Travel and Tourism -

“4 Countries Seeking Explorers”

In recent years, growing concerns about overtourism have cast a shadow over many of the world’s most iconic destinations. Major cities such as Venice, Barcelona, and the picturesque avenues of Italy’s Cinque Terre have seen fierce protests from locals fed up with the endless hordes of tourists. These places packed with tourists have sparked debate over how tourism should be managed. However, beyond these overcrowded hotspots lie lesser-known destinations that are rich in culture and natural beauty, but yearn for more tourists. These countries offer unique experiences, diverse landscapes, and are rolling out the red carpet for those seeking something new and worthwhile. Here are four countries that are actively welcoming travelers, each with their own distinct charm.

Greenland: Adventures await in the land of ice and sky
The world’s largest island Greenland is set to become a major player in the global travel scene. With two new international airports soon to open – one in the capital Nuuk later this year and another in Ilulissat by 2025 – Greenland is preparing to welcome more visitors. This is a huge change for Greenlandic tourism. Until now, most tourists had to pass through Kangerlussuaq, a former US military base, before proceeding on smaller planes to their final destinations. The new airports mean that tourists will be able to fly directly into the heart of Greenland, making it more accessible than ever.

Greenland’s tourism strategy focuses on two main areas: adventure tourism and year-round travel. For adventure seekers, the island offers thrilling experiences such as rock climbing in eastern Greenland, whale watching in its icy waters, and camping on the vast Greenland Ice Sheet. However, in winter Greenland really sets itself apart with “dark sky tourism.” Travelers are invited to gaze at the stars in the remote wilderness and experience the wonders of the aurora borealis. The country has embraced its long, dark winters, building cosy sky-view cabins and igloos to provide unforgettable nights under the dancing northern lights.

Local tourism officials are cautious, however, and insist on a balanced approach. They want to ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt by the local population and that smaller communities are not burdened. Tany Pour, head of international relations at Visit Greenland, emphasises that it’s about quality over quantity: “Airports cost a lot, so we have to encourage a lot of tourists to come,” she says, “but we will do it in a balanced way, so as not to upset the locals.”

Morocco: A cultural celebration beyond the souks
Morocco, known for its vibrant souks, stunning landscapes and historic cities, is on a mission to double its tourist arrivals by 2030, aiming for 26 million annual visitors. With the announcement that Morocco will co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, the country sees a golden opportunity to shine on the global stage. To prepare, Morocco is rapidly developing its tourism infrastructure, building new hotels, and renovating existing ones to meet the influx of visitors.

While Marrakech, with its bustling souks and famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, is often the first stop for travelers, the World Cup is set to draw attention to Morocco’s lesser-known cities. Places like Rabat, Fez, and Tangier, where major stadiums are undergoing renovations, will be in the spotlight. These cities are culturally rich but much less crowded than Marrakech or Casablanca, offering a more relaxed experience for those looking to explore Morocco’s heritage.

Fez, often called Morocco’s cultural capital, boasts the world’s largest medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where travelers can get lost in a labyrinth of history, tradition, and crafts. Agadir, a popular beach destination, also serves as a gateway to less touristy destinations like Taroudant, known as “little Marrakesh,” where visitors can explore authentic Moroccan life without the crowds. Meanwhile, Tangier is becoming a hotspot with new luxury hotels, including the Waldorf Astoria, which aims to offer a blend of modern comfort and traditional Moroccan hospitality.

Barbara Podbiel, a Morocco expert who has been traveling the country for more than 20 years, notes that the impact of tourism is clearly visible in the cleanliness of the streets and the overall atmosphere. “Tourism has had a positive impact in Marrakesh,” she says. “You can see it in the cleanliness of the streets, it’s a lot safer, and people no longer force you to buy things like they used to.”

Serbia: The road less traveled
Serbia is emerging as a hidden gem in Europe, especially for those who love nature, history and sustainable travel. Unlike its neighbor Croatia, which has become a victim of its own tourism success, Serbia is embracing sustainable development and culturally sensitive tourism.

