Overtourism is a significant issue affecting many destinations around the world, causing strain on local resources, infrastructure, and communities, as well as environmental degradation and cultural disruption.

The phenomenon of overtourism is driven by the increasing number of tourists visiting popular destinations, leading to overcrowding, high prices, and homogenization of local shops and cultures.

In cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, overtourism has become a major concern, with locals being priced out of their homes and communities due to rising housing costs and rents.

The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the global economy, but it also has a substantial environmental impact, accounting for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

To address the issue of overtourism, some cities are implementing measures such as tourist taxes, limits on tourist numbers, and restrictions on short-term rentals.

Sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and responsible travel, can help reduce the negative impacts of tourism and promote more environmentally friendly and culturally sensitive tourism.

Community-based tourism initiatives can also play a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism practices, by providing economic benefits to local communities and supporting the conservation of natural and cultural resources.

The use of technology, such as digital platforms and sustainable tourism apps, can also help promote sustainable tourism practices and reduce the environmental impact of tourism.

Overall, addressing the issue of overtourism requires a multifaceted approach that involves governments, tourism operators, local communities, and tourists themselves, to promote more sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

The economic impact of overtourism is also a significant concern, as it can lead to increased property and rent costs, forcing locals out of their homes and communities.

The reliance on tourism as a major source of income can also lead to locals being pushed out of their homes due to high costs, with 1000 people protesting in Ibiza against overtourism.

However, tourism can also generate significant revenue and create jobs, with Ibiza's tourism industry generating 45 percent of the island's GDP and creating 200,000 jobs locally.

To balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect local communities and environments, it is essential to implement sustainable tourism practices and manage tourism development in a responsible and regulated manner.

In terms of environmental impact, overtourism can lead to excessive waste generation, pollution, and degradation of natural resources, as well as the destruction of habitats and ecosystems.

The tourism industry is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with each flight from China to Taipei generating 260 kg of carbon emissions.

To reduce the environmental impact of tourism, it is essential to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing energy consumption, waste, and emissions, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation and accommodations.

The use of technology, such as renewable energy and sustainable tourism apps, can also help reduce the environmental impact of tourism and promote more sustainable tourism practices.

In conclusion, overtourism is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address its social, economic, and environmental impacts.

By promoting sustainable tourism practices, managing tourism development in a responsible and regulated manner, and reducing the environmental impact of tourism, we can help mitigate the negative effects of overtourism and promote more sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

It is essential to involve local communities, governments, and tourism operators in the decision-making process to ensure that tourism development is managed in a way that benefits both local communities and the environment.

Ultimately, sustainable tourism practices can help reduce the negative impacts of overtourism and promote more environmentally friendly and culturally sensitive tourism, while also generating revenue and creating jobs for local communities.

Overtourism is a significant issue affecting many destinations around the world, causing strain on local resources, infrastructure, and communities, as well as environmental degradation and cultural disruption.

Title:

Content: Travel expert explains how to find ‘room to breathe’ in overcrowded destinations

Some of Europe's most popular destinations have struggled to cope with surging numbers of tourists this summer. Express.co.uk spoke to an expert to find out how British tourists can avoid the crowds.

“There’s more to these places than the box office tourist sites" (Image: Getty)

Whether or , some top destinations have struggled with overcrowding this summer.

As travel restrictions fade into the past, more tourists than ever seem to be heading out to explore. Unfortunately, this means some destinations have become overcrowded.

Express.co.uk spoke to Sarah Faith, senior values writer at Responsible Travel, to find out how British tourists can escape the crowds.

Sarah told Express.co.uk : “Travelling outside of peak times is one of the best ways to avoid the crowds in popular destinations. But you could also get off the beaten track a bit.

“There’s more to these places than the box office tourist sites. Find out what the locals love, explore the surrounding villages or spend time browsing local farmer, artisan and flea markets.”

Tourists have complained of crowds in Rome (Image: Getty)

Although tourists often feel pressure to tick off a destination’s top sites, they could have a more rewarding experience heading to quieter spots.

Sarah added: “You’ll have more room to breathe, and have a more authentic experience too. Plus, you’ll help spread out the weight and benefits of tourism more. A win for everyone.”

However, when it comes to getting off the beaten track, Sarah says there are a few factors tourists should consider before booking a holiday.

She told Express.co.uk: “There are plenty of quieter destinations that offer exceptional culture and landscapes.

"You can make sure your holiday supports local people by choosing locally owned guesthouses" (Image: Getty)

“It’s important though that we don’t just transfer the problems of overtourism to another place. You can make sure your holiday supports local people by choosing locally owned guesthouses rather than Airbnbs run by out of town professional hosts, eating in restaurants that serve locally sourced produce and hiring a local guide to show you around.”

While Airbnbs can be a convenient option, locals in some top destinations have complained the properties price them out of the housing market .

Sarah said: “Places like Barcelona, Venice and Dubrovnik are great to visit, but they’re people’s homes too.

“When tourism takes over, it prices local people out of the housing market, closes local amenities and erodes the local culture and social identity that made us want to visit in the first place.

“Locals might be the first to lose out from overtourism but left unchecked, it kills off the tourist experience too. It’s in everyone’s interest to tackle the problem.”

France recently launched a campaign to encourage tourists to visit some of the country’s hidden gems. Leading attractions such as .

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The phenomenon of overtourism is driven by the increasing number of tourists visiting popular destinations, leading to overcrowding, high prices, and homogenization of local shops and cultures.

Title:

Content: Point of view
Lin Chi-yin
Lin Chi-yin: "Traveling Everywhere" and "Over-Travel"
Earlier, the Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Hsia Baolong, advocated the concept of “travel everywhere ” to fully explore Hong Kong ’ s tourism resources.
To speed up the implementation of the concept, the authorities are planning to set up a "special class" to bring together people inside and outside the Government for in-depth discussions.
In recent days, officials and legislators have expressed their views on the development of "red tourism", exploring new spots in the community, beautifying the streets, and presenting some scenes in the movies.
Simply put, it may be the story behind the attraction, or the accumulated word of mouth on social media, and every tree and grass anywhere can become a tourist attraction.
Of course, the author hopes that the "class" can launch various new ideas; and since the task of the class is to implement the concept of "travel everywhere", then how to implement the concept is the best for Hong Kong, the industry, the community and the public, the class can not ignore.
The University of Hong Kong campus has been forced by tourists, and the school has implemented reservation measures this month.
HKU itself has a complete management structure, and the university can still implement crowd control according to the situation. However, if some scenic spots that go deep into the community or even close to residential buildings are really "red hot", it may not be easy to implement crowd control.
“Everywhere travel ” is a concept, the key to implementation lies in the ability of the authorities to foresee problems. If you rely only on“ see and see ”, it is very likely that good things will turn into bad things.
“Aggressive ” Travel
In 2018, the word “overtourism ” was chosen as the Oxford English Dictionary ’ s word of the year, referring to the negative effects of overloading the area, declining quality of life and environmental damage caused by the influx of tourists to tourist attractions.
For example, Venice, Italy, which has long been affected by “overtourism ”, is not a“ once in a lifetime ” – the local population is only 50,000, and the number of daily tourists has exceeded the local population; during peak season, the number of daily visitors has even doubled.
I have friends who visited the place more than a decade ago, and they all agreed to say that people are crowded and will not go again.
In addition to Venice, some European cities or small islands with a tourism-led economy (such as the Canarias in Spain) also face the problem of job opportunities, high prices, and a homogenization of shops. Multinational companies invest heavily in hotels and holiday cottages, which also lead to higher rents, which locals can ’ t afford.
Even if tourism brings a lot of jobs to the region, it does not mean that the average person can earn a living wage.
People in these places understand the importance of tourism to the local economy, but they do not want the tourism industry to be unlimited, resulting in the resources of the whole place are only for the service of tourists.
"Tourism Hazards" and How to Deal with them
In Japanese society after the epidemic, a similar term, "tourism nuisance", has also appeared to describe problems such as traffic, noise, nuisance, and garbage pollution caused by too many tourists.
This phenomenon, in addition to the popularity of exchange rates, affordable air tickets, and people's desire to travel after the epidemic, social media will also have the effect of focusing on specific hot spots.
In the era of image-led, everyone can follow the picture, some places that were not originally planned as tourist attractions have begun to face sudden overcrowding.
Hong Kong people who love to visit Japan will not be unfamiliar with two “attractions ”: the Daokou near Enojima Electric Railway ’ s Kamakura University Station, and a Lawson convenience store in Kawaguchi-cho.
The former is the "holy place" of the popular manga "When Men are in the bottle". In recent years, the crossing has been congested with traffic due to frequent visits by tourists to "punch", local people can not get on the electric train, and some tourists are dangerous for taking good photos. Lawson is also a "punch" attraction, and the picture is a convenience store with a beautiful view of Mount Fuji. of tourists are constantly crossing the road and parking without permission, causing local residents to feel troubled.
Too many tourists can also lead to a decline in the quality of service, even in Japan, which values the spirit of “work people ”.
When I visited Japan last year, I saw some shops find ways to deal with “tourism hazards ” on their own, such as not allowing diners to take photos in the store, so that after the photos are uploaded to social media, it will cause more people to come and see them; limiting the number of diners to the number of people that the staff can serve, even if the seats are not full.
However, some tourists always find it difficult to understand the intentions behind these arrangements, and I have heard some tourists complain: "Obviously there is still a place, why not let us sit?"
When these conflicts can no longer be handled by businesses and residents themselves, how to strike a balance between “tourism ” and“ public nuisance ” will gradually become a policy issue.
The most extreme way to deal with it is to “eliminate ” popular attractions – coincidentally, the authorities of Kawaguchiko recently erected a 20-meter-long and 2.5-meter-high“ black curtain ” in front of Lawson to drive away tourists who came to take photos.
The reason why the authorities have to take extreme measures is that management alone can not prevent tourists from rushing out of the road, which is actually to "play the spot".
In addition, there are more and more tourist cities and hotspots charging tourists "admission fees" or "admission fees", but this method can not play a large role.
In Venice, for example, the city has been charging a 5 euro entry fee (about HK $42) to “overnight ” travelers since last month.
However, these fees simply cannot curb the huge demand for tourists, and the revenue is mainly used as a financial source to cope with "excessive travel", which can only cure the symptoms, not the root cause.
The Real Meaning of “Travel Everywhere ”
At this point, some people may point out that the above problems will only become problems if we succeed in attracting tourists to Hong Kong; what we have to focus on is how to get more people to come to Hong Kong.
However, how much tourism can bring to a city depends on the management and policies of the city, not on the remedial measures that can be taken.
Although the share of tourism industry in Hong Kong's economy is far less than that of the "tourist city" mentioned above, Hong Kong can't wait to see that other places are looking for countermeasures for the "tourism nuisance", and even start to turn to attack, redefine the tourism industry from the planning level and actively promote tourist education.
In Amsterdam, the Netherlands, for example, the government announced last month that it would ban new hotels and limit the number of cruise ships to return the city to a livable and tourism-friendly city. In Kamakura, Japan, people are no longer concentrated at certain points by decentralizing transportation (such as the launch of electric tricycle rental business) and proactively promoting multiple circumnavigation routes (such as the travel routes at 13 locations of Kamakura Shogunate).
The main disadvantage of post-event remediation is that the difficulty and cost of solving the problem are greatly increased, which will also affect the experience of tourists. More than 10 years ago, the North District of Hong Kong also experienced a pharmacy every few steps, and the situation of residents in the North District driving out water consignors on their own, which hurt the feelings of the people of the two places.
In particular, there are many policy issues that can be foreseen in advance, and we do not have to go through them personally before we know what the problem is (for example, the legal problems faced by cleaners under the garbage levy will not be known until the moment of trial).
Since there is a great deal of experience and policy measures in various places to refer to, the “Special Class ” must also strike a balance between tourism and city operations when formulating tourist routes and supporting packages, otherwise the attraction will only lead to losses. After the city of Kamakura solved the problem of overcrowding of tourists, the tourism industry representative of Kanagawa Prefecture (that is, the seat of Kamakura City) pointed out:“ Attraction is not tourism. ” The amount of time it takes to win is certainly not appropriate.
“Travel Everywhere ” is not just about adding tourist attractions, but promoting quality tourism in a more nuanced and proactive way to avoid problems.
The author is a public policy consultant.
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In cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, overtourism has become a major concern, with locals being priced out of their homes and communities due to rising housing costs and rents.

Title:

Content: 'I live in Tenerife - we've had enough of ignorant tourists keeping us up until 3am'

Fed-up locals in Tenerife are gearing up to march against unsustainable mass tourism next month.

