With overtourism in the spotlight as the travel industry continues to rebound after the pandemic, popular destinations around the world are feeling the strain.
Author
Amy Errmann
Senior Lecturer, Marketing & International Business, Auckland University of Technology
Bali is overwhelmed by , Australia’s sacred sites have suffered , New York is facing rising rents , and Singapore’s scenic spots are becoming .
Frustrated locals are pushing back – from in Barcelona to . As the northern hemisphere high season ends, Aotearoa New Zealand is preparing for an influx of visitors ahead of its summer tourism season.
And much like those other , the government is looking at how to manage the negative effects of tourism on local communities and the environment. This includes tripling the from NZ$35 to $100.
The aim of the increase is to who are more mindful of their impact and willing to contribute to its mitigation, while also to protect the country’s unique landscapes and cultures.
But are there other ways the tourism industry can evolve to ensure benefits for both travellers and the communities they are visiting? So called “slow travel” could be the answer.
Hunting the perfect photo
Overtourism isn’t just about too many people in one place. It’s also about how people travel.
landmarks draw massive crowds, and sometimes even .
Travellers often pack their itineraries with as many sights as possible, racing from one place to another in a frenzy to capture the perfect photo. This hurried approach not only creates but also limits .
And it’s not just a numbers game. The way tourists behave also plays a critical role.
A from the United Nations raised concerns about trash from tourists in developing small island states, including the Pacific Islands. According to the report, a tourist visiting these communities produced about 7kg of waste a day, compared to about 2.5kg produced by a local.
The issue is not necessarily about travelling less, but about . The tourism industry needs to be encouraging travel habits that allow both visitors and locals to enjoy tourism without compromising the integrity of the destination.
The rise of slow travel
Mindfulness – being fully present in the moment – has gained popularity since the 1970s. The concept has influenced a number of sectors, including , , and now .
It’s about at a relaxed pace, focusing on deeper connections with local cultures and sustainability. This often means and choosing eco-friendly transport.
Understanding slow travel and mindfulness is important because they create . Fast, often leaves little positive impact. Slow immersive travel, on the other hand, fosters lasting memories and reduces overtourism, pollution and cultural damage.
shows when we consciously immerse ourselves in our surroundings we can have more meaningful experiences. Surprisingly, – often dismissed as wasteful – can encourage respect and mindfulness for those who invest financially and mentally in their journey, unlike cheaper, mainstream tourism.
Activities such as ““, or engaging with , going beyond just “taking a photo for likes”.
This mindful approach can . By focusing attention on fewer experiences, their sense of awe and appreciation, making the travel more memorable.
This idea is evident in ““. Disney, for example, creates that stick in visitors’ minds. Other experiences, such as “” or can leave a contemplative impression.
By concentrating on a single aspect of a visit, it . Even in busy places like Disneyland, focusing on one unique element can make the experience feel slower and more meaningful.
The sustainability of tourism
In the , slow travel helps protect local traditions and landscapes by encouraging thoughtful visitor behaviour, such as using local guides to minimise environmental impact.
New Zealand can leverage its natural beauty to offer similar immersive experiences. (hiking), for example, can promote a mindful connection with the environment.
But even here, there needs to be a focus on balancing tourism with preservation. Popular spots, such as the Department of Conservation huts and the Te Araroa Trail, are . It is essential to educate visitors on – such as cleaning equipment – to ensure they understand their .
Travel that fosters a deeper appreciation for local cultures and environments benefits both visitors and the destinations they explore. The challenge is finding the right balance – encouraging meaningful travel experiences while still ensuring accessibility for all.