“Reviving Sardinia: The Secret Pasta School in an Abandoned Village”

The hills of Sardinia hold a secret that few have discovered: a hidden pasta school nestled in a centuries-old ghost town. Known as Battista, this abandoned village was once full of life, but fell into disrepair after its last inhabitants, Simonetta Bazzu’s grandparents, moved to Olbia for modern conveniences. Yet, through her passion and ingenuity, Bazzu has breathed new life into this forsaken place, turning it into a vibrant hub for Sardinian culinary arts.

A journey through time
I arrived in Battista after a scenic drive that took me through winding roads and lush valleys, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Olbia and the blue waters of Porto Cervo. As I walked past sheep who seemed unconcerned about the traffic, I felt like I was stepping back in time. Battista, with its 400-year-old stone houses and rugged charm, seemed to exist in a different era.

The house I was welcomed into was a traditional stazzu – an ancient granite dwelling typical of the region’s farmers and shepherds. Although it had been vacant for four decades, careful restorations by Buzzu’s father had preserved its historic essence. The stone fireplace, original cooking stove and traditional stone flooring all told the story of the village’s past. Still, the flat-screen TV in the corner served as a subtle reminder that even though we were surrounded by history, we were still in the present.

As I settled down on a plush white sofa, my host Simonetta Buzzu, a striking figure who resembled a young Sophia Loren, greeted me with warmth and enthusiasm. She radiated a sophisticated charm and was as charming as the setting. Her passion for Sardinian traditions and cuisine was evident in every detail of her home and her work.

Reviving a Ghost Town
Buzzu’s dream was to not only preserve his island’s culinary heritage, but to enrich it. Now, the Battista Village, transformed under his vision, reflects his commitment to this mission. The village, where his ancestors once lived, has been reborn as a culinary school and cultural center. Buzzu owns eleven of these ancient stazzu, and three of them have been revived to reflect a blend of historic charm and modern elegance.

One stazzu has been converted into a wine cellar, another into a pasta and bread museum, and the third—the two-room stazzu where Buzzu’s great-grandparents lived—has been transformed into a state-of-the-art pasta-making kitchen. This kitchen, with an outdoor wood-burning oven and a charming patio, is the centerpiece of Buzzu’s culinary enterprise.

Launched in 2019 under the name Vittoria Arimanni, Buzzu’s brand reflects his dedication to teaching traditional Sardinian pasta-making. Their mission is twofold: to preserve these culinary traditions and inspire Sardinia’s younger generation to stay connected to their roots.

A Cooking Class
Buzzu’s Pasta School is not just a cooking class; it’s a journey through Sardinia’s rich gastronomic history. During the tourist season from May to October, Buzzu offers two classes a day. Each class is not just a cooking lesson; it’s an immersive experience of Sardinian culture and history. Guests are served a sumptuous meal made from local produce, including fruits and vegetables from Buzzu’s own garden, homemade cheese and wine.

I had the privilege of experiencing one such meal. The dining table, decorated with rustic elegance, was filled with dishes that told stories of Sardinian life. Rose petals adorned wooden plates, and crusty bread was served with homemade lemon marmalade and a unique powder made from dried orange peel. Each dish was accompanied by a story of Buzzu’s childhood and the traditions of his ancestors.

The highlight of the meal was the coffee, a distinctive drink that Buzzu made himself from acorns by roasting and grinding them. The coffee was rich in nutrients, reflecting the resourcefulness of his ancestors, who made do with what the land offered in times of scarcity. This historical touch is a reminder of how Sardinia’s cuisine evolved out of necessity and ingenuity.

Preserving Heritage Through Education
Buzzu’s dedication to preserving Sardinian traditions goes beyond his cooking school. He has dedicated himself to teaching these culinary arts to young Sardinians for free, with the hope that they will continue these practices and pass them on to future generations. His goal is to create an impact that fosters pride in Sardinian heritage and encourages young people to stay on the island and contribute to its cultural and economic revitalization.

