In this episode of The Informed Traveller, the host, Randy Sharman, speaks with Paul Mutter, our Global Coverage Manager, about the growing anti-tourism movement in Europe. Paul explains why cities such as Barcelona, Zakynthos and other popular destinations are seeing resident backlash due to overcrowding, rising housing costs and pressure on infrastructure.
He highlights the challenges destinations face in balancing the economic benefits of tourism with social impacts, noting that restrictions on rentals, increased tourism taxes and off-season travel trends (known as “coolcations”) are among the measures being explored. Paul also emphasises that while diversifying tourist flows can help, high-demand locations will continue to experience strain, making sustainable management essential for the future of travel in Europe.
Listen to the full episode of The Informed Traveler.