By Alice Scarsi, World News Reporter

Fed up locals in Tenerife will take part in a march against overtourism in April (Image: GETTY-STOCK)

Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, welcomed a record-breaking number of tourists in 2023.

Data shared by the local Chamber of Commerce revealed more than 6.5 million people arrived on the island in 2023.

Most notably, the number of arrivals - around five million of which were international - was 600,000 higher than that recorded in 2019, before the coronavirus pandemic disrupted the tourism sector worldwide.

While tourism remains a vital sector for the island's economy, the mass arrivals have become more than a nuisance for many residents.

The large demand for short-term accommodations is one of the factors pushing up the cost of properties and rent, forcing many locals out of their homes and cities.

Particularly in southern Tenerife, some unable to pay rent had to relocate to shanty towns, motorhomes and tents.

Mass tourism is also placing local services and infrastructure under immense strain.

Moreover, as local municipalities are introducing stringent water restrictions amid a drought emergency, residents fear masses of tourists may worsen the situation on the island.

These, however, aren't the only challenging aspects of overtourism.

Josua Garcia-Garcia, 33, who works in a bar in Playas de las Americas, lamented the disregard for rules and lack of manners displayed by some visitors.

Tenerife welcomed a record-breaking number of tourists last year (Image: GETTY-STOCK)

He told the Olive Press: "It can be a nightmare when the tourists come, I only get four hours of sleep every night because of the music and noise, which keeps me up until 3am. We need stricter rules for tourists, a lot of them are ignorant of how we are suffering."

British expat Alex Kelly, 20, who works in the Rejoyce bar in Las Playas de Las Americas, said life in Tenerife has become "tough" in recent years.

Speaking about the eye-watering costs of long-term accommodations, she added: "I’m living with my boyfriend in his parents’ home because we can’t afford to move out.

"I totally get the viewpoint of the anti-tourism people, a lot of young people feel that way, the prices are crazy."

Despite many acknowledging that mass tourism is an increasing issue for Tenerife, other locals realise it is a necessary evil, as much of the economy of the island is based on it.

The frustration expressed by many locals will be publicly voiced next month.

Organisers of the protest taking place on April 20 - many of whom are groups focused on safeguarding the environment - will protest under the slogan "The Canary Islands have a limit. For a change of the model!

Their aim is to highlight how in their opinion the current tourism model has "overwhelmed" the island.

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Content: Sunday 07 July 2024
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
Abdurrahim Ali
Editor-in-Chief
Dalia Abdul Rahim
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editorial Board
Abdurrahim Ali
Editor-in-Chief
Dalia Abdul Rahim
The world.
Demonstration in Barcelona against mass tourism
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Thousands of people demonstrated in Barcelona against excessive tourism, Radio France Internationale reported.
I opened the slogan "Enough!
Some 2,800 protesters, according to police, marched to demand a change in the economic model of the most visited city in the country.
Critics of excessive tourism mainly condemn its impact on housing prices – rents have risen 68% over the past decade, according to the Barcelona City Council – but also its harmful consequences for local businesses, the environment and the working conditions of local employees.
Barcelona received more than 12 million tourists last year, according to the city council.
To facilitate residents ’ access to housing, the city council recently announced its desire to end rental of tourist apartments by 2029.
Spain, the world's second-largest tourist destination after France, welcomed a record 85.1 million foreign visitors last year.
The most visited region was Catalonia with 18 million visitors, followed by the Balearic Islands (14.4 million) and the Canary Islands (13.9 million).
Tourism in Spain accounts for 12.8% of GDP and 12.6% of jobs.

The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the global economy, but it also has a substantial environmental impact, accounting for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Title:

Content: Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
I'm sorry.
Mohamad Elbaz
Editor-in-Chief
Wael Lotfy
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
I'm sorry.
Mohamad Elbaz
Editor-in-Chief
Wael Lotfy
The Guardian: Tourism contributes significantly to the climate crisis
It is a terrible paradox of the climate crisis that some of the most beautiful – and popular – places in the world are also the most vulnerable, especially as most of them have poor infrastructure, which means that with rising temperatures, increasing weather extremes, drying up water sources and the death of natural habitats, these places face another devastating loss, especially tourists.
Tourism contributes significantly to the climate crisis – around 8% of global emissions – and hordes of visitors cause many problems, including excessive development and degradation of natural areas.
The revenue generated by tourists can bring enormous economic benefits to these destinations, and many do not own other forms of industry or otherwise rely on extractive industries such as mining or logging.
She added that tourism can also spread awareness of environmental problems, such as bleaching coral reefs or endangered animal species, and provide funding for conservation efforts.
This complex relationship was highlighted during the coronavirus outbreak, when tourism stopped, carbon emissions dropped, wildlife flourished, and leatherback turtles in Thailand laid the largest number of eggs in two decades, but all this has come at a cost, with the global tourism industry taking a heavy toll, triggering an emergency in developing countries, families struggling to find food, illegal logging in some places has increased, and overfishing has increased.
As the rebuilding of tourism begins, it has become impossible to ignore that the future of the industry is inextricably linked to the climate crisis.
Instead of becoming a major cause of the climate crisis, tourism can be used to raise awareness, increase tourism resources and improve infrastructure.

Title:

Content: Nearly 90% of Chinese consumers attach importance to sustainable tourism, but lack awareness of practices and costs
How can the industry collaborate to help the tourism industry move towards a "sustainable" future?
Business 14: 41 2023 / 03 / 20
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Hotel group Accor, travel service provider Ctrip Group and global management consulting firm McKinsey recently released a white paper entitled “China ’ s Eco-Tourism Pathway ”, which explores the environmental impact of China ’ s tourism industry, analyzes Chinese tourists ’ perceptions of sustainable development, and finally makes recommendations on what China ’ s key tourism stakeholders need to do to promote“ sustainable ” tourism.
[ESG Carbon Neutralization] More than 70% of Hong Kong enterprises are not familiar with carbon neutrality knowledge to promote carbon neutrality for brand image
China ’ s largest travel market in the world by 2032
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, China is expected to have the world ’ s largest travel market by 2032, which was already one of the largest before the pandemic.
The white paper analysis found that China ’ s tourism industry has a huge impact on the environment, accounting for about 6-8% of China ’ s total carbon emissions in 2019.
McKinsey ’ s data shows that Chinese travelers value their environmental impact and are already looking for sustainable alternatives, but the report found that they may need more help understanding where to get them. Ctrip found that nearly 90 percent (85 percent) of Chinese travelers rated travel sustainability as important or very important, while 60 percent were concerned about climate change.
Consumers agree that they are not used to paying
The report also found that Chinese consumers are not used to paying extra for sustainable travel.
Therefore, it is necessary to provide guidance to travelers on the cost of sustainability and highlight the industry ’ s efforts to improve the supply of sustainable products.
This will realistically demonstrate the burden to be shared and show that price increases are only short-term measures, thus increasing willingness to pay.
In response to this, the report provides recommendations on what travelers can do to make sustainable travel and empower consumers to make decisions, including booking sustainable travel options through accredited service providers, spending more time in one destination, and self-cultivating sustainable habits, such as reducing the frequency of changing towels or bed sheets and rejecting single-use plastic products.
However, passenger behavior is only the first consideration highlighted in the report.
To achieve long-term sustainability, travel product suppliers should be the first to initiate initiatives and have a responsibility to change the mindset of travelers.
Educating and supporting travellers more than asking for
The report also makes a series of recommendations for the hotel industry to support Chinese travelers ’ understanding of sustainable tourism, inspire changes in their behavior, and ultimately support the industry ’ s move towards a “net positive benefit model ”, that is,“ pay more than take ”.
These include using technology platforms to highlight online sustainable travel options, using labels to ensure travellers understand the environmental impact of their behaviour, developing incentives to encourage sustainable behaviour, and training staff to adopt sustainable thinking.
While increasing visitor awareness and the willingness to choose sustainable solutions, coupled with the adoption of more sustainable practices by individual travel providers, may help China ’ s tourism industry “win fast ” in terms of sustainable impact, lasting sustainability improvements will require a concerted effort from the entire industry.
The report concludes by calling on the hospitality industry to take action and work together to achieve a sustainable transformation of the industry in China.
This collaborative project creates a starting point for this collective thinking as a resource available to tourists and industry participants to work together to achieve positive change.
Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of Accor Group, said: “No one can make an impactful change alone. Transformation requires everyone to work together. Responsible travel in China and around the world can connect all people, support local communities, protect biodiversity, and share and foster more sustainable habits. ”
According to Jonathan Woetzel, senior partner at McKinsey & Company and president of McKinsey Global Institute, “China ’ s tourism industry is large enough to take the lead in driving the industry ’ s sustainability. As travelers return to adventure, every step of their journey provides the opportunity to make choices and take concrete actions that immediately reduce their environmental footprint (or carbon footprint). ”“ It ’ s not just the responsibility of travellers. Achieving long-term change requires a collaborative effort among all the players in the travel industry, from hotels and travel agencies to green investors and technology providers. ”
【 Greater Bay Area Tourism 】 Greater Bay Area Visitors Return to McKinsey, Hong Kong After Customs Clearance: A Pan-Greater Bay Area Business Strategy
Editor-in-Chief: Yang Jiaxuan
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To address the issue of overtourism, some cities are implementing measures such as tourist taxes, limits on tourist numbers, and restrictions on short-term rentals.

Title:

Content: Spain travel warning as historic city set to impose new ‘tourist tax’ due to ‘uncontrolled tourism’

A new tourist tax is set to be introduced in a bid to curb “uncontrolled tourism”

British tourists looking to head on holiday to Spain should be aware of an impending new charge at one of the country’s major cities.

Regional officials in Santiago de Compostela intend to impose a tourist fee in an effort to manage “uncontrolled tourism”. The historic city, which is best known as the endpoint of the Pilgrim’s Way, sees pilgrims flock to its Baroque cathedral every year, with 439,000 visiting in 2022 alone.

The planned tax is set to be introduced on hotels in the city from 2025, which will charge visitors between €0.50 and €2.50 per person, depending on the type of accommodation.

This tax could generate between €2.5 and €3 million for Santiago de Compostela per year, according to Spanish officials, with the funds to be put towards maintaining the historic city centre.

Newly elected Mayor Goretti Sanmartín said she intends to change the city from a tourist destination and theme park to a sustainable tourism destination. In a statement to local media, she said: “We want to enjoy a rich and prosperous tourism sector, but also a comfortable and breathable city.

She added: “I want a Santiago from which there is no need to flee due to uncontrolled tourism. We aspire to… enjoy a rich and prosperous tourism sector but also a comfortable and breathable city.”

Ms Sanmartín went on to say that the challenges of dealing with overcrowded tourism revolve around increasing “awareness” among the public. She explained: “It’s not so much the issue of the number of people who arrive, but of the people’s knowledge of the fact that the basic norms of coexistence must be respected, and respect and care for the heritage must be guaranteed. It’s more an issue of awareness that we have to address from the very beginning.”

The Mayor cited several challenges including sanitation, security and historical heritage management, which require major financial investment and said this would be covered by the tourist fee.

Santiago de Compostela is not the only Spanish destination where holidaymakers face paying higher costs, as several holiday hotspots have already introduced a ‘tourist tax’, which sees visitors charged a fee for staying overnight.

Catalonia, which includes Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands, including Mallorca and Ibiza, implemented such a tax in 2012 and 2016 respectively, requiring tourists to pay up to €4.00 (£3.50) per night during their stay.

In 2021, the regional government approved an increase in the surcharge to allow Barcelona city council to charge up to €4.00 per night. As of 1 April this year, the maximum nightly fee tourists will pay is currently €2.75 (£2.40), but this is set to go up again from April next year to €3.25 (£2.80).

The amount tourists pay can depend on where they choose to stay in Barcelona, with five star hotels typically charging more than holiday rentals. Additonally, cruise passengers who spend more than 12 hours in Barcelona are also required to pay a fee.

In the wider region of Catalonia, tourists must pay between €0.60 (£0.52) and €3.00 (£2.60) per night, with the amount varying according to the location and the type of accommodation.

Elsewhere, councils in the Valencia region of Spain have been given the green light to roll out a charge of up to €2.00 (£1.75) per person per night. The tax was approved in the region in November 2022 and is due to take effect from December this year, with fees ranging from €0.50 (£0.43) to €2.00 (1.75) per night depending on the type of accommodation.

It means that popular destinations like the Costa Blanca and Alicante could be affected, although it will be up to individual councils in the Valencia region to decide whether or not to impose the tax. Officials in Benidorm have already said they do not wish to introduce the extra charge.

