Tourism has the potential to be a powerful force for peace. When tourism is carried out sustainably, it can lift communities out of poverty, foster mutual respect and understanding, promote equality, and advance environmental and social justice. It brings people together, creating opportunities for reconciliation, dialogue, and cooperation. However, for...
Dispersing tourists to less crowded locations may seem like the obvious solution to overtourism, but it’s only part of the equation. While shifting the flow of visitors can alleviate some pressure on overtouristed destinations, it doesn’t fully address the underlying problem: an imbalance in how tourism impacts local communities and...
Overtourism is transforming iconic travel destinations into overcrowded and stressed-out hotspots. These “overloved” locations are struggling with an influx of visitors, resulting in congested streets, strained infrastructure, degraded environments, diminished visitor experiences, and unhappy residents. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Dispersing the load is one part of the...
In 2016, Skift published an article titled “Exploring the Coming Perils of Overtourism” that discussed the hazards of excessive tourism in popular destinations. In the years following, the term “overtourism” appeared in countless media headlines worldwide. International tourism had been growing rapidly and exponentially, more than doubling between 2000 and...
As travelers become more aware of their environmental impact and seek conscientious travel options, the tourism industry is responding by promoting sustainability efforts. However, not all of these claims are sincere. This practice, known as greenwashing, has become increasingly prevalent in the tourism industry as businesses try to capitalize on...
SEATTLE, WA (September 27, 2023) – Today, Sustainable Travel International released the first episodes of the second season of Sustainable Travel: Where Next? in honor of World Tourism Day. Launched last year, the short-form documentary series takes viewers on a transformative journey, showcasing initiatives across the globe that are redefining...