Abstract
This essay gives definition to sustainable tourism and ecotourism. It also includes an outline for the difference between the two. Geographic examples given include Kenya, Mt. Everest, Iceland, and Los Angeles. Through a political ecology lens, it analyzes both forms of tourism and provides evidence to why sustainable tourism should be pursued over ecotourism. As tourism is a driving force in the global economy, stakeholders such as the local communities must be given the highest consideration; and as consumers, we must make choices that provide the most positive impact.