In the Balearic Islands, tourists can pay around €4.00 (£3.50) per night, depending on the category of their accommodation and time of year they visit. But upcoming elections could see this amount rise further in Mallorca, with the political party Party Més per Mallorca proposing to increase the tax by as much as 60%.

Elsewhere, the regions of Galicia and San Sebastian are considering introducing a tourist tax, while former tourism minister Reyes Maroto has also hinted at introducing a tax in Madrid if she becomes mayor.

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“Let the tourists go home! ” – Over-sightseeing is overwhelming the residents of Europe ’ s popular cities
Lisa Stüve
14 July 2024
Many of Europe ’ s holiday destinations are expected to see record numbers of visitors this summer.
However, local residents were deeply troubled by the development of mass tourism and took to the streets to protest.
Is there a solution?
Https: / / p.dw.com / p / 4iD5I
In many of Europe's most popular tourist cities, residents began to protest against the influx of tourists.
Venice is one of them, the local residents are plagued by tourism, the city's housing prices are rising, and the number of available housing is decreasing.
Venice ’ s Old Town also has a resident population of less than 49,000, compared to an estimated 20 million tourists visiting Venice each year.
Europe has the most visitors from all over the world, and Venice isn ’ t the only city to suffer from a surge in visitors.
In Barcelona and other tourist cities in Spain, there are increasing reports of local residents protesting against tourists.
In Lisbon, Prague and Amsterdam, large-scale tourism has led to growing tensions between tourists and locals.
Residents everywhere protested for the same reasons: rising rents, soaring property prices, and problems with access to resources.
Tourism is one of the economic sources
The EU estimates that tourism accounts for about 10 per cent of the economy's total output.
About 12.3 million people are employed in the industry.
“But these are just abstract numbers, ” says Sebastian Zenker, a tourism researcher at Copenhagen Business School.
He pointed out that if rents rise at the same time, property prices exceed residents' affordability, and restaurants are affordable only to tourists, then the income from tourism will not bring real benefits to local residents.
For locals, tourism development must provide them with the balance they feel – that is, liveability is not unduly negatively affected while benefiting from tourism.
Although a large number of people are employed in the tourism industry, "only a few have a good income or can make a living from it," Zeng said in an interview with Deutsche Welle.
He said low wages were a problem.
In Italy, where there is no legal minimum wage, the minimum hourly wage is 4.85 euros in Portugal and 6.87 euros in Spain.
Big tourist tax
Where did all the money go?
Paul Peeters, who studies sustainable tourism and transportation at the University of Breda in the Netherlands, says the money is mostly going to the airline industry, large hotel chains, international companies and cruise lines.
When calculating the flow of tourism, the choice of travel mode is crucial. Cruise tourists eat and drink on board, and passengers who order through large travel agencies usually sell their tickets, hotels, and meals in packages, which tend to spend less locally.
But at the same time, the arrival of tourists brings with it air pollution and water consumption – all at the expense of local residents.
This sense of imbalance has further exacerbated tensions between locals and tourists.
All stakeholders in the tourism industry understand that they need tourists, and the question is how to develop tourism and what kind of tourism to develop.
Copenhagen tourism researcher Zeng Ke said.
Restrictive marketing, rules and bans
The first policies are in place.
For example, new hotels are no longer allowed in Amsterdam.
In addition, the city is trying to control drug and party-themed tourism through targeted restrictive marketing measures.
“De-marketing ” refers to advertising strategies designed to reduce the demand for a product from a specific target group – for example, the city of Amsterdam.
In Lisbon and Palma de Mallorca, the housing market has long been disconnected from the needs of residents and economic realities.
Response: No new rental licenses will be issued to online short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb.
Mallorca has set a time limit for tourist rental housing.
Barcelona has taken a more radical step: the city ’ s 10,000 vacation apartment permits for tourists are set to expire in 2028.
The move aims to reduce pressure on the housing market.
Rents in Barcelona have risen by more than 60% in the past decade.
In addition, there will be further restrictions on the scope of cruise activities or additional charges.
From 2021, Venice will no longer allow large cruise ships to sail into its waters in its historic center.
Amsterdam plans to adopt a similar measure in 2026.
This will not only reduce the number of tourists, but also reduce air pollution.
Are tourists bad too?
Similar to Amsterdam, Mallorca wants to shake off the image of a party city.
They hope to reduce the overall number of tourists, and will be more willing to accept those who can afford to spend.
This is known in industry jargon as “high quality tourism ”.
But is this the solution to the problem?
“It ’ s not, ” says Macià Blázquez-Salom, a geography professor and activist.
He is also a resident of Mallorca.
He believes that excessive emphasis on “luxury tourism ” will only exacerbate inequality.
“‘ Party tours ’ and ‘ beach tours ’ are often limited to specific areas and operate on a scale and standardised basis similar to factory production lines, ” Blasker-Salon told Deutsche Welle.
Its immediate impact is often limited to a small part of the city.
In contrast, tourists with high spending power typically have higher demand, consume more water, tend to travel more excursions, and generally have the financial means to purchase property.
“This will further promote gentrification (Gentrifizierung) and with it the possibility of real estate speculation, ” explains Blaske Salon.
"This type of visitor will have a direct impact on the lives of all the residents," the statement said.
Making tourism sustainable
The tourism industry is still largely driven by pure data growth and is delighted with the growing number of visitors each year.
But for residents of places like Barcelona, Venice and Mallorca, further growth is no longer an acceptable option.
Is there a solution?
Peters says keeping visitor numbers within the limits of what cities and communities can afford or as a way to do it.
He said that ecological and social factors should be taken into account when formulating tourism development strategies and management measures.
For tourism to be sustainable, agreements must be reached with airlines, ports and airport operators, which are often driven by overcapacity – that is, by expanding growth.
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Title:

Content: Global News
The world today - spraying with water guns..
Are tourist expulsions spreading in Europe?
You are now following the news of spraying with water guns.
Are tourist expulsions spreading in Europe?
From the World News section and now we leave you with the full details
SAHAD MOHAMMED - Abu Dhabi on Friday 19 July 2024 04: 25 PM - Spain's tourism unrest has reached its peak in the past few days, with some locals in Barcelona spraying tourists with water guns and canned drinks, asking them to go back to where they came from.
Angry residents, numbering about 3,000, blocked the entrances to hotels and cafes in the Barceloneta neighborhood in a symbolic attempt to express their indignation at the excessive tourist overcrowding in their city.
This is not the first time tourism has been highlighted as a problem in Spain, where the country, which attracted 85 million visitors in 2023, has seen a series of protests against excessive tourism in the country, especially in the city of Barcelona with a population of 1.6 million, which received more than 7.8 million visitors in 2023, leaving many locals unable to afford to live there due to high rental prices.
Fear of Protests in Europe
Spain ’ s overcrowding problem, and the decision to confront it by locals, has highlighted the potential for anti-tourist protests to spread to the rest of Europe ’ s heavily tourist-ridden cities, as UNESCO ’ s Sustainable Tourism Project chief Peter Debrin warned.
The protests will certainly spread if European officials fail to address the negative impact of mass tourism on the lives of the local population, DeBrin says, noting that the situation in Spain has become very volatile, as the coming of civil society and its attempt to bring about change is critical, after all elected officials must respond to what the residents of their cities want.
He cited the 2021 ban on large cruise ships in Venice, Italy, which was passed after protests by residents, as cruise ships no longer pass through the Grand Canal, but are now docked away from Venice, helping to preserve the city ’ s structural and environmental integrity.
But despite the decision to ban large cruise ships in Venice, passengers continue to flock to its narrow lanes in the thousands, with Venice expected to attract about 540,000 cruise passengers this year, an increase of 9 percent compared to 2023, according to the North Adriatic Ports Authority.
In a bid to reduce crowds, Venice has imposed a 5 euro ($5.45) tourist tax on peak days this year, a measure that has so far failed to rein in tourist numbers, Euronews reported.
Quality rather than quantity tourism
Like Venice, Barcelona residents have long struggled with the global popularity of their city: every year, fewer locals say tourism benefits the city, while more people feel it is harmful, according to a survey conducted by the Barcelona City Council in 2023.
UNESCO ’ s Sustainable Tourism Project Chief Officer Peter Debrin believes that Barcelona, which handles too many travelers, could join cities and countries that rely on a “quality over quantity ” tourism strategy – prioritizing high-spending travelers, rather than budget ones – a strategy that gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, when safety and employment concerns pushed destinations around the world to take in fewer affordable travelers. Instead of a lot of budget travelers.
Debrin said Barcelona ’ s reliance on a “quality rather than quantity ” tourism strategy helps correct another problem plaguing the city: tourists who behave badly, noting that for Barcelona residents, it ’ s not just about visitor numbers, but also how people behave, with Spaniards complaining for years about tourists drinking too much, throwing garbage and cigarettes on the streets.
Debrin called on tourists to be more aware in their travel decisions, suggesting focusing on beautiful cities with fascinating tourist and cultural attractions, which are in need of more tourists.
Civil Society Demands
Civil society groups are calling on Barcelona officials to implement a number of policies aimed at “declining tourism growth, ” such as increased tourism taxes, restrictions on cruise ships, and restrictions on short-term rental housing, just like the steps being explored in Amsterdam to crack down on buses, boutiques, new hotels and short-term rentals. In 2023, it asks some visitors, especially young British tourists, to“ stay away ” if they are travelling to the city for drugs or partying.
The most popular Spanish cities with tourists
The General Coordinator of the Association of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Mediterranean States (ASCAME) Anwar Zebawi, said in an interview to the site "Economy dot Gulf", that some tourist destinations in Spain already suffer from the problem of overcrowding, and these destinations are Barcelona, Malaga, Madrid and Valencia, as these four cities attract tourists more than their capacity, and the problem is that the largest number of these tourists, come in specific months of the year. Sixty percent of all tourists who visit Barcelona each year do so during the months between July and September, creating severe congestion, while the other 40 percent is spread over the rest of the year.
Amplify for protests
Zibawi stressed that what everyone should realize, is that there is a kind of amplification of the recent protests in Barcelona,   the city has not witnessed "major" demonstrations against tourists, as the problem of the local population is never with tourists, and the people who have been sprayed with water, very few and may not exceed the fingers of one hand, pointing out that what happened was directed against those who rent houses as hotel houses. Real estate, largely, deprived the local population, especially young people, of the possibility of obtaining apartments at an appropriate rental price.
Causes of tourist overcrowding in Barcelona
Zibawi explains that one of the reasons that contribute to excessive tourist congestion in Barcelona,   is to allow tourists to stay in tourist houses and chaos in this area, the city contains about 10 thousand houses that have a license to do these works, while there are about 30 thousand hotels operating without a license and in a way contrary to the law, the offer of houses for rent at competitive prices, in addition to cheap flights available in Europe make the cost of travel to Barcelona tourist destinations. This has exacerbated the phenomenon of excessive tourism.
European cities where protests could spread
According to Zibawi, the European cities that can witness objections from the local population because of their suffering from excessive tourism, are Rome, Venice, some Italian islands, Crete in Greece, and some other Greek islands, while Amsterdam in the Netherlands, suffer from the problem of excessive tourism only, in some weeks of the year, especially at the end of the year. year.
Paris found a solution.
Zibawi pointed out that Paris had a major problem with the subject of overcrowding of tourists, and therefore prevented the work of hotel houses and raised the prices of hotels, where she saw that these steps contribute to making the cost of travel high, which prevents the tourist who does not have enough money to come, and this limits the phenomenon of overcrowding, pointing out that if the principle of quality tourism instead of quantity in Barcelona, this may solve the problem of overcrowding and contribute to the distribution of tourists in other areas. Spain.
Solutions that can be resorted to
For his part, Amer Daboussi, executive partner of Eagle Travel Travel, said in an interview with Eqtisad.al-Khaleej that cities suffering from tourist congestion can face this phenomenon by adopting a policy of "quality rather than quantity", where this policy focuses on imposing high standards of hospitality to attract rich or well-resourced tourists, and get rid of the large numbers of tourists from the middle category. h its reception, which reduces the negative effects on the local community.
Dabbousi believes that cities can also resort to the solutions of imposing tourism taxes on foreign visitors, raising hotel prices, restricting the work of hotel house rental applications by imposing financial fees on these apartments and using the revenues collected to improve infrastructure in tourist areas, in addition to the need for affected countries to market new tourist destinations within them, which contributes to attracting visitors to areas outside the main tourist centers.
Excessive damage from tourism
Cities facing the challenges of overcrowding, such as Bangkok in Thailand, Paris in France and New York in the United States, as well as some Greek and Spanish cities, must take measures to manage tourism sustainably and distribute tourism pressure in a way that preserves the quality of life of local residents and respects local culture. Eat and drink, making life more expensive for local residents.
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Are tourist expulsions spreading in Europe?
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Sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and responsible travel, can help reduce the negative impacts of tourism and promote more environmentally friendly and culturally sensitive tourism.

