Over-tourism is threatening the destinations we love. The world had a welcome reprieve from it during the pandemic. However, since travel opened up, over-tourism has steadily increased to pre-pandemic levels.
So, what is over-tourism and how can we be a more responsible traveller?
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What is over-tourism?
Over-tourism happens when excessive crowds of tourists visit popular destinations, which has a negative effect on the place and its people. It may have been the location of a famous movie or TV show.
When I visited the stunning Maya Bay in Krabi earlier this year, I saw this first-hand. There are swarms of tourists everywhere and crowds are increasing daily.
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Why is it a problem?
The problem with over-tourism is it leads to:
- Overcrowding
With too many tourists in the same spot, you are shoulder to shoulder with others. The severe overcrowding usually means long waiting lines for attractions and it’s almost impossible to get a wonderful photo without having others in the frame!
- Wear and tear
Because of the heavy foot traffic, wear and tear increases at these destinations, which leads to rapid deterioration of the environment and infrastructure. Without maintenance and big money spent to repair the damage, the location may not be available to future travellers.
- Cultural issues
The damage done because of over-tourism has a negative effect on the local people and their livelihood. As tourists, we need to be culturally sensitive and respectful. This leads to a more positive travel experience, we are better global citizens and we don’t upset the locals.
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Destinations on the over-tourism hit list
There are many destinations on this list. Here are a few:
- Bali, Indonesia
- Maya Bay, Thailand
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Boracay, Philippines
- Islands of French Polynesia
- Venice, Italy
- Pompeii, Italy
- Greek Islands, Greece
- Himalayas
- Mount Fiji, Japan
What are these destinations doing to counteract over-tourism? Most have introduced a ‘Tourism Levy’ that needs to be paid to visit these destinations. The money raised is used to maintain, restore and protect the environment.
Bali, Indonesia is a destination that has introduced a Tourist Levy of IDR 150,000 (at the time of publishing) that travellers must pay on arrival – Bali Tourism Levy
Some say the ‘Tourism Levy’ is a way to profit from the popularity of these tourist destinations.
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What can we do to be more responsible travellers?
A lot of the following is common sense, so here’s a reminder of how to be a responsible traveller.
- Take your rubbish with you.
Admire the beauty of the destination but take your rubbish with you. Don’t leave plastic bottles or dump them in the oceans or beaches.
- Leave the environment as you found it.
Don’t ruin the environment. Treat it with respect and follow the rules set by your destination.
- Don’t interact with the wildlife.
I know it is tempting to touch animals, but don’t. As humans, we can pass on deadly diseases and viruses to animals through our touch and breath. Let’s protect the animals, we are all they have!
- Donate.
If donations are accepted, donate any spare coins you have. Donations from tourists really help local communities and remember, its good karma.
Have you visited a place that experiences over-tourism? Comment below to continue the conversation.
Linda is an Amazon author, writer and travel blogger. Her website The Smart Travelista offers travel resources and tips via her blog, books, videos and more.
