" The fact that television and tourism have made the whole world accessible has created the illusion that we enjoy intimate knowledge of other places, when we barely scratch their surface. For the vast majority, the knowledge of Thailand or Sri Lanka acquired through tourism consists of little more than the whereabouts of the beach. "
- Martin Jacques

Television and tourism have made it seem as though we can intimately know places around the world simply by watching them on a screen or visiting them briefly. However, this perception often falls short of reality; many people think they understand far more about countries like Thailand or Sri Lanka than they actually do, mostly limited to knowing where their beaches are.

The quote delves deeper into how modern technology and travel have created an illusion of global understanding without the depth of knowledge that comes from true immersion. The superficial nature of our interactions with foreign cultures, mediated through tourism and media, leaves us with little more than surface-level impressions and stereotypes. This lack of profound cultural insight is troubling because it prevents us from forming genuine connections and understanding with other societies on a meaningful level.

Martin Jacques is a renowned British author and journalist known for his incisive analysis of global politics and culture. His work often focuses on the complexities of China's relationship with the rest of the world, as well as broader issues concerning globalization and cultural exchange. This quote encapsulates his perspective on how contemporary modes of communication and travel can hinder rather than enhance our understanding of different cultures.