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Content: Wednesday 27 September 2023
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
Abdurrahim Ali
Editor-in-Chief
Dalia Abdul Rahim
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editorial Board
Abdurrahim Ali
Editor-in-Chief
Dalia Abdul Rahim
The world.
Guterres: Tourism is a powerful force that can be used to drive progress and promote mutual understanding
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said tourism is a powerful force that can be harnessed to drive progress and promote mutual understanding, but for it to achieve its full benefits, it must be protected and nurtured.
This came in a message to Guterres on the occasion of World Tourism Day, published on the official website of the United Nations, on Wednesday.
The climate emergency is currently threatening many travel destinations and the survival of tourism-dependent communities and economies.
Many developing countries that are severely affected by climate change are also facing a growing investment deficit and a cost-of-living crisis.
On World Tourism Day, we recognize the urgent need for green investments to build a tourism sector that benefits people and the planet, and governments and businesses must invest in sustainable and resilient tourism practices.
Private sector actors must adopt zero-emission pathways, reduce their energy consumption and benefit from renewable forms of energy, and all must protect biodiversity and ecological balance in all destinations.
Targeted investments can create jobs and support local businesses and industries while mitigating the environmental impacts of tourism, empowering communities, enhancing their cultures, and contributing to basic social protection systems, Guterres said.
Guterres concluded his message by calling for more efforts to harness the full potential of sustainable tourism, because investing in sustainable tourism is an investment in a better future for all.

Title:

Content: Monday, July 22, 2024 78° Today's Paper

Election

2024 Election: Kaialiʻi Kahele

Name on ballot:

Kaialiʻi Kahele

Running for:

OHA Hawaii Resident Trustee

Political party:

No answer submitted

Campaign website:

www.HawaiiNotForSale.com

Current occupation:

Hawaiian Airlines Pilot

Age:

50

Previous job history:

Hawaiʻi Air National Guard Pilot, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Lecturer

Previous elected office, if any:

State Senator, U.S Representative

Please describe your qualifications to represent the Native Hawaiian community.

I am deeply honored to represent the Native Hawaiian community, and my qualifications reflect a lifetime of commitment to our people and our culture. I am a proud Native Hawaiian from Miloliʻi, South Kona, and prior to elected office, I served as the Executive Director of Paʻa Pono Miloliʻi, a native Hawaiian non-profit dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage as well as enhancing the health and well being of the Miloliʻi and South Kona community.

I have the distinct honor of being the second Native Hawaiian elected to Congress since Statehood, where I have been a steadfast champion for Native Hawaiian and indigenous rights. My work in Congress focused on advocating for policies that protected our lands, enhanced our cultural practices, right historical injustices and supported the well-being of the Native Hawaiian people.

Furthermore, my personal life is deeply rooted in our culture. My two daughters attend Ke Kula ʻo Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu in Keaʻau, a Hawaiian language immersion school, ensuring that our family remains connected to our language and traditions. This personal commitment underscores my dedication to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage and language revitalization efforts for future generations.

I beliebe these experiences and commitments uniquely qualify me to serve and represent the Native Hawaiian community effectively.

What is the most-pressing issue facing Native Hawaiians and how would you address the problem?

The primary issue facing the Native Hawaiian community is our increasing diaspora due to economic challenges, which has led to a majority of Native Hawaiians (53%) residing on the U.S. mainland rather than in Hawaiʻi. This dispersal weakens efforts to advocate for community rights. To tackle this, focusing on the following key areas is essential:

Affordable Housing: Advocating policies for more affordable housing options to help families stay in their ancestral lands.

Economic Development: Supporting sustainable job creation, especially in sectors aligning with cultural heritage like local agriculture and renewable energy.

Education and Training: Investing in vocational programs for skills necessary in high-demand local jobs, reducing the need to seek work elsewhere.

Cultural Preservation: Strengthening Native Hawaiian identity and community unity by enhancing initiatives that protect and promote Hawaiian culture and language.

Community Support: Building networks for Hawaiians outside Hawaiʻi with virtual programs and language classes to stay connected.

Healthcare Access: Improving access to quality healthcare services in rural and underserved areas to ensure the well-being of the community.

These strategies aim to enable Native Hawaiians to flourish, maintain a strong unified voice in advocacy, and ensure community preservation and empowerment.

Do you support or oppose the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Hawaii island? Please explain.

No, I do not support the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT).

The state has a constitutional duty to protect its natural and cultural resources for present and future generations. As Justice Michael Wilson’s November 30, 2018, dissent highlights, the TMT violates the constitutional and statutory protections afforded to natural resources in the state’s conservation district. This project contravenes the Hawaiʻi Public Trust Doctrine, the Hawaiʻi Constitution, and laws concerning conservation land, specifically HRS Chapter 183C.

The TMT will cause significant, adverse impacts to the existing natural and cultural resources on the proposed project site. Mauna Kea holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for Native Hawaiians, and its conservation status should be respected. No amount of compensation, mitigation, or economic benefit can legally justify the irreversible damage that would be caused. The state’s duty to protect Mauna Kea’s natural and cultural resources for future generations outweighs any potential economic benefits.

Preserving Mauna Kea’s integrity is crucial for respecting Native Hawaiian cultural heritage and ensuring the protection of this sacred site.

What do believe is the best use of OHA’s Kakaako Makai lands and do you support building residential high-rises there? Please explain.

I believe the best use of OHA’s Kakaako Makai lands should reflect the cultural, economic, and housing interests of the Native Hawaiian community. Hakuone, OHA’s planned development in Kakaʻako Makai, should prioritize cultural preservation, housing, economic development, environmental sustainability, as well as education and innovation.

In 2012, the State settled a 32-year-old debt by conveying to OHA 30 acres of land valued at over $200 million, with the understanding that residential development was included in the value. Today, OHA owns just 30 of the 221 acres in Kakaʻako Makai, which is only 14% of the total area. Of this 14%, OHA wants to develop three parcels for residential development.

Regarding building residential high rises, I support building residential high-rises in these parcels, however, it is essential that any development is carried out in a manner that respects and incorporates our cultural heritage, promotes sustainability, and benefits the community as a whole. Residential development in this area can address the housing needs of the Native Hawaiian community while also generating revenue to support OHA’s broader mission and programs.

Here are some considerations:

Impact Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments of the potential impacts on traffic, infrastructure, and local communities.

Community Input: Engage in extensive consultations with the Native Hawaiian community, the Kakaako community, area legislators and other stakeholders to ensure their voices are heard and considered.

Mixed-Use Development: If high-rises are considered, they should be part of a mixed-use development that includes cultural, commercial, and green spaces, ensuring they contribute positively to the community.

What role should OHA play in helping Native Hawaiians cope with Hawaii’s high cost of living?

OHA should play a proactive role in helping Native Hawaiians cope with Hawaiʻi’s high cost of living. One innovative approach I would like OHA to explore is implementing a guaranteed basic income program pilot project. This initiative would provide a recurring monthly payment directly to Native Hawaiian households that demonstrate a need, aiming to supplement, not replace, existing social safety nets.

During my time in Congress, I saw the positive impact of COVID-era monthly federal child tax credit payments, which essentially functioned as a form of guaranteed basic income and lifted many families out of poverty. This experience demonstrated that putting money directly into the pockets of those struggling is one of the most impactful ways to help them immediately cope with the high cost of living or weather financial challenges.

By exploring and potentially implementing a similar program in Hawaiʻi, OHA can provide direct support to struggling Native Hawaiian households, ensuring they have the resources needed to meet their basic needs and improve their quality of life.

What role should OHA play in the reshaping of Hawaii’s tourism industry?

OHA should play a significant role in reshaping Hawaiʻi’s tourism industry to ensure it balances economic benefits with the preservation of natural resources and cultural heritage. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, which oversees destination management for Hawaiʻi, emphasizes place-based and indigenous tourism. This approach ensures visitors understand and appreciate the unique significance of Hawaiʻi, encouraging them to engage with local culture for a memorable and respectful experience.

Key areas for improvement include:

Sustainable Tourism Practices: Implementing policies that protect Hawaiʻi’s environment and natural resources is crucial. This ensures that tourism does not degrade the very assets that attract visitors.

Cultural Sensitivity: Promoting tourism that respects Hawaiian culture is essential. Native Hawaiian communities should be involved in tourism development and management to ensure their perspectives and needs are considered.

Community Involvement: Ensuring that tourism benefits local communities is vital. This can be achieved by supporting local businesses and creating job opportunities for residents, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are widely shared.

Capacity Management: Regulating visitor numbers is necessary to prevent over-tourism and the resulting strain on infrastructure and natural sites. This helps maintain the quality of life for residents and the quality of experience for visitors.

Education: Educating tourists about respectful behavior and the cultural significance of the places they visit fosters appreciation and understanding of Hawaiian culture. This can lead to more meaningful and respectful interactions between visitors and the local community.

By focusing on these areas, OHA can help reshape Hawaiʻi’s tourism industry into one that supports sustainable economic growth while preserving the cultural and natural heritage that makes Hawaiʻi unique.

What reforms, if any, would you propose to make OHA more transparent to the public?

Transparency within the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) is crucial for trust and community engagement. If elected, I will focus on enhancing transparency through these initiatives:

Open Communication Channels: Implement regular community meetings and virtual town halls to discuss OHA’s activities and decisions, allowing for open dialogue and feedback.

Accessible Information: Ensure all OHA documents, including meeting minutes, financial reports, and strategic plans, are easily accessible online via a user-friendly digital portal.

Financial Transparency: Introduce a comprehensive financial transparency policy with detailed quarterly and annual financial reports, clearly explaining fund allocation and spending.

Stakeholder Engagement: Establish advisory councils of community leaders and cultural practitioners to provide input on key decisions, ensuring diverse voices are heard.
Performance Metrics: Develop and share performance metrics for OHA programs, demonstrating progress and areas for improvement.

Cultural Education: Invest in educational programs to inform the community about OHA’s mission, roles, and responsibilities, fostering greater engagement and participation.

These measures will create an environment of mutual respect and accountability, ensuring
OHA remains a trusted advocate for the Native Hawaiian people.

What will be your top priority if elected?

If elected to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, my top priority will be to strengthen and reestablish relationships at the State Legislature while enhancing constituent services on Hawaiʻi Island. These efforts are essential to effectively advocate for the needs and interests of Native Hawaiians.

Strengthening relationships with the State Legislature involves fostering open communication, building trust, and collaborating on policies that benefit our community. By doing so, we can ensure that the voices of Native Hawaiians are heard and their concerns are addressed at the highest levels of state government.

Enhancing constituent services on Hawaiʻi Island means providing more accessible, efficient, and responsive support to our community members. This includes addressing their immediate needs, offering guidance on available resources, and ensuring that their issues are promptly resolved. My goal is to create a stronger, more connected, and better-served Hawaiian community.

Combining these efforts will help create a solid foundation for achieving meaningful progress and lasting positive impact for the Native Hawaiian community.

Is there anything more that you would like voters to know about you?

I would like voters to know that my commitment to service is at the core of who I am. Having served our nation as a combat veteran and a Lieutenant Colonel in the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard, I understand the importance of dedication, sacrifice, and leadership. My experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan have shaped my perspective on the value of national service and the duty we have to our communities.

In addition to my military service, I have dedicated the last eight years of my life to serving the people of Hawaiʻi as a State Senator and as a Representative for Hawaiʻi’s 2nd Congressional District. Through these roles, I have worked tirelessly to represent our community’s interests, fight for Hawaiiʻs working class families and advocate for policies that promote our well-being and cultural heritage. My goal is to continue this tradition of service, focusing on strengthening our community, preserving our culture, and ensuring that every Native Hawaiian has the opportunity to thrive.

With your support, I am committed to bringing my experience, dedication, and vision to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to make a lasting positive impact for our Native Hawaiians and those who call Hawaiʻi home.

View more candidate questionnaires or see more 2022 Hawaii elections coverage.

Title:

Content: HOMEPAGE

From where you go to what you do, experts share how to travel the world without destroying it

  • Traveling sustainably is about making intentional choices to serve your destination and planet well.
  • We asked experts how to make these choices when planning a trip to be as sustainable as possible.
  • This article is part of "Better Me," a series about improving your lifestyle and helping society through sustainable efforts and eco-consciousness.

