Combatting Overtourism: Tips from Travel Writer Pauline Ray
Over-tourism has emerged as a pressing issue across many popular global destinations. The UN Travel Barometer indicates that international tourist arrivals are now surpassing pre-pandemic levels, even amidst growing global security and trade tensions. To navigate this challenge and contribute positively to travel, Kiwi travel writer and former Cathay Pacific NZ corporate communications manager, Pauline Ray, shares her insights with 1News.co.nz’s Taylor Rice on how to minimize one’s impact on over-tourism.
Visit Less-Common Destinations
One of Ray’s primary suggestions is to visit less-traveled destinations. For instance, before the pandemic, she journeyed to Albania, which has seen an 80% increase in visitors since 2019. During her trip, she enjoyed the “rich history” of the country without overwhelming crowds.
Ray offered Bulgaria and Romania as excellent alternatives in Eastern Europe, rich with culture and history yet less frequented by tourists. Currently, she’s planning a trip to Turkmenistan and its surrounding regions to experience local life without contributing to over-tourism.
Stay in Less Visited Towns
When venturing to more popular countries, Ray recommends opting for smaller towns and cities. This approach not only provides a more authentic experience but also eases the pressures on heavily visited areas. For example, instead of the bustling streets of Paris, she suggests Bordeaux. In Italy, regions like Puglia offer glimpses of Italian culture without the throngs of tourists.
Even in Britain, she mentions enjoying the serene walking trails in the Cotswolds, where she encountered only a handful of people during her exploration.
Travel Off-Season
For those with flexible schedules, Ray advises traveling during off-peak seasons. This strategy can significantly reduce crowd sizes, allowing for a more enjoyable experience. For example, avoiding the July and August summer rush in Europe can mean not only a quieter vacation but also lower airfare and accommodation costs.
Traveling off-season also supports local businesses that rely on a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, aiding in the sustainability of tourist economies.
Prioritize Safety
No matter the destination, Ray emphasizes the importance of safety during travel. She strongly advocates for having travel or health insurance as a safety net. “Read the fine print on your insurance policy,” she advises, noting that it’s essential to ensure coverage is applicable to your destination.
Travelers should also familiarize themselves with local laws and customs. Being respectful of local cultures, safeguarding personal belongings, and moving in groups when possible are keys to having a safer traveling experience. For budgeting, she suggests using travel cards like Wise, which can offer better exchange rates than traditional banks.
Explore Your Backyard
For New Zealanders concerned about the effects of over-tourism, Ray highlights the beauty and diversity of local travel. She encourages exploration of New Zealand’s own landscapes, from walks to cruises in lesser-known areas. This not only helps to relieve pressure on popular tourist spots but also supports the local tourism sector.
Visiting places like Fiordland national park, where stunning views like Mitre Peak await, allows travelers to reconnect with the natural beauty of their homeland while nurturing the local economy.
By adopting these strategies, travelers can enjoy the adventure and curiosity that comes with exploring new places while ensuring that their adventures do not contribute to overtourism. Whether it’s by seeking out less common destinations, staying in smaller towns, traveling during off-peak times, prioritizing safety, or exploring local gems, every little effort counts in making travel more sustainable.