Tourism & Politeness

I recall reading a news article not long ago, about a the Ministry of Tourism proposing to change Lithuania’s “English” name to something other than Lithuania? Supposedly this would somehow make Lithuania more recognizable and increase the flow of tourism.

I hope this isn’t actually being given serious consideration! What a waste of time! One comedian even suggested thet by changing the name to “PARIS” tourism would flourish!

I have one suggestion to increase tourism, Or at least prevent loss of tourism.

The Ministry of tourism should engage in a public education program to teach citizens how to be more polite in crowded situations. Especially on public transportation vehicles.

During my most recent visit to Kaunas I was surprised to hear two young girls express their dislike for using the Auto-bus system to travel about Kaunas. They mentioned that there was a growing number of rude travelers who push people aside while exiting or even become very abusive towards the drivers for a number of reasons.

I had not noticed this during my previous travels. However I decided to see for myself if there was much truth to the matter. It’s seems to me that their complaints were well founded. On more than just a couple of occasions I was witness to the same rude behavior. And it was not limited to the Public Transportation System either.  Even young children have forgotten how to say “pardon me”.  I watched in amazement as they pushed their way through small crowds.

No, this is not behavior expressed by the vast majority of citizens. And I don’t wish to portray this noticeable increase in rudeness as a mass epidemic. However it needs to be addressed before Tourists begin to take note of such behavior and return to their countries with any negative feelings about their general experiences as a guest of Lithuania.

It only takes one small fire, left untended, to burn an entire village.

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT BEEN TO LITHUANIA

This was submitted to me by a visitor to another site that I am involved with.

LIETUVA

When your mate asks “Why do you love me?”
You probably can’t find the words to fully explain.

This is how I feel about Lithuania.

For those who have not yet stood on her soil…What is truly preventing you?

Once you find yourself there, break away from your friends
and family or tourist group.

Spend a few moments alone with her.

If you ignore the ever present rambling thoughts in your mind
and just listen …

She will speak softly to you!

And welcome you with an open heart.

And perhaps sing an ancient song, written especially for you … In anticipation of your return to your ancestral home.

What will the Future Bring?

Eighteen years ago Lithuanian reclaimed it’s Sovereignty and Independence.  Lithuanians living in the homeland and abroad were suddenly swept up by a tidal wave of mixed emotions and concerns.

Some were waiting for the sky to fall upon them, others adopted a more cautious “let’s wait and see what happens next approach”, while others immediately began charting a course for the future.

During the years of Soviet occupation, Lithuanians remained steadfast in the preservation of their language and cultural identity. Their resistance to “Russification” never faded. This was a testament to the tenacity of the Lithuanian people.

Such tenacity and determination was the foundation of Lithuania’s ability to rise to the challenges ahead.  No population can claim to be fully satisfied with current affairs. This is only natural. Every society that has survived the test of time is in a constant state of flux. This is the unrelenting process of Evolution.

I am merely an ‘outside observer’ with relatively few contacts in mainstream Lithuanian society. And not an authority on any of the subjects mentioned in my blog. Never the less,  I am amazed by the progress of Lithuania. And firmly believe that the people of Lithuania have once again proven their ability to overcome obstacles and adversity.

Lithuania remains in good hands, as it has been for centuries!

(For those of you who enjoy intelligent observations and comments about a wide variety of Lithuanian realted topics, you might want to explore the link to ‘lituanica’ that is posted in my ‘blog roll’. The Author really puts his heart and sole into his work!)