Sustainable travel can feel like an oxymoron — as Justin Francis, the cofounder and CEO of Responsible Travel, a UK-based travel company that evaluates trips and vacation providers, told Insider.

The travel industry can create jobs, or it can lead to over-tourism that lowers residents' quality of life. Flights emit harmful emissions, but transport travelers to destinations where they can support local economies and participate in positive, nature-based tourism. Lodging accommodations can boost the local economy, or price residents out of their homes.

But Francis believes people can travel "in a way that not only reduces harm but actively maximizes the benefits, for both planet and people."

Five other sustainable travel experts who spoke with Insider agree and say there are actions travelers can take to lower their negative impact, support the destinations they're visiting, and have an overall better trip. They suggest considering every aspect of your trip — from where you go to how you get there — as you plan to travel more sustainably.

Kelley Louise, the executive director and founder of Impact Travel Alliance, a nonprofit centered on informing travelers to help improve the world, told Insider that traveling sustainably takes practice and being an imperfect traveler is better than not trying.

As Louise said, "It's about asking, 'How can you make little decisions that add up over time and have a positive impact on the world?'"

If you're looking for a place to start, here's what the experts Insider spoke with recommend.

First, choose a destination with the planet in mind

Go off the beaten path

Some of the experts Insider spoke with suggest skipping top tourist destinations and opting for under-the-radar spots.

"By seeking out the less-visited destinations, you will be helping to spread the economic benefits of tourism more widely and helping to avoid the negative impacts that over-tourism has on local residents," Georgina Davies — the communications manager for The Travel Foundation, a group that advocates for sustainable tourism — told Insider.

Paloma Zapata agrees. The CEO of Sustainable Travel International — an organization that works with local governments, businesses, and nonprofits to provide sustainable travel opportunities — also recommends visiting a hidden gem. If you're going to Greece, for instance, you could skip Mykonos and head to an island like Anafi or Ios with fewer tourists.

Once you've picked your destination, Davies encourages travelers to visit the region's national parks and protected areas. Often these places have entrance fees, which support conservation efforts.

Choose a destination that embraces sustainability

Jessica Blotter, CEO and cofounder of public benefit corporation Kind Travel, told Insider she looks for destinations with tourism boards that have a dedicated sustainable travel section on their website.

She recommends avoiding areas where sustainable transportation and lodging are hard to find, and "where access to nature and the outdoors is limited."

Vacation during shoulder season

Tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain without hordes of people around or exploring Niagara Falls in the winter isn't just beneficial to travelers; experts say it also supports sustainability.

Visiting destinations during shoulder seasons "spreads the benefits of tourism locally across the year and lightens the burden of over-tourism in popular destinations," Francis said. His company, Responsible Travel, has a guide that outlines the best time to visit certain destinations

Zapata added that you're also more likely to have a stress-free and special vacation if you're visiting when there are fewer crowds. "It could be even more enriching," she said. "When you're on a beach or on a sailboat and it's just surrounded by masses of people, maybe that's not the best experience."

Visit fewer places for longer

One way to travel more responsibly is to visit fewer places for longer periods of time. For example, instead of spending a week in four European countries, plan a 10-day trip to one or two.

"Fewer but longer trips mean fewer air miles, more money in local hands, and you'll have a more relaxing trip, too," Francis said. "If you can, keep shorter trips close to home or travel by land or sea." He added that these modes of travel can be an adventure in themselves, and allow you to "see so much more of a destination."

If you must travel a long distance, Blotter recommends stretching the trip as much as possible to maximize your experience. "Booking multiple, long-haul trips per year is not sustainable or carbon-friendly," she said.

Consider how you get there

Evaluate the distance for the most sustainable way to get there

The first step in deciding how to responsibly get to your destination is considering the number of people traveling and the distance you're going.

Besides biking and walking, trains are typically one of the most sustainable ways to travel, Zapata said. If your destination is accessible by train, consider that.

If you're debating whether it's more sustainable to fly or drive, Zapata said it comes down to the distance.

"A lot of times trains are going to be more energy and carbon efficient," she said. "But when it comes to a car, there comes a moment when flying is actually more carbon efficient than driving when you're talking about very long distances."

Calculators like the ones offered by the International Civil Aviation Organization and Environmental Defense Fund can help travelers map out the least carbon-intensive way to get from A to B.

If you need to fly, opt for nonstop routes and travel in economy

Flying will likely be the most unsustainable aspect of your trip. Aviation makes up about 2% of global carbon emissions and 80% of a vacation's carbon footprint comes from the flight, according to National Geographic.

Experts suggest thinking about how much you should fly in a year. For example, maybe you take one international flight a year and prioritize having the rest of your trips close to home, Louise said.

But no matter where you jet off to, experts recommend flying nonstop in economy.

"When booking long-distance plane travel, always choose a direct flight with no layovers," Blotter said. "Direct flights use less carbon dioxide than connecting flights."

Additionally, by flying in economy, as some of the experts Insider spoke with pointed out, you maximize the number of people a flight can carry by taking up less space.

Ultimately, though, the best thing you can do is reduce your carbon footprint during your trip.

Experts like Louise and Gregory Miller, the executive director of the international nonprofit Center for Responsible Travel, agree that carbon offsets act more like a Band-Aid than a solution to sustainable travel. But if they do decide to purchase carbon offsets, which reduce or remove emissions to compensate for those made during a trip, Miller suggests purchasing through a reliable, vetted program. Groups like Zapata's Sustainable Travel say they invest people's money into carbon-reducing projects centered on clean energy and biodiversity.

Think about how you pack

Pack light

The simplest advice when it comes to being a sustainable packer is to pack less, Zapata said. "Travel light," she said.
"You don't need 20 shoes to travel."

Blotter agrees and says that by packing lighter, you'll reduce carbon emissions. That's because the lighter the aircraft, train, car, or boat, the less energy is needed.

Louise added that by packing fewer items and using a carry-on, you'll get through security faster and avoid the hassle of checking a bag.

Pack reusable items

Francis suggests adding the items you use at home to your packing list. That might include a reusable water bottle, a bag for shopping, and utensils to avoid plastic cutlery.

Louise acknowledges that it might not be feasible for every traveler to carry a reusable water bottle, so she urges travelers to consider what other meaningful swaps they could make. For example, Louise said she swapped liquid shampoo and conditioner for shampoo and conditioner bars a few vacations back. The bars are lighter than liquid soaps, which means they save carbon emissions during transportation. Plus, many are packaged in recyclable paper instead of plastic.

The switch became permanent in Louise's daily life, she said, adding that it made traveling easier since she didn't have to worry about leaks or liquids at airport security. "It's a cool example of how we can look for more sustainable experiences that are also better travel experiences," she said. "Plus it opens our eyes to new habits that can help us become more conscious consumers as well."

Pack brands you support

If you're doing some pre-vacation shopping, Louise recommends buying from brands that place sustainability at the forefront of their business.

"If you're supporting corporations and brands that are working on sustainability as well, then that's going to move the needle and create change a lot quicker than we could as individuals," she said.

For tropical getaways, pack reef-safe sunscreen

If you're heading to Aruba or planning a diving trip in Belize, experts say travelers should ensure reef-safe sunscreen is on their packing lists.

"Sunscreen can be very damaging to the environment and not everybody knows," Zapata said.

Ingredients in everyday sunscreen can harm both coral reefs and local wildlife, according to the National Ocean Service. Look for a reef-safe sunscreen that lacks harmful ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, nano titanium dioxide, and nano zinc oxide.

Where you stay matters, too

Look into a hotel's claims about sustainability

Between countless certification programs and eco-friendly branding, experts agree that it can be tricky trying to evaluate whether or not a hotel is actually contributing to a destination.

When researching different accommodations, look for specifics beyond being "eco-friendly" and giving up plastic straws, Miller says. He suggests looking for hotels with written policies about how they work with local communities, prevent food waste, and help environmental initiatives like reforestation and supporting local dive sites.

If they don't have that information, Louise urges travelers to ask questions: "If they are authentically sustainable, they'll be excited to answer them."

Blotter encourages travelers to choose accommodation options that are upfront about their environmental efforts.

"Hotels that are truly eco-friendly should have a sustainability statement and clearly stated initiatives visible on their website," Blotter said. "While sustainability certifications are great and make it easier for travelers to identify sustainable lodging, not all hotels embracing eco-friendly practices will boast such certifications."

Blotter said to look for certifications from organizations that look into the foundation and practices of locations, businesses, and facilities to see if they meet their standards for sustainability and environmentalism. Some of these include the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, Certified B Corporation, and Green Globe, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and WELL Building Standard.

Although some certifications indicate a hotel is sustainable, Zapata and Miller said guests shouldn't book solely based on certifications since they can be costly for smaller resorts and hotels to acquire. "If they've made a commitment to the communities, to the destination, and they understand that they're part of the community that is what's important," Miller said.

Once you arrive, Zapata said guests should look for evidence that their accommodation is following the claims it makes. Speak to housekeeping staff, check in with chefs about the food they're serving, and see if you get new towels each morning — if you do, you could help save water by skipping this service.

Stay at mom-and-pop hotels and inns

Picking a locally owned bed-and-breakfast over an Airbnb or big hotel is going to have a more positive impact on the local community, some of the experts Insider spoke with said.

"Short-term Airbnb-type holiday rentals might feel convenient, but they're having a devastating impact on some popular destinations — pricing people out of their homes and wiping out whole communities," Francis said. "Consider opting instead for a local homestay, B&B or local-owned hotel."

Make smart decisions throughout your stay

Use public transportation

If possible, experts suggest skipping a rental car. Instead, turn to the destination's public transportation.

"Don't discount your travel in the destination," Francis said. "Try and avoid internal flights, and consider ditching the private car or tour bus. There are loads of great human-powered, local-guided tours around — by foot, bike, or even kayak."

Eat local foods

Besides the flight to your destination, food waste will likely be the second-largest contributor to your vacation's carbon footprint, according to National Geographic.

"We traditionally don't think of sustainable tourism as something like, 'Oh, I can lay on the beach and have a cocktail, and that could have a positive impact on the world,'" Louise said. But if you think about where your food comes from and the story behind that, it can have a positive impact, she added.

That means seeking ingredients that are grown nearby instead of shipped across the country and checking to make sure restaurants are hiring locals and paying them fair wages. By evaluating restaurants on these items, you'll likely get "fresher and better foods that are unique to that destination," Louise said.

Seek off-the-beaten-path activities

Most experts agree that when it comes to exploring a destination, it's worth turning to locals for advice. That might mean joining a local Facebook group, sparking a conversation on a public bus, or finding a community-based tourism program.

"Look for ways to seek out local voices and to understand how they want their destination seen," Louise said. By talking to locals, you're likely to avoid contributing to over-tourism and have a more unique experience, she added.

Another way you can approach activities is by centering your plans around a cause you and your group care about, such as ocean conservation or LGBTQ rights, Louise said.

Once you've settled on a topic, look at how your actions and the activities you choose can support that cause. For example, you might eat at restaurants owned by diverse staff or seek voluntourism opportunities to protect a nearby beach.

Blotter recommends avoiding experiences that use animals as entertainment like elephant rides, and looking for charity-run activities instead.

When you're back from the activity, whether it was a volunteer job or a locally-recommended hike, Miller said travelers should "brag about it." He encourages people who are traveling responsibly to post about their experience and use word-of-mouth to inspire others.

Buy local

Pass on the manufactured magnets, mass-produced T-shirts, and generic keychains. Instead, Zapata said travelers should search for items that are unique and crafted by locals.

"If you're going to buy a memento, buy something that's actually made there," she said. That way you ensure the money spent on the souvenir is directly supporting the community.

While all of these decisions you make as an individual matter, Miller says that ultimately "the solution to everything is to get governments and major corporations to change and reduce their emissions period."

According to Miller, that's something travelers can do in the voting booth that can go a long way.

Better Me tips for sustainable living

Slide through the following cards to read more expert advice on sustainable living. Then check out the rest of the stories from Insider's Better Me series.

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Community-based tourism initiatives can also play a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism practices, by providing economic benefits to local communities and supporting the conservation of natural and cultural resources.

