In recent decades, we have seen the cumulative effects and significant impacts generated by tourism in economic, environmental, and social-cultural aspects. Unfortunately, there is a tendency to believe that the economic impacts are often put forward in a positive light, the environmental impacts seen as negative, and the social-cultural impacts sometimes misunderstood or ignored. In fact, there can be both positive and negative impacts. To begin with, it is evident that tourism industry has the power to improve and vitalize local economies. Such effects include improved tax revenue and personal income, increased standards of living, improvement in local infrastructures, and more employment opportunities. However, let's not be naïve about the downside of it, including the seasonal and low-paying jobs and the fact that most profits go to the multinational and internationally-owned corporations. Secondly, tourism does help with the protection and conservation of natural environment. Nevertheless, there are also issues such as increase in water and energy consumption, excessive pollution, and disruption of wildlife behavior. Finally, tourism allows for cross-cultural interaction which leads to further understanding and appreciation as well as tolerance of cultural differences. For example, the inclusion of LGBT travel, investment in arts and culture, celebration of Indigenous peoples, and community pride. Nonetheless, it also brings the change or loss of indigenous identity and values, culture clashes, and ethical issues (such as an increase in sex tourism or the exploitation of child workers). In a nutshell, tourism is always a double-edged sword. While reaping the benefits, we should raise our awareness and take actions to cope with the several negative impacts of tourism.