World Travel Market 2023: The Ongoing Struggle with Overtourism
Thousands of travel representatives have converged at London’s ExCeL exhibition centre for the much-anticipated World Travel Market trade event. As global tourism rebounds and surpasses pre-pandemic levels, new data reveals a surge in tourist numbers. However, this influx also raises significant concerns about overcrowding in popular destinations, placing immense pressure on local infrastructure and resources.
Andreas Fiorentinos, the Secretary General of the Greek National Tourism Organisation, notes, “We observe this issue prominently in instances where cruise ships visit smaller islands that lack the capacity to accommodate large volumes of tourists simultaneously. The challenge lies more in local infrastructure and management rather than the sheer number of visitors.”
Another critical aspect affected by overtourism is sustainability. The development of tourism becomes untenable when its negative repercussions—social, cultural, political, and environmental—on local communities overshadow the economic benefits. Consequently, numerous communities are expressing their frustration and concern regarding the rising tide of tourist arrivals.
Local Protests Against Overtourism on the Rise
In recent months, several European destinations have experienced a wave of anti-tourism protests, driven by apprehensions over environmental degradation and soaring rental costs. For instance, Spain has witnessed multiple demonstrations against mass tourism, particularly in vibrant cities like Barcelona and Malaga, as well as on the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.
During one notable protest, individuals marched in Santa Cruz de Tenerife to voice their concerns about the impact of tourism on their local environment and way of life.
In response to these mounting challenges, various destinations are implementing new regulations aimed at safeguarding local residents from the adverse effects of overtourism. Croatia, for example, is enacting new laws to mitigate housing challenges stemming from the constant influx of visitors.
- “We are introducing legislation requiring 80% approval from tenants in buildings where short-term rentals are permitted,” states Tonči Glavina, Croatia’s Minister of Tourism and Sport.
- “This will help ensure that we maintain a balance, allowing our apartments and residential areas to coexist more harmoniously with tourism, significantly reducing the number of tourists in residential zones.”
These initiatives emerge against a backdrop of escalating concerns over climate change and the extreme weather events that continue to impact the travel sector. The industry is not only striving to achieve net-zero emissions but is also keen to move towards a net-positive model.
As Jonathan Heastie, Portfolio Director at the World Travel Market, explains, “Statistics indicate that travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, with many actively seeking destinations that boast a lower carbon footprint. Moreover, the evolving climate is influencing shifts in travel preferences and choices.”
The World Travel Market event is scheduled to conclude on 7 November, serving as a critical platform for discussions on sustainable tourism and the future of the industry.
