Changes in global tourism: the demand for respectful travelers

 

Thailand isn't the only place struggling with abusive tourists. As Fiji and Majorca take action against party tourists, it is clear that the popular destinations are changing their expectations for visitors. 

The government reports that more than 700 foreign workers have taken jobs meant for Thai locals.

In January, a Russian tourist damaged the governor's office in Phuket Town Hall. One notable incident involved a Swiss expatriate attacking a Thai doctor in his Phuket villa. Such incidents are part of a wider trend of abuse by tourists in Thailand.

Following protests in the Canary Islands last April, locals displayed banners with a strong message: "Tourists: Respect my land!" As peak travel season approaches, anti-tourist sentiment is rising at popular destinations. Similar protests have been seen in cities such as Barcelona, Athens and Málaga.

Residents of crowded tourist destinations want respectful visitors who respect local culture and nature, not those who drink excessively, litter and disrupt the community. Destinations around the world are now revealing their preferences. They welcome tourists who contribute to the local economy and behave respectfully, but they reject those who violate local norms and harm communities.

Tourism experts, such as Carina Renn of Aalborg University and overtourism expert Sebastian Zenker, highlight the increase in bad behavior due to the sheer number of tourists. They stress the need for tourism that benefits local people economically and promotes sustainable practices.

Changes are taking place in the industry. Initiatives such as the Tourism Pledge guide behaviour, while measures such as tourism taxes in Venice and Bhutan help manage visitor numbers. Some cities, such as Amsterdam, are also limiting accommodations to control the influx of tourists.

Zenker predicts more destinations will reject certain tourist demographics, such as Amsterdam's "Stay Away" campaign that targets rowdy British stag parties. Current issues indicate broader industry changes. Antje Martins of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council warned that if tourism is not sustainable, destinations could face serious consequences.

It is important to travel responsibly. As Martins emphasizes, these destinations are home to many people.