Addressing Overtourism: Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

With the rise of revenge travel since mid-2022, various countries are grappling with the issue of overtourism, affecting local communities adversely. We’ve seen significant complaints, particularly from places like Greece and Spain, extending to Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and Bali in Indonesia.

Locals are reporting compromised lifestyles due to the surge in visitors, which drives up costs and strains local infrastructure. This prompts the question: How severe is overtourism globally? What potential solutions could alleviate its negative impacts?

What is Overtourism?

The term ‘overtourism’ was introduced by Freya Petersen in 2001, highlighting the adverse effects of tourist influx on local life in Pompeii. Initially dismissed as alarmist, it’s since become recognized as a critical issue, especially when authorities prioritize tourism over resident welfare.

The World Economic Forum defines it as issues arising from tourist numbers exceeding local capacity. As noted by Joseph Martin Cheer and Marina Novelli, the tourism supply chain often neglects the implications for host communities.

A Global Challenge

In early 2020, just before the pandemic, the UN World Tourism Organisation estimated global traveler numbers would reach two billion by decade’s end, with reports of 1.4 billion annual tourists currently—threatening places like Venice and various ecosystems.

Implications of Overtourism

Even as locals wish to share their culture, there’s widespread concern about the detrimental effects. For instance:

• Venice is sinking under the strain of upwards of 20 million tourists annually.
• Cultural sites in the Middle East and Europe face degradation.
• Local cost of living is escalating due to tourist spending.
• Pilgrimage sites endure disruption for likes over true reverence.

Strategies to Combat Overtourism

Organizations like the Responsible Tourism Partnership offer strategies to address overtourism:

1. Identify Key Indicators: Recognizing emerging issues to ensure proactive measures.
2. Prioritize Local Experiences: Designate local access periods to attractions.
3. Adapt Tourism Models: Encourage temporary residency arrangements.
4. Implement Tourist-specific Taxes: Encourage contributions for infrastructure and environmental upkeep.

Conclusion

Mobilizing local residents to take pride and responsibility for their heritage sites may be the most effective means to sustain their integrity for future generations.