The Mayor of Athens, Harris Doukas, has joined the chorus of local leaders speaking out against overtourism. In a recent statement to a European news outlet, Doukas emphasized the need for sustainable tourism in Athens, highlighting the economic challenges faced by the city.
Greece heavily relies on tourism, with estimates suggesting that a significant portion of the country’s GDP, ranging from 25-30%, comes from this industry. The influx of tourists has been steadily increasing, with visitor numbers soaring by 120% between 2019 and 2023.
Last year, Greece welcomed a staggering 33 million tourists, more than triple its own population. While tourism contributes to the local economy, the strain on infrastructure has become apparent, exacerbated by recent wildfires across Europe.
One of the key issues contributing to overtourism in Greece is the proliferation of short-term rentals, which has sparked debates on regulations. Katerina Kikilia, a Professor of Tourism Management, emphasized the social and environmental impacts faced by Athenians due to the housing crisis.
Similar concerns have been echoed in Barcelona, where the mayor announced plans to revoke licenses for thousands of short-term rental apartments, aiming to prioritize locals over tourists. The surge in rental prices in Barcelona, soaring by 68% since 2014, has made housing unaffordable for many residents.
The trend of overtourism is not limited to Europe. In Bali, council leader Kresna Budi has advocated for higher tourist taxes to attract a more sustainable and quality visitor base. The move aims to address the imbalance between the costs borne by locals when traveling abroad and the affordability of Bali as a destination.
As cities grapple with the challenges posed by overtourism, the need for sustainable tourism practices and responsible travel becomes increasingly apparent. Balancing economic benefits with environmental and social considerations is crucial to ensure the long-term viability of popular tourist destinations like Athens, Barcelona, and Bali.
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