How to avoid mass tourism?

A mass phenomenon

Tourism has seen a significant resurgence following the Covid-19 crisis, to the point that some destinations have become highly sought after, even impractical at certain times. This phenomenon, called mass tourism, harms both the quality of the stay and the preservation of certain environments. Many tourist sites have become must-see destinations due to their very affordable prices, which has concentrated a large part of the population on 5% of the destinations.

The most popular destinations and where to go instead?

France

Many destinations are overrun during the summer period by millions of vacationers, so much so that they have experienced very sharp price increases. The beaches of France, for example, are invaded every year by tourists from all over the world. From Argelès-sur-Mer to Nice, the coasts of the "French Riviera" are stormed as soon as the good weather arrives. Cities like Cannes or Saint-Tropez have in recent years become luxury spots for the wealthiest travelers.

France being a country rich in landscapes and hidden trails, discover instead the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park (in Auvergne), with more than 2000 km of trails to explore. The volcanic landscapes of the Massif Central will bring you peace and serenity in this magnificent region between Puy-de-Dôme and Haute-Loire.

Want to explore France? Here are some trip ideas available on our site:

• Parent-Child Yoga Retreat in the Morvan
• Provençal New Year's Eve in the Luberon
• Share the life of a shepherd in the Pyrenees

United States

The most important tourist site in the world remains the iconic Vegas. Indeed, this city of all excesses in California (United States) alone represents nearly 39 million visitors each year. They come to walk the streets of Las Vegas and frequent its clubs and casinos in a frenzy of grandeur.

The California coast is one of the most famous in the United States, but you can find an extraordinary landscape in the state of Oregon. The beauty of nature, made up of sea cliffs and large sand dunes, delights vacationers looking for a haven of peace. On the agenda: swimming, relaxing, horseback riding and walking will allow you to stay far from the crowds of Miami Beach (Los Angeles). You can taste seafood, clams and other shellfish, or delicious steakhouses.

Want to visit the United States? Here are some trip ideas available on our site:

• Getaway to New York
• Discover the East by train
• Brooklyn for two

Australia

One of the most touristic monuments in Australia is the Sydney Opera House, with nearly 9 million visits per year. It is one of the must-do activities when you visit Australia. However, it is constantly crowded, so much so that you have to book 2 or 3 weeks in advance to go there.

To find the tranquility of nature in Australia, you can venture into the Mataranka hot springs, where you will have the chance to admire lush landscapes of fauna and flora, far from the tourists of the big cities. You will have access to unique swimming spots in crystal-clear waters and magnificent waterfalls.

Want to discover Australia? Here are some trip ideas available on our site:

• Honeymoon in the Southern Land
• Aboriginal Experiences
• Golden beaches of the East Coast by campervan

Italy

With mass tourism, former havens of peace have turned into real tourist nightmares. This is the case of the city of lovers, a victim of its own success. Venice has become a very important tourist city, with more than 25 million tourists per year. The city authorities are considering regulating the number of visitors to prevent locals from deserting it. Indeed, Venice is overrun by all travelers looking for a destination full of charm and romance.

Instead, discover the city of Ponza, in Italy. It is home to a large fishing area and a marina lined with small restaurants, shops, bakeries, and cafes. Even though the city is full of activities, Ponza remains relatively unoccupied and calm. Without any foreign visitors: most of the "tourists" come from Rome. You will only be surrounded by locals. Venture into the hustle and bustle of the port and discover the beautiful caves of Ponza where it is nice to take a bath! You will fall in love with its bay, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy.

Want to explore Italy? Here are some trip ideas available on our site:

• Cinque Terre and Gulf of Poets Hiking
• Walks in Lombardy
• Long-distance diving in Northern Italy

Some tips to avoid mass tourism

1/ Avoid urban areas

Every year, dozens of cities are overrun by tourists, making them impractical. Prefer a rural area, which will promote responsible tourism and help relieve the cities sought after by vacationers.

2/ Discover unexplored places

There are often, close to tourist spots, unexplored trails or havens of peace unknown to vacationers. They will allow you to recharge your batteries while limiting mass tourism.

3/ Travel outside the tourist season

The majority of travelers go on vacation between June and September, with peak periods in July and August. It is therefore preferable to travel outside these periods to make the most of the tranquility. In addition, off-season prices are often more advantageous for vacationers.

4/ Participate in ecotourism

Ecotourism means traveling with respect for the environment, with the aim of discovering nature and local populations. This new travel model appeals to a part of the population that combines travel and ecology. Thus, nature lovers will be delighted and can take part in a process that promotes ecology and the preservation of the places they visit.

5/ Information and prevention

Thanks to social networks, we can now keep up to date with news from all over the world. This can help anticipate destinations that risk being too crowded. Social networks such as TikTok, Instagram or Facebook offer useful content to find good vacation deals tailored to your desires.

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