Ethical/ Overtourism: The Dark Side of Success

The growing challenge of overtourism. Destinations that have become victims of their own popularity and are now struggling under its impact. Explore how technology, social media, and even virtual tourism have fueled the problem and how France’s proactive measures curb the effects of overtourism. Is sustainable tourism the answer to the long-lasting problem?

ARTICLES

Destination

LEGENDARY DESTINATIONS RAVAGED BY OVERTOURISM

Samuel Dorsi

Overtourism is undeniably taking a toll on some of the world's most spectacular and historically important locations. These places, once havens of tranquility and cultural richness, now often struggle with overcrowded streets, environmental issues, and a gradual fading of their unique character. We will take a look at how overtourism is affecting 25 iconic destinations – ranging from litter problems to instances where sacred sites become nothing more than backdrops for endless selfies &nda...
Sustainable/Eco/Green Tourism

FRENCH SECRET TO AVOIDING OVERTOURISM BACKLASH

Samuel Dorsi

While other European nations grapple with overtourism, France—receiving roughly 100 million tourists yearly—remains noticeably unaffected by the anti-tourism sentiment brewing elsewhere. From water gun incidents in Spain to graffiti art in Greece and sizable demonstrations in Italy and Portugal, these overt displays seem absent in France. Several factors play a role, but France's forward-thinking approach to tourism, coupled with solid infrastructure and its knack for spreading out...
Sustainable/Eco/Green Tourism

TECHNOLOGY – THE FUEL OF OVERTOURISM

Larry Brain

Global tourism's rapid expansion is causing significant problems, from stressed communities to environmental harm. While fingers are often pointed at entities like Airbnb, cruise lines, or high-spending tourists, technology quietly fuels this boom. The internet's impact on trip planning and social media's amplification of obscure places reshape tourism profoundly. The rise of AI and virtual reality (VR) introduces uncertainty, with potential for both easing and intensifying overtourism. Technol...
Sustainable/Eco/Green Tourism

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM FIGHTS MASS TOURISM AND TOURISMOPHOBIA

Andrea Hausold

Once upon a time, tourism seemed like an unmitigated economic win, but more and more, people are questioning its environmental costs and how it messes with local communities. Think carbon footprints from all the traveling and disrespect towards sacred sites – the tourism industry is definitely under the microscope, and anti-tourism vibes are on the rise. Still, the industry isn't standing still. Actually, tourism has changed quite a bit since mass tourism became a thing back in the 50s. ...