The road to achieving this vision was not easy for Buzzu. After earning a law degree in Milan and managing her father’s construction company for 14 years, she faced skepticism from her family and peers when she chose to work as a pasta maker. Her father, in particular, had trouble understanding why she was giving up a successful career.

“New Zealand’s Steep Tourist Tax Hike: Boosting Economy or Detering Visitors?”

New Zealand, a country renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes and rich Maori heritage, has announced a significant increase in its entry tax for foreign tourists, which some fear could discourage potential visitors. Effective from 1 October, the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Fee (IVL) will almost triple, rising from NZ$35 (£16.52) to NZ$100 (£47.20). The decision has sparked debate among tourism sector stakeholders, highlighting the delicate balance between boosting economic growth and maintaining New Zealand’s appeal as a top global destination.

Government rationale: Boosting the economy and protecting public services
The New Zealand government has defended the move, arguing that the increased fee is vital to sustaining economic growth and ensuring that foreign tourists contribute more to public services and high-quality experiences while in the country. Tourism Minister Matt Doocey said, “Visitors place additional demands on infrastructure and services. The updated fee reflects the real cost of maintaining these standards.” He emphasized that the revised fee would still be less than 3% of the average tourist spend in New Zealand and pointed out that the country’s prices remain competitive compared to other destinations such as Australia and the UK.

Tourism industry concerned: “A barrier to visitors”

However, New Zealand’s independent tourism body, Tourism Industry Aotearoa, has raised concerns. They believe the new fee is excessively high and may discourage potential visitors, further complicating the country’s already sluggish tourism recovery after the pandemic. “New Zealand’s tourism recovery has lagged behind the rest of the world and will further reduce our global competitiveness,” said Rebecca Ingram, the association’s chief executive. She emphasized that for many travelers, especially those on a budget, such a high fee could become a key factor in deciding whether or not to visit New Zealand.

Although New Zealand holds a magnetic allure with its glaciers, mountains, volcanoes and lakes, its remote location in the South Pacific often requires expensive long-haul flights. The increase in entry taxes may make travellers think twice, especially considering that the new costs will come on top of separate visa fees for some visitors, which are set to increase from October 1.

Balancing growth with environmental and social responsibility
New Zealand initially introduced the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy in 2019, with the aim of addressing the impact of high visitor numbers on the country’s infrastructure, environment and communities. The tourism boom in the years before the pandemic had led to pressure on local resources, overcrowding of attractions and environmental degradation. The levy was seen as a means of managing these challenges, with the money being channelled into conservation efforts and improving tourism infrastructure.

However, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly halted global travel, and New Zealand’s borders were closed for two and a half years. The country did not allow foreign visitors to return until August 2022, and since then its tourism industry has struggled to return to pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, the number of international visitors remained around three million, about three-quarters of the number before the pandemic. As global travel continues to grow, there are concerns that raising the fee could hamper the revival of one of New Zealand’s most important economic sectors.

How does New Zealand compare globally?

New Zealand is not alone in imposing a tourist tax. Many countries around the world have implemented similar fees, often included in the cost of accommodation, visas or plane tickets. In Europe, for example, Spain, France, Austria and Croatia all impose tourist taxes, while countries such as Indonesia, Costa Rica, Iceland and Italy have also adopted this approach. In some cases, such as Venice in Italy, a day visit tax was recently introduced to combat over-tourism, with day visitors charged €5 on busy days.

Minister Doocey stressed that when comparing New Zealand’s entry tax to other international fees, the increase is relatively modest. Furthermore, the tax will not apply to visitors from neighbouring Australia and Pacific countries, who make up a large proportion of New Zealand’s tourists.

