In a world of “overtourism,” Martinho de Almada Pimentel finds himself more isolated than ever in his mountain mansion in Cintra, Portugal. The influx of 5,000 visitors a day has caused frustration and chaos, with traffic jams, short-term rentals, and rising housing prices plaguing the picturesque town.
As global tourism surges following the Covid-19 pandemic, destinations worldwide are grappling with the consequences of overcrowding and mismanagement. From protests to water management issues, the impact of overtourism is evident in popular hotspots like Spain and Japan.
However, the problem extends beyond wealthy residents like Pimentel. Locals in Sintra are organizing to demand better management from city leaders and prioritize the needs of residents over tourists. With a manifesto calling for improved communication and stricter limits on visitors, the community is pushing back against the chaos brought on by the tourism boom.
As the tourism industry continues to evolve, experts question the effectiveness of the term “overtourism” and stress the importance of crowd management and sustainable practices. With destinations worldwide looking to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental impact, the future of global tourism remains uncertain.
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