.com/blogs/how-do-inbound-tour-operators-play-a-significant-role-in-the-economic-growth-of-a-destination

How do inbound tour operators play a significant role in the economic growth of a destination?

• There are currently 1,154 World Heritage Sites in 167 nations, including 897 cultural, 218 natural, and 39 mixed properties.
• Italy is the nation with the most sites on the list, with 58.
• They have high cultural importance around the world, which has led to their preservation, with the government and UNESCO establishing several strict rules to protect them from man-made damage.
• If any tourist or citizen is found violating these rules, there are severe punishments.
• They are so important that, apart from the strict laws enforced globally, there are also some cultural groups formed by history preservation enthusiasts that aim to protect these sites for future generations.
• 18th of April is celebrated every year as World Heritage Day to spread awareness about the conservation of these sites and their value.

Curious to know why these properties are given so much importance? Read on to find out!

They all tell a story from the beginning of time about how and why they were built. Many of these sites have stories about emperors and powerful kingdoms associated with them that entice visitors to visit and learn about their rich cultural history. After all, who doesn't enjoy a good read?

Each site is different from the others and holds a great deal of historical significance. You see a glimpse of ancient architecture and the handiwork that was done during the early ages. People are amazed by the history and the value these sites hold globally, which has resulted in good growth in the tourism industry.

Why should tour operators plan trips to world heritage sites?

• World heritage sites are amazing opportunities for inbound tour operators and travel agents to attract tourists from different parts of the world.
• For all the architecture and history enthusiasts, you can curate a trip to Italy that covers all of its 58 sites.
• Plan for guided tours. It is essential to have guides who know all about the history and future of these sites to keep your tourists informed and keep the tour interesting.
• If you are a travel agency in Italy, you can arrange 1-day tours to these places, presenting it as an opportunity for like-minded people to interact with each other.
• This will attract many interested candidates, and you can then form a small Facebook group with them to post all of your upcoming tours.
• There are two benefits to this: (A) you collect a database of clients who are interested, and (B) you generate revenue from them.
• If you are not interested in planning a tour only with world heritage sites, you can add them as a surprise element at the end of the tour to give your customers a good experience.
• By including World Heritage Sites in your itinerary, you are sending a good message out there that states that you care about these sites and helps you build a good brand reputation.

The splendour of the world's three most visited world heritage sites!

1. Memphis and its Necropolis, Egypt

• One of the most intriguing World Heritage Sites in Egypt was founded in 3200 BC by King Narmer. This site was considered one of the seven wonders of the world in ancient times because of its rich archaeological structure and remains.

   

• The Great Pyramid of Giza, the only remaining marvel of the ancient world, was one of the most significant monuments in the world when Memphis was constructed. 

   

• Scientists are still studying how it was built because its architectural design is still unmatched and has gained attention globally. 

   

• In 1979, Egypt's Pyramid Fields, which stretch from Giza to Dahshur, were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ancient structures can be found throughout Giza, with the Pyramid of Giza being the most well-known. 

   

• There are historical buildings and monuments in Giza. Three pyramid complexes make up the Great Pyramids of Giza.
  
  

• Together, UNESCO and the Department of Antiquities of Giza are developing a site management strategy focused on the preservation of the most important buildings within the historic city of Memphis, as well as Giza and Dahshur 

2. Yellowstone National Park, USA

• Surrounded by active geysers and spectacular views, Yellowstone National Park showcases the beauty of nature at its finest. 

   

• It houses one of the world's biggest active volcanoes beneath it and is the only place in the USA where herds of bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times. 

   

• It gets its unique and eye-catching colours from microorganisms called thermophiles. Yellowstone was named a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1976 and a World Heritage site in 1978.

   

• In addition to being the first national park in the United States, many people believe Yellowstone to be the first national park ever created. 

   

• The park is renowned for its fauna and several geothermal phenomena, with the Old Faithful geyser being one of its most well-known. 

   

• You should plan a trip here because it offers a variety of beautiful experiences for tourists.

3. Taj Mahal

• Bless your eyes with the views of this majestic white marble mahal, created by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Its ivory-white colour makes it difficult for one to tear their eyes off this beautiful masterpiece.

   

• In 1983, the Taj Mahal was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many people believe it to be the finest example of Mughal architecture and a representation of India's long and rich history. 

• The Taj Mahal is regarded as the pinnacle of architectural achievement in all of the Indo-Islamic architecture.

   

• More than 6 million people visit the Taj Mahal each year, and it was chosen as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World (2000–2007) in 2007.
  
  

• Its beauty, designs, and cultural riches have enticed travellers from all over the world to visit.

Planning, managing, and making itineraries for so many different locations and customers can be tiring and difficult to manage. 

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