How to avoid mass tourism?

A Mass Phenomenon

Tourism has experienced a significant resurgence following the Covid-19 crisis, to the point where certain destinations have become highly sought after and even unmanageable at certain times. This phenomenon, known as mass tourism, negatively impacts both the quality of the stay and the preservation of certain environments. Many tourist sites have become must-visit destinations due to their very affordable prices, concentrating a large portion of the population on 5% of destinations.

The Most Popular Destinations and Where to Go Instead?

France

Numerous destinations find themselves swarmed during the summer period by millions of vacationers, leading to substantial price hikes. The beaches of France, for example, are invaded each year by tourists from all over the world. From Argelès-sur-Mer to Nice, the coasts of the "French Riviera" are besieged as soon as the good weather arrives. Cities like Cannes or Saint-Tropez have recently become luxury spots for the wealthiest travelers.

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

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

• Parent-Child Yoga Retreat in Morvan
• Provençal New Year's Eve in Luberon
• Share a Shepherd's Life in the Pyrenees

United States

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

The Californian coast is one of the most renowned in the United States, but you can find an extraordinary landscape in Oregon. The beauty of nature composed of marine cliffs and large sand dunes delights vacationers seeking a peaceful haven. Swimming, relaxing, horseback riding, and walks will allow you to stay away from Miami Beach's crowds (Los Angeles). You can enjoy seafood, clams and other shellfish, or delicious "steakhouse" meals.

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

• New York Getaway
• Eastern Discovery by Train
• Brooklyn for Two

Australia

One of Australia's most touristic monuments is the Sydney Opera House with nearly 9 million visits per year. It is one of the must-do activities when visiting Australia; however, it is perpetually crowded, requiring reservations 2 or 3 weeks in advance.

To find tranquility in nature in Australia, you can venture into the Mataranka thermal springs where you'll have the chance to admire lush landscapes of flora and fauna, far from tourists in major metropolises. You'll have access to unique swimming spots in translucent waters and magnificent waterfalls.

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

• Honeymoon in 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 true for the city of lovers, a victim of its own success. Venice has become a very important tourist city with over 25 million tourists per year. City authorities are considering regulating the number of visitors to prevent locals from leaving. Indeed, Venice is invaded by travelers searching for a charming and romantic destination.

Instead, discover Ponza in Italy. It is home to a large fishing area and a nautical port lined with small restaurants, shops, bakeries, and cafes. Even though the city is full of activities, Ponza remains relatively uncrowded and calm with no foreign visitors; most "tourists" come from Rome. You'll be surrounded only by locals. Venture into the bustling port and explore Ponza's beautiful caves where it's delightful to take a bath! You'll fall in love with its bay, undoubtedly one of Italy's most beautiful beaches.

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

• Cinque Terre and Poets' Gulf Hike
• Walks in Lombardy
• Extended Diving in Northern Italy

Some Tips to Avoid Mass Tourism

1/ Avoid Urban Areas

Each year, dozens of cities are overwhelmed by tourists making them unmanageable. Prefer a rural area that will promote responsible tourism and help alleviate congested cities favored by vacationers.

2/ Discover Unexplored Places

Often near tourist spots are unexplored beaten paths or unknown havens where travelers can rejuvenate while limiting mass tourism.

3/ Travel Off-Peak Season

Most travelers go on vacation between June and September with major movement periods in July and August. Therefore, it’s preferable to travel outside these periods to enjoy maximum tranquility. Moreover, off-season prices are often more advantageous for vacationers.

4/ Participate in Ecotourism

Ecotourism means traveling while respecting the environment with an aim to discover nature and local populations. This new travel model appeals to part of the population combining travel with ecology so nature enthusiasts can be fulfilled and engage in processes promoting ecology and preserving places they visit.

5/ Information and Prevention

With social networks today it’s possible to stay informed about news from around the world allowing anticipation for destinations at risk of being overcrowded. Social networks like TikTok Instagram or Facebook offer useful content for finding holiday tips tailored to your desires.

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