Why overtourism could ruin your next vacation | Suresh Subudhi

Overtourism creates a growing conflict between travelers and local residents, threatening the livability of popular global destinations. As tourism expands into a $15 trillion industry, the focus must shift from short-term profit to sustainable, respectful engagement. Technology, such as crowd-management sensors and personalized itinerary apps, helps balance visitor flow and reduce congestion. Beyond infrastructure, becoming a "joyful guest" requires moving away from checklist-style sightseeing toward authentic human connections and meaningful contributions to local communities. Whether through volunteering or seeking out local stories, travelers can foster positive impacts rather than merely consuming experiences. Ultimately, shifting travel habits from passive consumption to conscious participation preserves the cultural integrity of destinations while ensuring that both residents and visitors derive genuine joy from the experience.