Some cities around the world are now literally struggling with excess visitors and viewing tourists almost like enemies. They are finding it hard to tackle problems stemming from over tourism.Published on : Thursday, March 22, 2018
Some cities around the world are now literally struggling with excess visitors and viewing tourists almost like enemies. They are finding it hard to tackle problems stemming from over tourism.
Popular cities like Venice are planning to divert massive cruise liners. Barcelona has cracked down on apartment rentals.
Both are ramping up efforts to get a grip on “over tourism,” a phenomenon that can disrupt communities, imperil fragile buildings and harm the experience of travelers.
Tourism-phobia has become alarming in popular destinations, particularly major cities in Europe where visitors often congregate at the same places at the same time.
Slogans such as “Tourists Go Home” and “Tourists Are Terrorists” have been heard, which are clear signs of hostile response.
Dr. Taleb Rifai, the former Secretary General of the UNWTO, spoke about the phenomenon at the World Travel Market, an industry meeting in London. Rifai said tourism must be managed in a “sustainable and responsible” way that benefits communities.
Some countries are taking hard-line measures to curb over tourism. Ecuador permits only 100,000 visitors to the Galapagos Islands each year.
The Croatian city of Dubrovnik is considering permitting only 4,000 visitors daily. Visitors have flooded the Adriatic Sea town since it was used as a setting for the television series “Game of Thrones.” Other cities are urging tourists to visit less famous parts of town.
Prague, for example, has an “off the beaten track” tourist program. London is promoting lesser known neighborhoods such as Greenwich and Richmond.
Gloria Guevara, the President and CEO of the WTTC said, “There is no one solution for all. Every destination is different.”
Tags: Global, Tourism news