Title:

Content: agricultural tourism.
A fertile ground for exceptional investment opportunities
T + T - normal size
In the UAE, amid the ongoing economic recovery, national farms have become one of the most exceptional investment portfolio fields, providing a unique tourism experience. The farms will change the map of national tourist destinations and promote agricultural practices in a way that has become an important environmental and economic driver.
10 Strategic Determinants to Promote Agricultural Tourism
From Fujairah farms to the capital Abu Dhabi, there are 23 tourist farms that contribute sustainably to supporting national tourism in a different way. There are 11 tourist farms in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, two tourist farms in Dubai, four farms in Sharjah, one farm in Ajman, four farms in Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah, and one farm in Fujairah.
After the popularity of agricultural tourism in the country in a short time, and the future outlook for its impact on the revitalization of the national economy and the preservation of natural resources in the country, Al-Bayan monitored through the views of officials and competent authorities and recent studies that this type of tourism can provide continuous self-financing that benefits the community and contributes to the development and preservation of these areas as an important economic source. Tourism is the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry, with an estimated growth rate of 10-15% of total global tourism spending.
Demo Ecology
A new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has pointed out that sustainable tourism and agriculture play a key role in enhancing livelihoods. The report stressed that the promotion of sustainable ecotourism and agro-tourism will play a vital role in creating new jobs, diversifying income and building strong economies. Community-based and well-managed tourism increases and diversifies household incomes, enhances employment and livelihoods, supports traditional systems, builds resilience, and helps preserve and enhance natural and cultural heritage.
Green thinking.
How will these green spaces change investment concepts?
Mohammed Al Dhanhani, Director of the Department of Development and Agricultural Health at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, stressed that the axis of agricultural tourism comes within the national project of ecotourism launched by the Ministry in 2018 under the slogan (the treasures of nature in the UAE), as part of its efforts to highlight tourist sites and promote them within the environmental sectors in the UAE. At the same time, he pointed out that a number of farms that provide a unique tourist experience in the country have been selected up to 23 farms in order to educate visitors and contribute to increasing the demand for locally grown products and crops.
Tourism...
Invest out of the box
He added that the concept of agricultural tourism represents a new type of tourism, and allows nature enthusiasts and lovers to learn about traditional and modern agricultural patterns and practices and learn about the techniques used in them, in addition to enjoying the recreational activities available in many plant and animal farms in the country, and provides visitors with the opportunity to buy their needs of local agricultural and animal products directly from the source at an affordable cost and high quality.
Aims
The Director of the Department of Development and Agricultural Health at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment pointed out that the axis of agricultural tourism aims to provide the National Ecotourism Project with new elements and elements of its role to enhance the country ’ s position on the global ecotourism map, and to draw a clear map of the most important environmental and agricultural landmarks in the country. Encourage farmers to develop and expand their activity by creating additional financial income, in addition to motivating the public to adopt community farming behaviors.
First stage
Al-Dhanhani said that the information of the first phase included adding all the necessary data, images and film materials about these farms from the area, the activities provided, the means available, the types of products sold, the terms and conditions of the visitor, the hours of work, the site map, communication data and fees, to inform the public about them, to the ministry ’ s website and within the smart ecotourism application.
The question here comes about the importance of establishing a national database to monitor the growth and development of the expected investments of projects in tourist farms, as there is no accurate monitoring of this aspect, and the importance of this in supporting the prosperity of this tourism, and developing it according to the outputs.
Quality to enhance competitiveness
According to the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), the volume of local agricultural production, both plant and animal, reached 707,774 tons in 2020. The Authority pointed out that agricultural production in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi achieved remarkable growth in terms of volume and value with a compound annual growth rate of 6.5% for the period 2017-2020.
The Authority has promoted the competitiveness of local agricultural products in the market, and launched the Abu Dhabi Gap program, the local version of the Global Gap program, which applies the quality standards of agricultural production to ensure food safety, sustainable management of the environment and the health of workers.
Beginning of agricultural training
A careful monitoring of quality, Al Bayan found it as an ideal model in one of the national farms in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which adopted the concept of organic agriculture in an exceptional way, to be the first in the world to create an integrated agricultural community other than the traditional perceptions of a different future. Models of entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector and work to support small and medium enterprises according to modern agricultural theories, which will certainly create distinct models from the people of the country.
Al Hamed, who won the award for the best agricultural project in the Arab world, and holds a master ’ s degree in strategic leadership and change leadership from the United Kingdom, said: “Through this project, I managed 120 farms inside the country and I currently own farms outside the country. The group received more than 13 thousand school students in one year, and students from Europe specialized in agricultural production and agricultural systems are trained in Gracia farms. ”
PRACTICES
Al Hamed explained that spreading agricultural culture to become a sustainable concept in the community is the first step to promote national agricultural tourism, where Gracia adopted the Green Council project, which contains two agricultural systems within it, in addition to irrigation and cooling systems by Emirati hands. including schools and hospitals.
He added: “Through my experience in the agricultural sector, I have done a strategic study that includes all challenges and solutions, and I have devised a concept that is the first of its kind in the world, entitled“ Comprehensive Farm ”, which works to provide multiple and diverse images for all those who want to work in agriculture, whether they own farms in the country or want to achieve food security from their homes. During the first two months of a diploma and feasibility study, and after two months, the young people have practically trained on the farm during 14 months in the farm, passing through 20 training stations, and these young people become fully qualified scientifically and practically to the concept of agriculture, production, understanding economic feasibility and promotion.
Frameworks of law
Legal Advisor Dr. Matar Hamed Al Neyadi, UAE Ambassador to Kuwait and former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy, stressed that adopting the concept of agricultural tourism will save farmers many financial costs and burdens that may currently hinder many of them from benefiting more from their farms in a way that contributes to enhancing their sources of income and support efforts to provide food security or create new jobs or attract foreign investments.
“In the UAE, there is a great opportunity to benefit more from the existing farms in the country and from the competitiveness of the UAE through the regulation of agricultural tourism, which will encourage farmers to invest more and reduce the operational costs required to establish a project within their farms, ” he said.
Perhaps the first step would be to amend the text of Article 9 / 2 of the Commercial Transactions Law of 1993, which states: “If a farmer establishes a shop or factory permanently to sell his crops in condition or after they are manufactured, the sale in this case is considered a commercial business. ”
A law.
In this context, he pointed out an important point that this paragraph of the law makes the establishment of a sales platform or store within the farm to sell agricultural crops a business that requires transforming the activity status from an agricultural project to a commercial project and thus transforming the farm owner status from a farmer to a trader in a way that would increase the operational expenses required on farms. This activity is not considered as a commercial activity but as an agricultural activity.
10 Strategic Determinants
The importance of preparing a set of investment portfolios that include a preliminary economic feasibility study for the implementation of a number of agricultural tourism projects in the country, strengthening national media campaigns to motivate the public to adopt community farming behaviors, deepening the concept of agricultural impact, and establishing a national database to monitor the growth and development of expected investments in tourism farms.
This is in addition to its importance in activating the national economy as well as its role in the conservation of natural resources, providing investors with a list of tourist sites eligible for the establishment of eco-lodges and agricultural rest projects, coordinating with partners to facilitate the procedures for granting licenses for such projects to the investor, as well as technical support during the preparation of engineering designs. Agricultural training centers, providing special budgets for agricultural training centers on tourist farms.
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Title:

Content: Headlines

Tourism Champions Challenge’ LGU winners to receive P255M grant

Rosette Adel - Philstar.com
This April 15, 2024 photo shows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivering a speech during the Tourism Champions Challenge awarding ceremony.
DOT / Released

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday announced that fifteen local government units are set to receive a combined amount of P255 million as part of the Department of Tourism’s flagship program, the Tourism Champions Challenge (TCC).

Marcos announced an additional project funding of P75 million, raising the total TCC grant for 15 winners from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao from P180 million to P255 million.

The P180 will come from the DOT in collaboration with its infrastructure arm, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA).

TCC, conceptualized by DOT and TIEZA, is a nationwide campaign that incentivizes tourism development among cities and municipalities launched last year.

More than 1,000 member-mayors of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines and over 100 city mayors were invited to propose tourism projects for the economic development across regions as part of the challenge.

Last October, the DOT bared the shortlisted 15 LGUs from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, which will receive funds for tourism projects for the winning tourism proposals they submitted.

During the TCC awarding ceremony, Marcos congratulated the DOT for “tapping various stakeholders for innovative ideas that will energize and enhance tourism development in our country.”

“For indeed, the best way to draw crowds is to crowdsourcing ideas and how to bring them in. The response to this Tourism Champions Challenge, I have been told, has been nothing less than overwhelming,” the president said Monday.

“It is also heartwarming to note that these are not mere proposals anymore, but they are existing projects of proven value and that have already shown unqualified success. This is the way tourism should be developed in our view, like economic growth, not relying on trickle-down, but built from the ground up,” he added.

“The national government will build more infrastructure, implement tourism-friendly policies, and arouse interest from global audiences,” Marcos vowed.

Following the launch of the TCC in early 2023, the DOT received almost 100 proposals from 90 LGUs across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. These submissions were made between March and May of the same year and underwent an evaluation process facilitated by the 16 DOT Regional Offices and the TCC Committee.

The evaluation later registered 41 compliant LGUs, before they finally chose five winners from each region.

Meanwhile, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco considers the culmination of the TCC “a pivotal moment towards the journey of tourism transformation.”

“Pursuant to our President's vision for our nation, the Tourism Champions Challenge was launched and designed to unleash the potential of cities and municipalities across the Philippines, by inviting them to propose innovative tourism infrastructure projects that aim to foster sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience in tourism development, enhancing our local destinations and communities and most importantly, providing added economic opportunity for our communities nationwide,” Frasco said.

She explained that the flagship program seeks to empower LGUs and allow them to conceptualize and develop projects that “create new tourism opportunities, create accessibility and showcase our unique Filipino heritage.”

The tourism chief said that the TCC has five phases including the call for proposals, project implementation and ending with the inauguration.

“The rigorous selection process, upheld by standards of integrity and impartiality involves multiple stages of evaluation, from capacity building, through the expert advice of our panel from across the cross-section of the tourism industry, to proposal assessment,” Frasco said.

“This process ensured that the most promising and impactful tourism initiatives were selected for immediate implementation,” she added.

Recipient LGUs and TCC-funded projects

 The following winning LGUs and projects will receive funding from the TCC:

Luzon

  • 1st place: Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya’s Ambaguio Skyport - The 1st Local Paragliding "Airport Terminal;" in the Philippines

Envisioned to be a tourism hub and paragliding headquarters, the Ambaguio Skyport aims to empower the local Indigenous communities, namely the ‘Kalanguyas and Ayangan’ tribes, and to establish Ambaguio to be the benchmark for grassroots athletes and safe air sports tourism in the Philippines.

  • 2nd place: Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro’s Pinagpalang Lagusan sa Bakawanan": A Mangrove Forest Park Development

An aspiring mangrove conservation champion, Sablayan, through its project, aims to preserve a vibrant 12-hectare biodiversity by establishing the 925-meter mangrove boardwalk using eco-friendly materials for sustainability, and revitalizing its tourism destinations.

  • 3rd place: Bolinao, Pangasinan’s Legacy of the Sea Project: A Silaki Island Community Based Tourism Project

A community-based tourism project set in the idyllic fishing village of Silaki Island, situated in Bolinao the renowned “Giant Clam Capital of the Philippines”. It aims to create an iconic tourism destination by harnessing the unique charm of the fishing village experience that respects the local community and preserves the environment.

  • 4th place: San Jose, Romblon’s Establishment of Eco-Tourism Park

San Jose aims to unlock the Carabao Island’s tourism potential while protecting its environment and unique local communities. The project aims to develop an ecotourism park by establishing a cultural and heritage center that will promote the culture and traditions of Ati people and the island’s beaches and natural wonders.

  • 5th place: Socorro, Oriental Mindoro’s Naujan Lake Wetland Center

Socorro’s Naujan Lake Wetland Center is a project envisioned to provide endless possibilities for its local communities through responsible and sustainable ecotourism, livelihood opportunities, and environmental awareness.

Visayas

  • 1st place: Tubigon, Bohol’s Enchanted Ilijan Plug of Tubigon

The Enchanted Ilijan Plug of Tubigon is identified as the country’s first volcanic plug. The project holds significant tourism potential by establishing infrastructure to improve the socio-economic condition and well-being of the Tubigon communities.

  • 2nd place: Badian, Cebu’s Badian Toong Spring Nature Park

Badian weaves the integration of conservation, sustainable tourism, and community engagement. The project aims to contribute to the protection of ecosystems, empower local communities actively engaged in ecotourism, and promote sustainable development practices in Badian.

  • 3rd place: Silago, Southern Leyte’s Silago Ridge to Reef Eco-Experience Project (SIRREEP): Promoting Sustainability through Eco-Heritage Tourism

Silago’s ridge-to-reef eco experience project aims to promote sustainable tourism, protect natural heritage, and stimulate economic growth by establishing an eco-heritage museum to preserve the largest sperm whale skeleton in the country.

