Is Travel a Polarizing Issue?

The rise of anti-travel bloggers and social media influencers has quietly grown over the last few years. While some tout the benefits of quitting their jobs and traveling the world, others say “don’t go.” Travel is now a polarizing issue and that perception creates a crisis in some parts of the world.

A growing group of activists is calling for travelers to stop and rethink the impact and purpose. Some popular destinations are calling for immediate changes to mass tourism to help reduce already damaged infrastructure.

Here’s a look at a few of the destinations grappling with tourism damage:

Thailand

The Thai island Koh Tachai closed indefinitely due to trash and tourist overcrowding. Maya Bay, made famous in the Leonardo Dicaprio film The Beach, also closed indefinitely due to tourism damage.

Venice

Venice announced plans to charge a fee for tourists in efforts to curb damage from tourism. Environmentalists also claim waves from cruise ships are eroding the underwater support of Venice’s historic buildings.

Nepal

Tourists are reporting unruly, dangerous overcrowding on Mount Everest Basecamp. The area is also amassing an incredible amount of garbage as landfill space disappears.

Amsterdam

Amserdam’s popular Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market, closed for good, and shopkeepers blame tourists for ruining their trade.

Bahamas

Native pigs on Pig Beach in Grand Bahamas are dying and local veterinarians blame tourists. Sand was found in the pigs’ stomachs, likely caused by tourists leaving food on the beach.

In response to tourism-driven damage, more travelers are looking into sustainable travel options. According to a survey by Booking.com, 87 percent of tourists want more sustainable travel options. From booking environmentally friendly accommodations to giving back to their destination community, travelers are exploring ways to bring more purpose and less damage to their travels.