Articles tagged “overtourism”

The topline takeaway: A lot of citizen-level education is still needed on benefits of tourism to local and regional economies, in an age of NIMBYism and hyper-polarization.

In an unprecedented citizen-led push against mass cruise tourism during a time of undertourism, Key West voters boldly chose to protect the environment and public health. It’s sparked hope for change across similarly challenged port communities, but at a time when destinations are desperate for tourism. What's for sure: the “reset” conversation is no longer just talk.

From overtourism to a stark absence of tourists, tourism dynamics have rocked Venice and its citizens. The new flood barrier should at least provide some assurance for awhile that at least the tides won't sink the city's prospects.

This was supposed to be the year when Japan's dedicated tourism push came to fruition with the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. But even with the postponement — and all the uncertainty — of the Games until 2021, the tourism groundwork laid by Japan is still likely to bear fruit.

Just as they've focused on building bigger and more elaborate ships, cruise lines are now seeking to outdo one another with private islands. MSC Cruises' eco-conscious approach is commendable, but will it resonate with passengers?

Airbnb has legions of critics, and it knows that its articulated stakeholder goals will get intense scrutiny. But if the company turns some of these corporate governance aspirations into reality, then it could emerge looking pretty good compared with many established travel industry companies offering just lip service.

Hawaii, with its isolated location, fragile ecosystem, and deep-rooted local culture, faces even more problems with overtourism than most popular destinations do. Tourism marketers are looking at ways to manage the situation, but it's a huge challenge.

As the global travel industry enters a new era of responsibility, how we define and measure the impact of community tourism must evolve beyond the traditional understanding of community-based tourism as a tool for community development. When done right, everyone wins – local people and businesses are empowered to thrive, travelers return home with a greater sense of connectedness, and everyone working in tourism benefits.

Despite explosive growth, cracks in the global travel sector began to multiply over the last decade. More change and trouble will come before the industry can figure itself out again.

By guiding clients toward responsible choices in how and where they travel, travel advisors can play a key part in promoting sustainable tourism. Not only do local communities benefit, but visitors come away with more meaningful experiences.