Tourism can work to the benefit of all if the industry takes a collaborative approach, says Destinations International’s Don Welsh
“Overtourism” has emerged as a key issue in the travel industry due to concerns over congestion, environmental degradation and cultural erosion. A recent YouGov poll revealed that most Europeans support protests against overtourism and almost one in three Spaniards feels there are too many travellers in their locality.
As a reflection of these concerns, Greek authorities announced plans to implement a 20-euro tax on cruise ship visitors to Santorini and Mykonos, and Amsterdam banned the construction of new hotels.
While these policies may alleviate overtourism in the short term, they require thoughtful implementation. For example, limiting hotel construction must be accompanied by attention to managing the inventory of online travel accommodations such as Airbnb and Vrbo. Moreover, restrictive policies may diminish the long-term benefits that come with a steady flow of visitors. Tourism’s positive impact – from job creation to local business growth – reaches everyone who lives and works in these destinations.
It is paramount that all who are engaged in the travel and tourism industry prioritise responsible tourism to ensure residents are included in the benefits.
Travel agents may be well-placed to guide clients toward more responsible travel choices, helping travellers select destinations and experiences that both meet their criteria and have a positive impact on the communities visited. This will contribute to the well-being of residents and the preservation of local heritage, while also supporting the positive economic impact of tourism.
For example, Copenhagen launched CopenPay in July that rewarded tourists and residents with free food and discounted activities for participating in environmentally friendly tasks such as cycling and litter collection. The program illustrates how involving communities and visitors can find creative ways to reduce tourism’s environmental footprint while enhancing the visitor experience.
As the world’s leading association of destination organisations, Destinations International believes that by prioritising responsible tourism, travel agents, destinations and travellers alike can help preserve the benefits of tourism while easing the friction that can arise when local residents experience negative impacts from visitors. Among other resources, our “Community Shared Values Workbooks” can facilitate open dialogue to ensure tourism aligns with local values.
The travel and tourism industry, including destination organisations, has a shared responsibility to ensure that agents understand the importance of responsible tourism and the actions they and their customers can take to mitigate any negative impact from visitation.
Ultimately, tourism should be a vehicle to enhance the quality of life for residents by providing a sustainable visitor industry, creating equitable opportunities and preserving the destination’s history, culture and environment. Each of us in the industry have an important role to play.