The issue of overtourism is increasingly significant for many cities worldwide. Communities are demanding changes in tourism policies due to the negative impacts of mass tourism.
The Overtourism Dilemma
Overtourism results in increased pressure on housing, transportation infrastructure, and public services, leading to protests in cities like Barcelona and Majorca. Local residents express their dissatisfaction and demand change. Issues they face include rising housing costs, cultural loss, and the need to free their neighborhoods from unwanted tourist pressure.
New Approaches to Tourism Management
Traditional measures, such as limiting tourist numbers or introducing taxes, may be inadequate. More adaptive systems utilizing technology and data for better distribution of tourist flows are needed. One approach involves implementing city digital twins that allow real-time tracking and analysis of data on people movements and infrastructure loading.
Future Perspectives on Tourism
The future of tourism may involve creating hybrid economies where physical and digital life spaces interact seamlessly. This approach will facilitate the creation of more engaging and interactive tourist routes, spontaneously responding to changes in tourist flows and offering unique real-time experiences that serve both tourists’ interests and residents’ needs.
Overtourism is not just a theoretical risk, but a real threat to cultural identity and the well-being of local communities. Leveraging technology and innovative approaches to tourism management can help find a balance between the interests of tourists and local residents.