The World Travel Market in London witnessed a strong emphasis on sustainability in the tourism industry. Leading players, including EarthCheck, Sabre, and TUI Group, highlighted the need for industry-wide action to reduce emissions and combat overtourism. The session, “The Collaborative Journey to Net Positive Tourism,” underscored the crucial role of technology in enabling sustainable travel practices and the importance of collaboration with destination governments.
Venice is expanding its tourist entry fee system in 2025, impacting all travelers visiting the lagoon city. The new system, initially launched in April 2024, will now apply for 54 days between April and July, nearly doubling the previous 29 days. The fee aims to manage overtourism and control visitor flow during peak times. Learn about the new fee structure, exemptions, and potential impact on global travel.
Sicily’s popularity is booming, but Palermo’s residents are pushing back against the growing influx of tourists. This article explores the complex relationship between tourism and local communities, and how the rise of overtourism is affecting a city struggling to maintain its authenticity. From graffiti messages to protests, Palermo’s residents are demanding a more mindful approach to tourism that respects local needs.
Prague is implementing a ban on organized nighttime pub crawls, signaling a major shift towards cultural tourism. This decision aims to reduce the negative impacts of over-tourism, including noise, litter, and disruptions to residents’ lives. The city hopes to attract travelers interested in its rich history, culture, and architecture, creating a more sustainable and responsible visitor experience.
Japan Airlines and Hoshino Resorts have partnered to launch a campaign aimed at diversifying tourism in Japan by promoting both popular and lesser-known destinations. The initiative, dubbed “All-time Favorite vs. Hidden Gems,” aims to encourage travelers to explore regions beyond the typical tourist hotspots, contributing to regional growth and mitigating overtourism issues.
While tourism is often seen as an economic boon, the surge in visitor numbers to popular destinations is leading to negative consequences known as overtourism. This article explores how overtourism is affecting cities like Venice, Barcelona, Santorini, Dubrovnik, Amsterdam, Machu Picchu, Kyoto, Bali, and Goa, leading to social, environmental, and economic challenges for local communities.
Barcelona, a European gem renowned for its culture and charm, is grappling with the dark side of its popularity. Overtourism is pushing the city to its limits, with rising housing costs, overcrowded streets, and a dwindling quality of life for residents. This article delves into the complex issue of overtourism in Barcelona, exploring its impact on the city’s residents, economy, and future.
European hospitality investors are adjusting their strategies in response to overtourism and growing regulations. They are embracing sustainable practices, focusing on flexible accommodations, and exploring less crowded destinations to navigate the complex landscape of a booming but increasingly regulated industry.
European tourism is experiencing a significant shift towards shoulder season travel, with destinations like Croatia, Greece, Portugal, and Italy seeing a surge in visitors during the spring and fall. This trend is driven by factors such as milder weather, lower prices, and the desire to avoid summer crowds. Northern European countries like Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and the Netherlands are also embracing this shift, offering unique cultural experiences and outdoor activities that attract travelers during the off-peak months.
Greece, Portugal, and Spain are experiencing record tourism growth in 2024, fueled by a surge in off-peak travel. While this economic boost is welcome, it also raises concerns about overtourism, particularly in popular destinations like Santorini, Lisbon, and Barcelona. This trend is leading to tension between locals and tourists as communities grapple with overcrowding, rising costs, and environmental degradation.