  • 4th place: Victorias City, Negros Occidental’s Gawahon, A Birder's Paradise. Haven for Sustainable and Inclusive Eco-Tourism

Victorias City’s Gawahon Ecopark is an ecotourism paradise envisioned to be a haven for nature enthusiasts. Through environmental conservation and community development, Gawahon is set to be a model for sustainable tourism, a sanctuary for endangered species, and a source of prosperity for the community.

  • 5th place: Panay, Capiz’ Panay: A Coastal Resource Experience

The Panay Coastal Resource Experience Project intends to develop Panay’s mangrove forest with nature-inspired cottages and breathtaking views. It aims to stimulate livelihood opportunities, regenerate mangrove populations, and seek social equity for future generations.

 Mindanao

  • 1st place: Isabela City, Basilan’s Lampinigan SANDS (Sustainable and Natural Destination of the South): The Lampinigan Jetty Port and Leisure Development Project

Beyond the pristine white sand and jaw-dropping rock formation of Lampinigan Island, the heartbeat of this project is the people. Aiming to enrich tourism activities through community engagement, the project features infrastructure facilities for the convenience of the tourists such as jetty port, pavilion hall and view deck.

  • 2nd place: Davao City, Davao del Sur’s Panunod: A Way of Life, Inherited Preservation of the Unwavering Legacy of Cultural and Sustainable Tourism of the Davao City

Situated at Davao City’s Ramon Magsaysay Park will rise a cultural peace hub for the Indigenous and Bangsa Communities. The project will establish a centralized cultural center and sustainable communities dedicated to showcasing economic opportunities for the arts and products of the city’s 11 ethnolinguistic tribes.

  • 3rd place: Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte (IGACOS)’s Mangrove Boardwalk and Gallery

Anchored on the City’s priority agenda on environmental management and protection, Samal Island’s mangrove boardwalk project is envisioned to sustain the convergence of infrastructure, economics, and environmental development for the benefit of local communities.

  • 4th place: Tagum City, Davao del Norte’s Truly Tagum: Advancing the Benefits of an Enriched Heritage-Tourism Circuit

Designed to enrich the heritage tourism circuit of Tagum City, the project aims to provide greater opportunities for tourism enterprises, diversified livelihood options for host communities, increased income, and improved quality of life for the community-based tourism stakeholders.

  • 5th place: San Agustin, Surigao del Sur’s Construction of Tourist Catwalk at Gata to Bretania Mangrove Areas

San Agustin’s Tourist Catwalk project aims to develop and preserve its mangrove forest while unlocking its astounding tourism potential through immersive tourist experiences and fostering sustainable tourism development and stimulating socio-economic growth.

The DOT said that aside from the additional P75 million cumulative grant from the president, the following cash grants will be received by the winner, amounting to P180 million:

  • First placers – P20 million each

  • Second placers – P15 million each

  • Third placers – P10 million each

  • Fourth placers – P8 million each

  • Fifth placers – P7 million each

Their proposals were reviewed by the TCC Committee, chaired by Frasco, with Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid as vice chairs, and other DOT officials as members.

The judges invited included Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Benjamin Abalos Jr. represented by Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga represented by Regional Director Ma. Victoria Abrera, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Vice President for Trade Mission and director of the Environment and Climate Change, Infrastructure, and Construction Committee Felino Palafox Jr., with PricewaterhouseCoopers as knowledge partner.

On the other hand, the DOT said the TCC advisers include former DOT Undersecretary and now Philippine Hotel Owners Association Inc. (PHOA) Executive Director Benito Bengzo Jr., former Tourism Undersecretaries and Rolando Canizal and Daniel Corpuz, Associate Professor Dr. Ramon Benedicto Alampay of the Asian Institute of Tourism, and Dr. Maria Cherry Lyn Rodolfo of the Asian Institute of Management.

The TCC awarding ceremony was led by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin Frasco.

CHRISTINA FRASCO

DOT

FERDINAND MARCOS JR

PHILIPPINE TOURISM

TIEZA

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Content: A community-based sustainable tourism (CBST) association in Barangay Marufinas has received a duck farming livelihood program from the City Veterinary Office (CVO) of Puerto Princesa, which aims to provide members with an alternative source of income and contribute to the production of eggs for the balut and salted egg sectors.

The City Tourism Office (CTO) said Friday in the Turismo Dadi (Tourism Now) virtual program that the recipient of the CVO’s distribution of 400 laying ducks was the Barwang Magic Island CBST in Sitio Barwang, Barangay Marufinas.

“Ito ay kanilang paiitlogin upang gawing itlog na maalat o di kaya ay balut,” the CTO said.

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It is an alternative revenue source that the tourism office also hopes to promote to tourists visiting Marufinas, which is known for its mini river cruise, snorkeling in Ulugan Bay, and demo farms for seaweeds, sea cucumber, and taklobo production.

Juliet Blanco, president of the Barwang Magic Island CBST, their association is thankful to the CVO led by Dr. Indira Santiago, and the CTO, under the leadership of Demetrio Alvior Jr., for the livelihood program that can help them bounce back from the effects of the pandemic and the destruction of Typhoon Odette.

She added that it will also serve as preparation for the revival of their tourism activities in Sitio Barwang, Marufinas.

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The use of technology, such as digital platforms and sustainable tourism apps, can also help promote sustainable tourism practices and reduce the environmental impact of tourism.

Title:

Content: People 's Network > > International
"Hello! China" tourism image unveiled at the World Travel Fair in London
Strengthening cooperation to promote global tourism recovery (international perspective)
This reporter is snowing.
November 14, 2023 06: 25 | Source: People's Daily - People's Daily
Small number
Foreign businessmen and Chinese booth staff to discuss cooperation matters.
Foreign merchants visit the China booth to learn about relevant industry information.
The above photos are taken by our reporter Xing Xue.
The 2023 World Travel Fair in London has come to an end.
The theme of this exhibition is "You have the power to change travel - travel has the power to change the world", more than 3,800 exhibitors from more than 180 countries and regions participated in the exhibition.
China sent a delegation to participate in the offline exhibition of the fair, and the China exhibition area with the theme of "Hello! China" tourism image appeared in the fair.
The Chinese market is favored.
At the fair, led by the China Tourism Office in London, the cultural and tourism departments of Beijing, Shanghai, Shaanxi, Hubei and Jiangxi provinces and cities, as well as a number of tourism enterprises and airlines, jointly participated in the exhibition, displaying tourism products and routes to China, and promoting the latest inbound tourism policies.
Li Liyan, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Britain, said at the opening ceremony that the world tourism market has recovered rapidly and China welcomes world tourists with open arms.
The theme of this year's China Pavilion, "Hello! China", is the first time that China's national tourism image has been released in London, and it is a sincere invitation to meet China.
The exhibition area, with the national treasure giant panda as its main image, combines Chinese red, auspicious clouds and bamboo, showing the unique charm of China's tourism.
During the three-day event, the China Pavilion featured the "Hello! China" tour route to China, as well as Beijing-based culture, the "first stop of Chinese inbound tourism" in Shanghai, the "starting point of the ancient Silk Road" in Shaanxi, and the "province of thousands of lakes" in Hubei.
Tourism products such as the Yellow Crane Tower folding fan, Teng Wang Pavilion bamboo slideshow, Xiqin embroidery and Shanghai international cultural metropolis video publicity film attracted a large number of people in the industry to stop.
Marcello, a participant from an Italian travel agency, made a special trip to the China Pavilion to look for cooperation opportunities with airlines and destination management companies. "We are very excited to see the delegation from China. China is rich in tourism resources, and we hope that more people will come to China to see it through enhanced tourism cooperation."
Alastair Black, a representative of the British city of Macclesfield, who has traveled to and from China more than 40 times, told reporters: "Travel enhances understanding and understanding promotes cooperation."
I hope you all go to China to see more.
It is a beautiful country with hospitable people. "
"We have not only the terracotta warriors, but also the folk songs of northern Shaanxi and the beautiful scenery of southern Shaanxi," he said.
In Xi ’ an, the Tang Culture Panorama Exhibition Area of “Datang Night City + 12 Hours in Changan ” combines historical and cultural resources with contemporary light and shadow technology to launch an immersive experience.
Gao Yang, director of the Department of Culture and Tourism of Shaanxi Province, said: "We hope to promote Shaanxi internationally and attract more foreign tourists to visit Shaanxi."
According to reports, in order to facilitate international tourists to Shaanxi, in December 2019, Xi'an took the lead in becoming the first 144-hour visa-free city in northwest China, and airlines and travel agencies organized overseas tour groups to travel to Shaanxi by charter flights and special tourist trains, which can also enjoy different levels of subsidy support.
Smart tourism is a concern.
At the fair, sustainable development and the application of new technologies were widely concerned by people in the industry.
Many forums focused on issues such as green development, sustainable infrastructure construction, and big data applications.
Juliet Rosado, director of the World Tourism Fair, said that the theme of this year's World Tourism Day is "tourism and green investment" and "sustainable development is the cornerstone of tourism development."
Sustainable infrastructure and green policy investments across the industry are now more important than ever. ”
The German National Tourist Board encourages visitors to stay longer at a destination to reduce their carbon footprint.
Spain ’ s tourism board says it has introduced slow travel to encourage holiday travel by train.
The Brazilian Tourism Board is focusing on the eco-tourism destination Bonito to promote the concept of sustainable tourism.
At the “Technology Enabling Smart Tourism City Construction ” Forum hosted by the World Tourism Cities Federation, Douglas-Holm, Chief Sales and Marketing Development Publicity Officer of Dubai Expo City, shared the construction experience and emission reduction goals of Dubai Expo City, stressing that technology has an important role to play in the sustainable construction of the city of the future.
Li Baochun, head of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, introduced Beijing's experience in building a smart tourism city during the exchange event.
He said that Beijing has seized the development opportunity of "science and technology + tourism" and actively promoted the transformation of artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, virtual reality and other technologies into practical applications to provide efficient and intelligent urban services for tourists and citizens.
At present, the coverage rate of 5G signals in Beijing's urban areas is maintained at more than 99%, and "only one mobile phone is required, and tourists can freely visit Beijing."
Industry insiders said that the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology is changing the traditional tourism mode, and put forward higher requirements on how to provide better tourism services.
Cai Wenxuan, Managing Director and Vice President (International Market) of Ctrip Group, said that artificial intelligence technology can provide tourists with intelligent query suggestions and personalized hotel recommendations, enhancing the user experience.
Driven by technology, mobile software can not only recommend popular activities, price change prediction, experience sharing, etc., but also query and customer service can realize artificial intelligence voice dialogue.
During the fair, Shaanxi also signed cooperation agreements with three British and French companies on tourism services and digital technology development.
Industry development prospects are promising
The trade fair released a global tourism report by the Oxford Economics Research Institute ’ s “Tourism Economy ”.
According to the report, “Despite the challenges facing the tourism industry such as rising costs of aviation fuel, finance and labor, there is still no clear indication that higher costs will hinder actual travel ”, from the perspective of tourism, leisure tourism has the strongest recovery, which has now returned to 90% of the peak level in 2019.
The report predicts that by the end of 2023, global outbound travel will exceed 1.26 billion, about 86% of the 2019 peak level before COVID-19.
Industry insiders pointed out that economic growth and demographic and social changes in emerging market countries have brought greater development opportunities to the global tourism market.
By the end of 2023, the number of inbound leisure tourists in the Middle East is expected to increase by 13% compared to 2019.
There are also significant growth opportunities in the tourism market in emerging market countries such as Indonesia.
The report pointed out that the opening of Indonesia ’ s Yavan high-speed rail in October this year has brought opportunities for local tourism growth. “The opening of the Yavan high-speed rail has brought great convenience to tourists. ” Daisy Ruhati, an official of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, said that the number of tourists in Indonesia has reached 433 million in the first half of this year.
With the opening of the Yavan high-speed rail, the number of tourists in Indonesia is expected to reach 1.2 billion to 1.4 billion in 2023.
According to Juliet Losado, tourists from all over the world are now more willing to make the most of their precious travel time to create precious memories, learn more about the destination, and explore culture, food and nature.
As many international cultural and sporting events resume and consumer demand for unique and memorable experiences continues to grow, personalized tourism has become one of the industry ’ s focal points and opportunities.
(London, November 13)
People 's Daily (November 14, 2023, 17 edition)
(Editor: Yang Guangyu, Hu Yongqiu)
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Title:

Content: Tourism works to adapt and leverage digital technology

Vietnam is rapidly embracing technology to develop digital and smart tourism, aiming to create fresh and attractive products, lure tourists, enhance competitiveness, stimulate growth, and achieve sustainable development.

