Tourists are facing increasing hostility in several countries as local residents express frustration over the impact of mass tourism on their communities. Recent events in places like Spain, Japan, and Venice highlight a growing trend where residents are voicing their displeasure through protests and new regulations, reflecting a shift in attitudes toward visitors.
Spain’s Anti-Tourism Movement
In July 2024, thousands participated in protests across Spain, particularly in Barcelona’s iconic La Rambla. Protestors carried signs with slogans such as “Tourism kills the city” and “Tourists go home, you are not welcome.” Some demonstrators even resorted to spraying water pistols on tourists dining outside, urging them to leave. Spain welcomed approximately 42.5 million tourists in the first half of 2024, marking increases of 11.5 percent from 2019 and 13.3 percent from 2023. This surge has strained local infrastructure and driven up housing costs, prompting similar protests in regions like Cadiz and Lanzarote.
Amsterdam’s Government Campaign
In Amsterdam, anti-tourism sentiment has reached official levels. The city government launched a “Stay Away” campaign aimed at discouraging British visitors from coming for stag parties or wild weekends. The campaign features videos depicting unruly behavior, including arrests and fines for public drunkenness. Despite initial evidence suggesting minimal impact on tourist numbers, the city increased its efforts in March 2024 with an online survey titled “Amsterdam Rules” to further address concerns about disruptive tourism.
Japan is also grappling with the challenges of overtourism. In 2024, international visitors to Japan surged to approximately 36.87 million, a 47.1 percent increase from the previous year, according to data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). The influx has led to overwhelming numbers in cities like Kyoto, which saw about 32 million tourists last year, more than twenty times its resident population of approximately 1.5 million. Newly elected Mayor Koji Muramasa has prioritized addressing overtourism, including a recent ban on tourist access to private alleys in the historic Gion district.
Venice’s Tourist Fees and Restrictions
Venice has taken decisive action in response to similar concerns. In April 2024, the city introduced a €5 fee for day-trippers, a move met with resistance from protest groups displaying banners such as “Welcome to Veniceland.” The city previously banned cruise ships from docking in the historic center due to ongoing protests about the negative impact of tourism on local life.
In Turkey, political unrest has significantly affected travel. Ongoing demonstrations in Istanbul and other cities have raised concerns about safety for tourists. The potential for violence has led to travel restrictions, and a 2024 UNHCR survey indicated that 77 percent of respondents in Turkey favored closing borders to refugees, the highest percentage globally. Such sentiments reflect the broader climate of unease that could deter international visitors.
Croatia’s coastal city of Split has implemented measures to combat antisocial tourist behavior. Signs warning of €300 fines for offenses like public urination and climbing on monuments signal rising tensions between locals and visitors. While these measures are not as severe as those in other countries, they indicate growing frustration among residents regarding disrespectful tourist behavior.
Iran offers a rich cultural experience and stunning landscapes, yet its political climate can deter visitors. Strained relations with Western nations contribute to the perception of an unwelcoming environment, overshadowing the renowned hospitality of the Iranian people. The potential for sudden political unrest adds another layer of complexity for international tourists.
North Korea presents unique challenges for visitors due to its strict control and surveillance. Tourists face tight regulations regarding where they can go and what they can photograph, leading to a sense of unease. Furthermore, US citizens remain banned from traveling to North Korea following the controversial case of Otto Warmbier.
Finally, Russia’s blend of cultural richness and bureaucratic hurdles can complicate travel experiences. Stringent visa requirements and a political climate often at odds with Western nations add to the challenges faced by international visitors, especially given the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The global tourism landscape is undergoing significant changes. The warm welcomes that once characterized popular destinations are increasingly replaced by rising tensions between the economic benefits of tourism and the quality of life for local residents. This shift underscores the need for a balanced approach as countries navigate the challenges of managing tourism while addressing the concerns of their communities.
