As the world emerges from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic, global tourism is witnessing a remarkable resurgence.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the number of international tourists, which peaked at 1.5 billion in 2019, is projected to hit 1.8 billion by 2030.
However, with this booming growth comes the pressing issue of overtourism - an alarming phenomenon that threatens to suffocate some of the globe’s most cherished destinations.
Overtourism occurs when the sheer volume of visitors overwhelms a location, leading to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and strained relationships between tourists and local communities.
Recently, Spain has become ground zero for anti-tourism sentiments, with protesters actively urging British visitors to steer clear this summer to protect their local environments and quality of life.
This disturbing trend is echoed in unforgettable locations like Venice, Italy, which aims to combat the strain of mass tourism with bold new measures.
In an unprecedented move, Venice has become the first city in the world to introduce an entry fee for day visitors - set at €5 from April 2024.
With inbound arrivals booming to 4.9 million in 2023 - vastly outnumbering the local population of 49,000 - the stakes have never been higher for this ancient city.
Sue Garrett, the general manager of Supply, Pricing & Marketing for Flight Centre South Africa, explains that San Marco's charm has been under siege from overtourism for decades, and it is now a concern shared by many coveted destinations around the globe.
Garrett notes that while major cities and tourist sites continue to rely on the income generated by tourism, local governments are realising the urgency of future-proofing their landmarks and communities.
Efforts to counter overtourism are increasingly seeing measures such as visitor restrictions, tourist taxes, and temporary closures being adopted worldwide. The expert shares some measures destinations are implementing and how travellers can navigate these.
Cruise limits take centre stage
Garrett notes that the situation is further complicated within the cruise industry, which will face new restrictions in 2025 aimed at managing passenger numbers more effectively.
Destinations such as Nice, France, will prohibit cruise ships carrying more than 900 passengers, while Belfast, Maine, and Iceland are also implementing strict limits on docking. Amsterdam plans to slash the number of sea cruises in half by 2026 as part of a broader strategy to alleviate congestion in its historical waterways.
She predicts that these restrictions will lead to a surge in small-ship cruises that explore lesser-known ports, offering adventurers the chance to escape the crowds and engage with destinations in a more meaningful way.
Managing iconic landmarks
In tandem with cruise regulations, various emblematic sites are curbing visitor numbers to protect their integrity.
In Venice and Pompeii, visitor caps and entry fees are set to become the norm as caretakers strive to maintain the beauty of these landmarks without compromising local communities' well-being.
The Trevi Fountain in Rome will introduce a new reservation system that will limit visitor access, while Japan’s Mount Fuji will enforce daily visitor caps during peak seasons in a bid to preserve its natural splendour.
"Overcrowding diminishes the experience for visitors and places undue strain on residents," Garrett emphasises.
"We can expect to see more of these crowd control measures implemented globally as a means to break the overtourism cycle."
The effects of overcrowding are multifaceted, but the principle remains clear: protection and preservation of cultural heritage and environmental resources must be prioritised.
Fees for a sustainable future
To further mitigate the consequences of overtourism, a growing number of destinations are introducing or increasing visitor fees. From Venice to Greece and even to smaller regions like the Azores, authorities are seeking to raise funds for infrastructure and conservation efforts.
As a discerning traveller, understanding these costs is essential to planning trips effectively.
Garrett highlights the importance of awareness and responsible travel choices to strike a balance between exploration and sustainability.
Travellers as responsible stewards
Ultimately, she says that it falls upon travellers to engage with popular destinations mindfully. This includes embracing slow travel - spending quality time in fewer locations to allow for a richer, less frenetic experience.
Adopting a ‘this-not-that’ approach can lead explorers to less-visited alternatives, which not only eases the burden on overcrowded sites but also supports communities that welcome them.
With the future of tourism at a crossroads, the choice is clear: mindful travel can safeguard our world’s most beloved destinations for generations to come.
As Garrett aptly puts it, “By exploring beyond the usual landmarks and being intentional with our travel, we can help preserve the irreplaceable treasures of our planet.”