Do We Need to Take a Machiavellian Approach to Combat Overtourism?
Alan Young
VP, Hospitality Strategy, Infor | Brand Differentiation Specialist | Hotel Technology Enthusiast | Racing Fanatic | Be Kind
While my wife and I were walking down a side street in Florence during our vacation, we came upon this billboard/sign. Emblazed on the particle board were two main statements: Yankee Go Home and Tourists Not Welcome. We were taken aback, but after a little time for reflection, we began to fully understand and empathize with the locals who face a myriad of challenges these days in prime destination locations. Our industry stands at a critical crossroads in addressing the challenges of over tourism and its profound impact on local communities. We must thoroughly understand the implications on residents' quality of life and the sustainability of destinations.
Has the rise of short-term rentals driven up housing costs and placed significant pressure on rental markets? Absolutely. Are we seeing the emergence of a new kind of tourist who may lack an appreciation for or respect for the destinations they visit? Undeniably. Is there a pressing need for education to foster greater awareness and responsibility among travelers? Without question.
Florence is an extraordinary destination, overflowing with rich history, iconic artwork, and tales of the Medici family. For me, its most memorable allure lies in its wonderful culinary experiences that celebrate tradition and creativity. We plan to return in a year or two, and I remain optimistic that our industry will rise to the challenge of fostering an environment where both visitors and locals are treated with the respect and generosity they deserve. It’s essential to preserve the essence of this remarkable city while ensuring a harmonious coexistence for all who experience its magic.
I don't have any concrete answers except for those that take a somewhat Machiavellian approach. We need to begin to fully monitor a regulate the STR industry in high volume locations. Rental units available at a market price for locals are basically nonexistent in the city center of Florence due to the vast number of Airbnb's and VRBO's. Without proper regulations, I feel that the pushback on tourists vacationing in high volume locations will become substantially worse. It may get to a point where tourists will forgo destinations where they know they are not welcomed.
40+ Years in Hotel Operations | Entrepreneur | Professional Hotel Operations Consultant | CS and CX SME
1moWOW. How was it going in to restaurants and bars and retail establishments?
Co-founder and Investor at Charter and Go
1moVery interesting indeed. I sometimes wondered if this would happen since every flight I have taken over the past year has a 100% load factor.
Tourism Development Leader | Hotelier & Entrepreneur | Regenerative Travel Pioneer | Social & Environmental Changemaker
1moMaybe not Machiavellian aproach, but we definitely need a smart strategy that respects the needs of both residents and tourists. Overtourism is not just about the number of visitors, it is also about the impact on local communities and their attitudes towards tourism. Once those attitudes become negative, actions should be taken to protect those destinations and their integrity and appeal. Without such measures, overtourism risks erasing what made these places special in the first place, leaving only overcrowded spaces that no longer capture their original charm or authenticity.
Overtourism is a more serious problem than what many tourism professionals think. During the last 25 years, over 2.5 billion people were elevated from poverty to middle class status. Over the next 20 years another 2 billion people are expected to do so. Why is it important? Middle class means disposable income. Disposable income means travel. Travel has become a fundamental part of the basic human needs. After you take care of your physiological needs: food, shelter, clothing, sleep, etc., next comes health, family and…travel. This is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs 101. The question is where would people travel? Overtourism could be eased by a comprehensive private-government strategy and organization, better price management and technology: mandatory advance reservations for attractions allowing control of traffic; introducing pricing structure flattening demand toward shoulder and low seasons; local government measures to limit car/bus traffic/parking near downtown areas or near attractions, spiking hotel occupancy taxes in high season, etc. Travel isn’t and cannot be democratic. Whoever can afford the higher fees and prices, will travel in the desired seasons. Whoever cannot, will travel in the offseason.