The Czech Republic is joining other European countries in limiting tourism, particularly in Prague, by restricting short-term rentals. This move aims to address the negative impacts of mass tourism, such as rising housing costs, noise pollution, and overcrowding, while promoting a more sustainable and balanced tourism model.
Greece is implementing a new 10-euro fee for cruise ship passengers disembarking at popular destinations like Santorini, aiming to manage the increasing tourist influx and its impact on local infrastructure. This measure, initially targeting Santorini and planned for Mykonos by year’s end, reflects a growing trend of sustainable tourism practices across the Mediterranean.
The picturesque Greek island of Santorini, known for its stunning sunsets and whitewashed villages, is facing an unprecedented challenge: overtourism. The island is grappling with overcrowded streets, strained infrastructure, and a growing sense of frustration among residents. Local authorities are exploring new solutions, including a potential tourist access fee and a revised cruise ship allocation system, to manage the influx of visitors and protect Santorini’s unique charm.
The global surge in tourism, known as ‘overtourism’, has reached even the most remote corners of the world, disrupting the peace and privacy of individuals like Martinho de Almada Pimentel, who once enjoyed a secluded mountainside mansion designed for solitude.
Tourism, once seen as a force for exploration and cultural exchange, is now facing a backlash due to its environmental and social costs. Paige McClanahan, in her book ‘The New Tourist’, urges a shift towards a more mindful and sustainable approach to travel, emphasizing meaningful connections and cultural understanding over mere bucket-list ticking. She argues that travel can still be a force for good, but it requires a profound change in mindset and practices.
The reopening of the Via dell’Amore, a scenic trail in Cinque Terre, Italy, brings joy to tourists but raises concerns about the impact of surging visitor numbers on local life. Crowds, rising prices, and a shift in local businesses are causing strain, prompting officials to consider visitor management strategies like entrance fees.
Italy is bracing for a massive influx of tourists during the Ferragosto holiday, a centuries-old tradition celebrated in August. To manage the expected crowds, authorities are implementing strict measures including beach reservations, bans on certain activities, and traffic controls. This response reflects the growing challenge of overtourism in popular destinations worldwide.
A surge in tourism at Italy’s iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo mountain range has led to a backlash from locals demanding stricter regulations to protect the environment and their quality of life. The UNESCO World Heritage site, popular for its hiking trails, is facing severe congestion and damage caused by the influx of visitors. This has prompted calls for sustainable transportation options and a shift towards responsible tourism practices.
The Greek island of Rhodes, once a major tourist destination, is facing a decline in visitor numbers following last year’s devastating wildfires. Despite efforts to attract tourists back, the island’s economy remains vulnerable due to the impact of the fires and concerns about overtourism.
Greece is considering limiting cruise ship traffic to popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini due to overcrowding concerns. The cruise industry is responding by seeking out new destinations within the country, aiming to diversify tourist flow and reduce pressure on popular spots.
