Ulaanbaatar, April 7, 2026 /MONTSAME/.
My name is Munkhtogtokh Batjargal. I am a tourism lecturer at the
University of Finance and Economics.
When hearing “lecturer,” people may imagine me
standing in front of a classroom. That is partly true. However, training
tourism students is not only about theory. I often travel to the countryside
with my students for field practice and research.
During these trips, we buy fresh bread, local
food, airag (fermented mare’s milk), dairy products, and souvenirs from local
people. We also ride horses and camels, supporting their services. Through
this, students learn that travel is not only about enjoying nature and
relaxing, but also about the impact we leave on the places we visit.
However, many travelers in our country do the
opposite. When the travel season begins, people usually pack everything they
need from the city before leaving. However, people do not realize that the
products made and services provided by local residents are unique and one of a
kind, and that they greatly support their livelihoods as well as the regional
economy.
In a few days, the domestic travel season will
begin. Please remember that buying from local communities makes your trip livelier
and more meaningful. It creates real value. In other words, you are not just a
tourist but you become part of the local culture, traditions, and way of life.
You also create memories and stories to share in the future.
Therefore, I encourage you, as a traveler, to learn to make small but
important decisions when you go on a trip. Tourism is not only about going somewhere
and returning, but about how much positive impact you leave behind in the place
you visit.
Tuul Batsuuri
