The article “Overtourism isn’t the conundrum it’s made out to be” by Ondrej Mitas, a senior lecturer at Breda University of Applied Sciences, challenges the prevailing narrative surrounding overtourism by presenting it as a multifaceted issue rather than an insurmountable single problem. Mitas argues that the tourism phenomenon often labeled as “overtourism” is inaccurately portrayed as a universal problem affecting all destinations in the same way. Instead, he suggests that the impacts of tourism vary significantly based on the specific context of each location, and thus, solutions should be tailored to address these unique circumstances.
Mitas proposes that breaking down overtourism into smaller, more manageable problems can result in more effective interventions. For example, the issues faced by a small historic town may differ vastly from those encountered by a large urban center, and hence, need different approaches. The article emphasizes the need for a nuanced strategy that considers the specific issues and benefits tied to tourism in each area. By focusing on detailed components and specific impacts, policymakers and stakeholders can craft solutions that harness tourism’s positive aspects while mitigating its negatives.
Additionally, the article underscores the dual nature of tourism’s effects. While tourism can bring economic benefits, foster cultural exchange, and promote international understanding, it can also strain local infrastructure, damage natural landscapes, and disrupt local communities if not managed properly. Mitas argues that recognizing and balancing these positive and negative effects through a contextual and component-based strategy is vital for sustainable tourism development.
In conclusion, Mitas advocates for a more granular analysis of overtourism to create more targeted and effective management strategies, thus allowing for better handling of tourism’s complex impacts. This approach promises to transform the perceived “conundrum” of overtourism into a series of solvable issues, leading to positive outcomes for both travelers and host communities.
