How destinations are battling overtourism in a post-pandemic world

AS THE world emerges from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic, global tourism is witnessing a remarkable resurgence.

- ZAMANDOSI CELE

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the number of international tourists, which peaked at 1.5 billion in 2019, is projected to hit 1.8 billion in 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, strained relationships between tourists and local communities.

Recently, Spain has become ground zero for anti-tourism sentiments, with protesters actively urging British visitors to "go clear home" to protect their local environment and quality of life.

This destructive trend is echoed in idyllic destinations like Venice, Italy, which aims to combat the strain of mass tourism with bold new measures.

In an unprecedented move, Venice became the first city in the world to introduce an entry fee for day visitors - set at €5 (R104) 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.

Site Garret, the local manager of Sunny Sitting, a Marketing for Flight Centre South Africa, explains that San Marco's charm has been under siege from overtourism for decades, and the move concerns shared by many coveted destinations around the globe.