Combatting Overtourism: A Closer Look at Global Tourism Challenges

The sudden return of tourists after the pandemic has brought a wave of challenges to many popular destinations around the world. Residents who once enjoyed a less crowded lifestyle are now dealing with the influx of visitors, leading to a range of issues from water management to increased house prices.

Tensions Rise as Tourists Return

In Barcelona, tensions have escalated significantly this year as pre-pandemic tourism levels have returned. Locals are facing a series of problems, including water management issues, skyrocketing house prices, and disruptive tourist behavior.

Mismanagement, Not Tourists, at the Core

According to Oliver O’Regan, a tourism expert, labeling tourists as the primary cause of overtourism oversimplifies the issue. Mismanagement of these destinations, he argues, is the root of the problem.

“The term overtourism over-simplifies things and points the fingers at tourists as the instigators or invaders. That they are the perpetrators turning local people into victims. But it’s mismanagement of the destination that causes these issues.”

Addressing the Issues Through Local Action

O’Regan believes that addressing these issues through local government action is critical. Strategies such as regulating Airbnb, restricting hotel development, tightening nightlife licensing, implementing tourism taxes, and improving infrastructure can help.

Several destinations have already implemented these measures. For instance, tourism to popular sites like the Acropolis in Athens, Machu Picchu in Peru, and the Colosseum in Rome is now regulated to manage visitor numbers.

Venice has introduced a citywide entrance fee for day-trippers, while Amsterdam closed its cruise terminal and reduced its marketing push as a tourist destination.

Florence has banned new short-term private holiday rentals within its historic center, and Portofino fines tourists who linger in iconic Instagram spots.

Strategic Planning for Sustainable Tourism

The need for strategic planning is urgent. O’Regan points out that destinations without a long-term strategy face a significant challenge.

“But many destinations don’t have any strategies. They don’t know what they’re going to do next summer. It’s up to these destinations to create a five or 10-year strategy for tourism.”

A well-thought-out plan can protect resources, improve local quality of life, and ensure that tourism remains a positive force rather than a hindrance.

Role of Visitors in Managing Overtourism

Responsibility for sustainable tourism extends beyond local governments. Tourists play a crucial role in minimizing their impact.

Responsible tourism encourages visitors to travel in off-seasons, visit less famous destinations, and support local services like guesthouses, restaurants, and tours.

“A lot of tourists want to do the right thing,” O’Regan said. “They want to be sustainable. They are generally not swarming around like an army destroying places. But despite wanting to do the right thing, they have no idea how.”

Information about how to support local economies and businesses is often scarce, highlighting a need for more transparency and certification systems.

Case Studies: The Frontline of Overtourism

Canary Islands

In April, thousands of people on the Canary Islands protested against tourism’s adverse effects. High visitor numbers have strained local resources and increased housing costs.

The high tourism numbers exacerbate poverty in the region, where 33.8% of residents are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, the highest rate in Spain outside Andalucia.

Protesters demand better tourism practices and question the prioritization of business over citizens.

Kyoto

Kyoto has banned tourists from private streets in its historic Gion district to reduce harassment of performers.

The strain on public transportation also highlights the infrastructure issues caused by excessive tourist numbers. Kyoto’s leaders hope a new tourist-oriented bus service will alleviate the strain.

Venice

Venice, one of the world’s most visited cities, struggles with congestion and economic imbalances due to excessive tourism.

The introduction of a €5 fee for day-trippers has met mixed reactions, with some arguing it’s ineffective in reducing peak-day overcrowding.

The city also banned tour groups larger than 25 people and loudspeakers to subtract some of the noise from the historic site.

Bali