The tourism and sustainability debate
The debate over New Zealand’s tourist tax increase brings to the fore a broader discussion about sustainable tourism. While the tax increase aims to ensure that tourism remains an economic driver without overburdening the country’s resources, it also reflects a shift towards a more sustainable and responsible tourism model. The money generated is expected to be used towards preserving New Zealand’s unique natural heritage, such as its national parks, and supporting community-based tourism initiatives that promote local culture

Pomfret, Vermont: A Small Town’s Stand Against Social Media Tourism

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Vermont, the small town of Pomfret has long been a quiet haven, known for its spectacular autumn leaves. However, in recent years, it has become a battleground between local residents and a growing wave of social media influencers and photographers who are drawn to its vibrant fall colors. What was once a quiet, rural community now finds itself at the center of a conflict over privacy, respect, and the impact of viral fame. In response, Pomfret residents have taken drastic measures to protect their town from the massive influx of “leaf-peepers” who come to capture its beauty.

A quaint town surrounded by a social media phenomenon

Located in Vermont’s Green Mountains, Pomfret is a small town with a population of around 900. The area is renowned for its rolling hills, charming farms, and idyllic fall foliage. When you drive into Pomfret, you’ll find winding roads like Howe Hill Road that wind through sheep-filled fields and stretches of forest where red, orange, and gold fall foliage brightens the landscape. One might even spot an apple tree leaning over a carefully constructed stone wall, its fruit scattered across the ground.

This rustic setting makes Pomfret one of the ultimate New England destinations, especially during fall foliage season. However, what was once a hidden gem for a few discerning travelers has now become an internet sensation, especially thanks to the iconic Sleepy Hollow Farm. The 115-acre private property, whose picturesque winding dirt road is flanked by tall maple trees and a beautiful 1700s farmhouse, has gone viral on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. As a result, Pomfret’s quiet charm has been disrupted by a constant invasion of photographers and influencers looking for the perfect shot.

Residents reached a breaking point

What began as a small trickle of visitors eager to see Sleepy Hollow Farm soon turned into a flood. During peak leaf-picking season, the narrow roads leading to the farm were filled with cars, many of them from out-of-state. Vehicles would stop suddenly, blocking traffic on the narrow roads and creating dangerous conditions. According to Deborah Goodwin, exhibit coordinator at the Artistry Community Arts Center in Pomfret, the influx of tourists has gotten “out of control” over the past few years. Tour buses would arrive, unloading dozens of tourists at a time, often ignoring “no trespassing” signs and engaging in disruptive behavior, ranging from impromptu photo shoots to leaving trash and bodily waste on private property.

The situation reached a breaking point for many residents. Complaints began pouring into local government offices, urging officials to take action. “This is a beautiful place. It’s too bad it’s ruined for everyone,” Goodwin lamented. With tourists showing little respect for the community’s privacy and safety, residents felt their pleas were falling on deaf ears. Something had to be done.

Crowdfunding a solution to combat overtourism

In 2022, local officials tried to address the issue by turning the road beyond Sleepy Hollow into a one-way street during peak season. Unfortunately, this measure proved inadequate in preventing visitors from ignoring road rules and trespassing on private properties. Seeing the continued disruption, residents decided to take the matter into their own hands.

In 2023, a group of concerned citizens turned to crowdsourcing to raise funds for a more drastic solution. They launched a GoFundMe campaign, inspired by social media highlights of the havoc caused by tourists. The campaign detailed incidents of damaged roads, car accidents, tourists being pulled out of ditches, gardens being trampled, and residents being verbally attacked. The campaign quickly gained momentum and raised more than $22,000 from 125 donors. The funds helped the city implement strict measures to protect its streets and residents.

As a result of these efforts, city officials decided to close the roads leading to Sleepy Hollow Farm to non-residents during the fall foliage season from September 23 to October 15. The move prompted disappointment and anger from travelers who had planned the trip specifically to photograph the iconic farm. One Instagram influencer with more than 150,000 followers denounced the city’s decision, saying, “It’s a hotel and an amusement park. Bring all your friends and an RV.” However, for Pomfret residents, the closure was necessary to regain their peace and safety.

