When I travel, I strive as much as possible to explore places favored by locals and off the beaten “tourist” path. I find that this is the best way to truly immerse myself in a location and its culture. For me, travel is about more than just satisfying wanderlust – it’s a means of learning, challenging assumptions, personal growth, and contributing to a better world.
The Nuanced Challenge: Overtourism
However, travel often has the potential to do more harm than good, as exemplified by the issue of overtourism. Overtourism is defined as an excess of tourists in a place that leads to overcrowding and a subsequent negative impact on the lives of citizens and experience of visitors. The Guardian recently published an article detailing this problem in parts of Catalonia, Spain.
During my husband’s and my month-long journey across Spain, covering Catalonia, the Basque Country, Rioja, and beyond, we have witnessed this firsthand. In Spain, this is particularly evident in places like Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and beaches, San Sebastián’s Old Town, and iconic sites like the Game of Thrones cliffs of Gaztelugatxe, where tourists converge in such large numbers that it erodes the very cultures they intend to experience. Consequently, these places lose their authenticity, and genuine local presence becomes scarce. This tourist-driven culture is reflected in the atmosphere of restaurants, plazas, and shops, which cater to visitors rather than preserving the true essence of the location.
This trend is especially prominent among Americans. During my stay at a hotel in Irún, a small city 20 minutes east of San Sebastián near the French border, a representative from the Basque Country Bureau of Statistics approached me to discuss my origin. He was gathering data on the origins of people in Irún and other smaller peripheral towns in the Basque Country. He was surprised to learn that I was American, and shared that Americans tend to favor staying in the more expensive accommodations in the major cities like San Sebastián and Bilboa, rather than exploring smaller towns through smaller hotels or campsites – a discovery we found to be one of the best ways to authentically experience the Basque Country. Conversely, he shared that Europeans (mainly the Dutch, Belgians, and French) and travelers from South America (mainly from Argentina and Paraguay) often opt for a more localized approach in the region.
Striking a Balance: Mindful Travel Tips
However, this does not mean that one should avoid popular attractions altogether. They are popular for a reason. The key is to strike a balance by combining these well-known sites with off-the-beaten-path, authentic destinations – something I continue to grapple with!
Here are some tips I’ve learned to help support sustainable tourism, fight against overtourism and protect local cultures, and simultaneously have an amazing adventure along the way:
- Engage in Locally Led Walking Tours: Start your exploration with locally led walking tours. These are usually guided by residents or individuals with deep knowledge of the area. They provide insights into lesser-known yet captivating spots.
- Opt for Locally-Owned Accommodations: Choose boutique hotels or rustic rural stays (in Spain search for “casa rural” or “agriturismo” stays). These locally-owned establishments offer unique experiences and insights into the true essence of the destination.
- Venture Beyond the City Center: Consider staying in peripheral areas of a city where tourists don’t frequent or nearby towns. This shift in location offers a fresh perspective and more opportunities for interactions with the local community. Another great way to do this is to search for local parks in completely random neighborhoods, and go for a walk or a run to them.
- Embrace Leisurely Exploration: Allocate ample time for each location. Allowing for spontaneous exploration enables you to discover hidden gems and engage with locals.
- Rent a Car for Exploration: If feasible, consider renting a car. It provides the freedom to venture beyond tourist hubs and immerse yourself in authentic local life.
- Experience Markets and Local Stores: Immerse yourself in local life by exploring markets and stores. Observing what locals purchase and bringing home unique finds enhances your connection with the community.
- Learn Basic Local Phrases: Familiarize yourself with a few basic phrases in the local language. This effort demonstrates respect and opens doors to genuine interactions.
- Embrace Novel Experiences: Step out of your comfort zone. Try local cuisines, explore lesser-known establishments, and allow curiosity to guide you.
In conclusion, practicing mindful and sustainable travel holds the potential for personal growth and positive global impact. By harmonizing popular sites with authentic experiences, you can contribute to culture preservation, and the fight against overtourism.