Efectos sociales y culturales del turismo en las comunidades Roberto Barrios y La Cascada de Palenque, Chiapas, México

This survey was developed in two stages; firstly, consisted on a characterization of both communities, and their respective tourist attractions.  Secondly, was the implementation of an in-depth interview discussed extensively with 22 people in a universe of 35 people, which were selected based on the elapsed time living in the community, the fact that the interviews were performed to people with some degree of social and cultural representativity, as well as belonging to the two associations that operate the two tourist centers. The outcome showed that there is not sign of significant evidence of social or cultural effects arising from the presence of national and foreign tourists who visit both tourist attractions, there is a decline in the practice of topics such as: religious festivities, and some attitudes that are being taken by the residents in both communities especially the young male. The participation of women in tourist activities is minimal. From these results, it is suggested to work on the design of a comprehensive program aimed at strengthening the values, customs and traditions, especially those of a religious nature, and gastronomy, as well as behaviors that allow rescue the customs and rituals of the residents of past generations in both communities, this as a form of preservation and strengthening of local indigenous roots that strengthen the cultural aspects particularly in young people, but also to strengthen the concept of community.