Appeal for respectful tourism
Pomfret residents insist they are not against tourists or tourism in general. In fact, they welcome visitors who come to appreciate Vermont’s natural beauty and attractions with respect and consideration for the local community. Many residents emphasize that their primary concern is safety – for themselves and for tourists. Cloudland Road, Slough

“Málaga: Tourism Crisis Sparks Local Fears”

Malaga’s Plaza de la Merced, bathed in the gentle morning sunlight, is a picturesque sight. Jacaranda trees in full bloom provide a canopy of vibrant purple, while the Obelisk monument in the centre of the square bears silent witness to history. To the side of the square, Pablo Picasso’s birthplace adds a cultural touchstone to the scene. Yet, beneath this calm exterior lurks a growing uneasiness.

Kike España, an urban planner and activist with the Malaga Tenants Union, surveys the square with a furrowed brow. He is not oblivious to the growing hordes of tourists visiting the city. For España, the influx of visitors is more than a logistical challenge; it is a profound anxiety that speaks to the very essence of Malaga.

“The situation is so saturated that Malaga has really reached a point where people feel the city is collapsing,” he explains. His words carry the weight of growing desperation. “It’s the same feeling you get when you enter a theme park,” he says. “There’s a rush of people who are consuming the city and not really inhabiting it.”

Spain’s restlessness is emblematic of a broader discontent that has spread across Spain’s major tourist destinations. The growing wave of tourism, while economically beneficial, is beginning to destroy the basic fabric of local life. This conflict between economic benefits and quality of life is becoming a focal point of civic debate and protest.

In late June, thousands of Malaga residents took to the streets to protest the adverse effects of tourism. The demonstration highlighted a growing sense of disenfranchisement among locals who feel cornered by the booming tourism industry. Issues such as rising housing costs, gentrification and heavy crowds have fueled this discontent.

Malaga is not alone in its struggle. Over the summer, protests have occurred in other Spanish cities and regions, including Barcelona, Alicante and the Canary and Balearic Islands. Activists in Tenerife staged a three-week hunger strike against the construction of a new tourist megaproject. In Barcelona, protesters targeted foreign visitors with water pistols, and waved banners bearing slogans such as “Tourism kills the city” and “Tourists go home”.

Spain has long been a magnet for international visitors, with its picturesque coastline, historic cities and vibrant culture attracting millions each year. The country’s tourism industry, which represents around 13% of the national GDP, has bounced back strongly from the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2023, Spain will welcome 85 million foreign tourists, and is expected to surpass 90 million in the current year. This puts Spain behind France, the world’s leading tourist destination.

José Luis Zoreda, president of tourism industry association Exceltur, emphasises the economic benefits tourism brings. He points out that the industry is responsible for around €200 billion in direct and indirect economic activity this year. Furthermore, tourism has played a key role in Spain’s economic recovery, contributing 80% of the country’s GDP growth in 2023.

While the economic benefits are undeniable, the increase in tourist numbers has led to a point where the negative impacts are becoming more evident. “Tourism used to be seen as a positive economic activity that is a big part of our GDP, but the numbers have become so large in terms of international arrivals that we are now seeing negative impacts, especially in cities,” says Paco Femenia-Serra, lecturer in tourism and geography at the Complutense University of Madrid.

The elements that make cities attractive to tourists – their historic charm, lively streets and unique character – are diminishing due to the sheer number of visitors. Locals are increasingly facing a lack of recognition in their neighbourhoods, as the influx of tourists drives up prices and sometimes transforms familiar neighbourhoods into tourist-centric areas. Small businesses are being pushed out in favour of franchise restaurants, bars and shops that cater to transient visitors rather than the community.

The most pressing issue, however, is the impact on housing. In Malaga, a significant portion of residential properties have been converted into short-term rentals aimed at tourists. A recent study by El País found that a quarter of all apartments around the Plaza de la Merced are rented out to tourists. This shift has exacerbated the housing shortage for locals, pushing rental prices to unaffordable levels.

With the average salary in Andalusia hovering around €1,600 per month, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find an apartment for less than €1,200-1,300. This disparity has led to a situation where locals are being forced out of their own neighbourhoods. Spain’s Housing Minister Isabel Rodriguez underlined the seriousness of the situation, saying: “If the people of Malaga have no place to live, who will provide services for tourists?”