Increasing tourism is a great goal, but the idea of kick-starting an economic recovery by attracting Asian shoppers to the United States to buy goods that are, for the most part, made in Asia doesn't sound all that sustainable.

He Tao ...said they have already started a major campaign to turn the city into a top international gastronomic center. This, he said, accords with the national strategy of using each city's soft power, but, of course, the city got a boost after it received the UNESCO's global gastronomy label.

These programmes will showcase the rich and diverse artistic and cultural productions; highlight the multidisciplinary nature of the field of performing arts... foster cultural vitality and unleash talent; promote cultural tourism; and enhance cultural diplomacy.

A promotional campaign urging visitors from the Gulf to visit Jordan appears to be paying off for the Hashemite Kingdom, whose hotels and attractions have been struggling with a drop in tourism from Europe and America. Jordan has been hoping to capitalize on its image of a relatively calm country amidst turbulent unrest to draw visitors.

Estimating the longer-term benefits to the country is a much woolier calculation. The report projects that a legacy of sports-related tourism and the opportunity to do more hosting in the future could be worth NZ$1.44 billion. Indeed, New Zealand is set to co-host the 2015 Cricket World Cup with Australia, although it might well have secured that prize even if the rugby tournament were being played elsewhere.

“With nearly one billion tourists crossing international borders, tourism is one of the best way for people to experience, interact with and learn from new cultures. This cultural exchange spurs dialogue among nations and peoples, fostering mutual understanding, respect and ultimately, peace,”

...continued by sharing some facts. "Do you know that Barbados was founded by a freed Nigerian slave? That is cultural diplomacy waiting for us there. Today, the official residence of the prime minister has a Nigerian name... They are asking for (Nigerian) TV content for the Broadcasting Organisation of the Caribbean. They are desperate to connect with us," he revealed.