Geotourism provides an alternative to traditional mass tourism, the effects of which can be harmful to the local people as well as to the environment. Much of the infrastructure that supports mass tourism--large tourist hotels, restaurants, malls, tour companies--may be owned and operated by companies based on outside the tourist areas. Chain restaurants and stores may not always serve local food or sell local products. Large package tour companies may not always hire local experts and guides, who know the area's history, environment, and culture. As a result, much of the money made from this type of tourism does not stay in the local community. Moreover, tourists whose only travel experience comes via big hotels, chain restaurants, or package tours typically have little contact with the local people, thus limiting their understanding of the nature and culture of the places they visit. In contrast, geotourism is like a partnership between travelers and locals. Geotravelers stay in locally owned hotels, managed by residents who care about protecting the area and environment. They buy from local merchants and craftspeople, hire local travel guides, and go to see traditional music, dance, and theater to broaden the scope of their understanding of the area's history and culture. Geotravelers learn a lot from their close contact with local people while the money they spend stays in the community, helps local people earn a living, and helps preserve and sustain the area for future travelers. In this way, geotourism benefits both partners--travelers and residents.