A screenshot of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism's Vietnam Travel application. (Photo: vietnamtourism.gov.vn)

According to experts, digital tourism and smart tourism both rely on the application of information technology, digital communication, and data. The Party Central Committee’s Resolution No. 52-NQ/TW dated September 27, 2019, regarding certain orientations and policies for proactive participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, has set a focus on the development of priority sectors with high readiness level, including digital tourism.

The Prime Minister has also approved an overall plan for IT application in the tourism sector for 2018-2020, with a vision to 2025, which aims to develop a smart tourism ecosystem that connects various stakeholders.

Vietnam's tourism development strategy until 2030 has set directions for accelerating the sector’s digital transformation, serving the establishment and development of a smart tourism ecosystem.

As a result, many localities such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Quang Nam, Khanh Hoa, and Ho Chi Minh City have actively joined the development process of digital and smart tourism.

The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism reports that advanced and modern technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, and 360-degree imagery have been used in destination management to introduce new and impressive products that attract tourists.

Some tourist destinations in Hanoi have adopted electronic ticketing systems, such as the Van Mieu (the Temple of Literature) and Quoc Tu Giam (the first university in Vietnam) site, President Ho Chi Minh's relic site at the Presidential Palace, and Quan Thanh Temple. This technology allows tour groups to use a single electronic ticket, reducing printing costs and waste, hence bettering environmental protection.

Da Nang, meanwhile, utilises the "Da Nang Fantasticity" chatbot application, the first of its kind in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

The City Tour Hop On-Hop Off double-decker bus service in Ho Chi Minh City has applied new technology, combining digital data on transportation and tourist preferences to design suitable tour routes, sell tickets and accept payments virtually, integrate free wifi, and provide automatic multilingual narration.

Moreover, the digital platform "Google Arts and Culture - Wonders of Vietnam" has contributed to promoting the country’s outstanding cultural and heritage values, such as Son Doong Cave, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, and the Imperial City of Hue.

The Vietnam E-commerce Association (VECOM) recently reported that over 60 percent of domestic visitors book hotels and tours online, while more than 75 percent of international tourists use these services.

At a high-level forum on digital transformation in tourism development promotion, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung underscored a focus on smart tourism to enhance state management efficiency, make tourists the center of attention, attract more international visitors to Vietnam, and stimulate domestic tourism growth.

Experts believe that travel companies need to capture trends from research and real-life activities, offering adaptive solutions, actively promoting creativity, and increasing investment in digital transformation. They consider this the key to stronger and more sustainable development.

Overall, addressing the issue of overtourism requires a multifaceted approach that involves governments, tourism operators, local communities, and tourists themselves, to promote more sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

Title:

Content: A thought-provoking editorial published in the Times of Malta on January 17 casts a spotlight on a crucial juncture for Malta’s tourism industry. The traditional focus on increasing tourist numbers is showing its limits, as seen in the challenges of environmental degradation, urban overcrowding, a rising cost of living and a decline in tourist expenditure when inflation is factored in.

Against this backdrop, there’s an evident need for a strategic shift towards sustainable, competitive, quality-focused tourism. The Malta Chamber’s ‘Rediscover’ document offers a detailed road map for this essential transformation.

While some operators in Malta have already started transitioning towards quality tourism, this is not yet a universal practice across the entire value chain. The ‘Rediscover’ initiative not only recognises the efforts of these early adopters but also proposes a broader adoption of these practices.

Importantly, the document lays out tangible proposals proposed by 29 industry stakeholders, providing a comprehensive blueprint for an industry-wide transformation towards quality and sustainability while remaining competitive. It focuses on realistic approaches that enhance the quality of tourist experiences rather than merely increasing tourist numbers.

In response to the evolving landscape of the tourism industry and the challenges it faces, the vision proposed by The Malta Chamber offers a comprehensive and cohesive strategy for Malta. This strategy is underpinned by a commitment to enhancing the overall tourist experience, addressing key areas such as environmental and infrastructural issues, and not concentrating only on the visitor experience but keeping the needs of the host population in mind.

Essential improvements in cleanliness, transport efficiency, and customer service are at the forefront of this vision, as these elements are vital in elevating Malta’s appeal as a tourist destination.

Recognising the ambition of expanding into distant markets, the ‘Rediscover’ strategy proposes a more measured, realistic approach. It advocates for strengthening existing markets and carefully exploring new ones, using improved connectivity and strategic marketing as tools.

This approach is aimed at creating a robust and diverse tourism industry that can adapt to various global shifts and preferences. This proposed strategy emphasises the crucial role of Malta’s national carrier in tourism growth.

Strategic management and control of seat capacity is essential for accessing new and existing geographic and thematic markets, adapting to market trends, and ensuring Malta’s global connectivity. This approach is key to diversifying and strengthening Malta’s position in the evolving tourism industry.

Strategic management and control of seat capacity is essential for accessing new and existing geographic and thematic markets, adapting to market trends, and ensuring Malta’s global connectivity

Central to this strategy is the need to align with the changing expectations of tourists who increasingly seek authentic and unique experiences. In response, the ‘Rediscover’ initiative suggests offering journeys that immerse visitors in the rich culture and heritage of Malta, catering to the desires of today’s discerning tourists.

This involves not only showcasing the authentic Maltese culture but also ensuring that every aspect of the tourist’s journey – from arrival to departure – is infused with the essence of Malta’s unique character.  Building expectations in the pre-arrival stage and using the guest as a promoter in the post visit stage are also recognised as key ingredients of a successful visitor journey and experience.

The ‘Rediscover’ report goes beyond outlining high-level strategies by providing actionable steps focused on enhancing customer experiences. This includes promoting authentic Maltese offerings and investing in workforce development to ensure that the service delivery matches the high standards expected by tourists.

By prioritising the development of local talent and skills, the initiative seeks to elevate the uniqueness and the quality of interactions and services that tourists encounter during their stay.

A significant challenge that the strategy addresses is balancing the need for development with the imperative of sustainability. The ‘Rediscover’ vision calls for a tourism model that is responsible and respectful of Malta’s unique environmental and cultural assets.

This balance is key to preserving the island’s appeal for future generations while ensuring that current tourism practices are environmentally and culturally sustainable.

Lastly, in an environment of rising living and dining costs, the strategy emphasises the importance of offering tourists value for their money. It’s crucial that the quality of services, experiences and products provided in Malta justifies the expense, ensuring that tourists feel their investment in a Maltese holiday is worthwhile.

Malta stands at a critical juncture in redefining its tourism sector. The path forward involves shifting from higher quantity to higher value, embracing sustainable practices, and creating memorable experiences. ‘Rediscover’ provides a clear blueprint with over 120 actionable proposals.

Now, the onus is on policymakers and operators to take these insights and turn them into action. The blueprint for a transformed, quality-driven tourism industry is laid out; it’s time for decisive implementation of these proposals to ensure Malta’s tourism sector remains a vibrant, sustainable part of the economy for the longer term, and a source of national pride.

Alan Arrigo is a board member of the Malta Chamber. Michael Camilleri Kamsky is chairperson of the Tourism Businesses Section of the Malta Chamber.

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Title:

Content: Featured ArticlesInternational
World Travel and Tourism Summit reveals global climate footprint data for travel and tourism
Regions _ Followers
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched environmental and social research on the climate footprint of the global travel and tourism industry.
This came during the 22nd World Summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council, organized by the World Travel and Tourism Council in cooperation with the Global Center for Tourism Sustainability in the capital Riyadh.
Environmental and social research covers 185 countries on all continents, the first of its kind at the international level, and will be updated annually with the latest figures, including measures that monitor the sector ’ s impact on a range of indicators, including pollutants, energy sources and water use, as well as social data, age data and gender wages in jobs related to the travel and tourism sector. Accuracy.
Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), announced in her opening speech the results of Environmental and Social Research (ESR).
One of the largest research projects, the World Travel and Tourism Council will be able to provide accurate reports and track the impact of various industry activities on the environment.
She explained that the tourism and travel sector is making great strides in decarbonization, stressing a focus in increasing the production of sustainable aviation fuel supported by government incentives, and also to greater use of renewable energy in national public electricity grids so as to promote the use of sustainable energy in hotel rooms.
The sector ’ s 8.1% share of the carbon footprint can be impacted by becoming more efficient and decoupling growth from the amount of energy consumed starting today, she said, noting that every decision and every step towards change will lead to a better and brighter future for all.
For his part, His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, Mr. Ahmed Al-Khatib, expressed his pleasure for the participation of the World Travel and Tourism Council in this important research that will follow the impact of future activities, stressing that the Kingdom recognizes that travelers and investors want policies that promote sustainability in the sector and that the Kingdom has embarked on a phase to make it a leader in the field of sustainable tourism.
“Within the framework of the Saudi Green Initiative, we launched more than 60 initiatives last year to achieve this goal, the first batch of initiatives was investments in the green economy worth more than $186 billion, ” he said.
Previous estimates have indicated that the global travel and tourism sector is responsible for up to 11% of all global emissions, however, leading research by the World Travel and Tourism Council shows that the sector ’ s total greenhouse gas emissions reached only 8.1% in 2019 globally. Thermal.
These emissions have continued to decline continuously since 2010, as a result of technological developments, as well as the introduction of a number of energy efficiency measures to activities within the sector. Between 2010 and 2019, the GDP of the tourism and travel sector grew at a rate of 4.3% annually, while its environmental impact increased by only 2.4%.
The World Travel and Tourism Council will continue to release new data on the sector ’ s performance in these indicators over the course of 2023.
Governments around the world will have a tool to guide their decision-making and more accurately accelerate the process of environmental change.
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The economic impact of overtourism is also a significant concern, as it can lead to increased property and rent costs, forcing locals out of their homes and communities.

Title:

Content: Today, on April 20, 2024, the Canary Islands are witnessing a widespread protest aimed at challenging the current development model heavily reliant on tourism. This significant event is set to occur simultaneously across all eight islands of the archipelago, as well as in various cities internationally including Málaga, Granada, Madrid, Barcelona, Amsterdam, London, and Berlin. The protests are unified under the slogan “The Canary Islands have a limit.”

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The protest aims to reshape the development strategy on the islands, highlighting concerns about the tourism sector’s role in economic disparity and resource consumption. Despite tourism supporting approximately 40% of employment and being a primary contributor to the GDP, it’s also associated with creating inequalities and not distributing wealth effectively among the local population. This is exemplified by the Canary Islands recording their highest tourist numbers alongside their highest poverty rates in both 2017 and 2023.

Organizers clarify that the intent is not to expel tourists or eliminate the industry but to implement limits and conditions, and address governance that prioritizes economic gains over broader interests. Key issues fueling the protests include:

  1. Low Wages and High Poverty Rates: The Canary Islands have some of Spain’s lowest salaries and a significant poverty rate, affecting over 33% of the population. The islands have experienced rapid population growth, particularly in Tenerife and Fuerteventura, exacerbating these issues.
  2. Environmental and Infrastructure Concerns: Despite having numerous protected spaces, the islands face challenges such as insufficient protection agents and underdeveloped infrastructure in health, education, and sanitation. Notably, several islands struggle with untreated wastewater being discharged into the sea.
  3. Housing and Over-Tourism: The spread of holiday homes has dispersed tourists across the islands, impacting local communities by driving up rental prices and displacing residents. This issue is compounded by the government’s initiatives to attract digital nomads, further straining the housing market.
  4. Legal and Regulatory Challenges: Recent government stances on controversial tourism projects, like those on La Tejita beach and Cuna del Alma in Tenerife, have sparked outrage for perceived favoritism towards developers despite legal infractions.

The protest is seen as a venting mechanism for accumulated frustrations with the aim to initiate significant changes in how the islands develop and manage tourism. Proposals include imposing a tourist tax to fund environmental conservation, enacting a moratorium on new tourist accommodations, and establishing residence laws to curb speculative real estate purchases by non-residents.

This protest is part of a broader call to reconsider the islands’ economic models, prioritizing sustainability and equitable growth over mere economic output. This event might mark the beginning of a significant shift in policy and public discourse around tourism and development in the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands are on track to set a new historical record for tourist arrivals in 2024, continuing a trend of increasing numbers which began in earnest following the pandemic. With official estimates indicating a potential total of around 17 million visitors for the year, this surpasses the previous high of 16.2 million in 2023. These figures are bolstered by a significant recovery in tourism since the slowdown during the COVID-19 years of 2020 and 2021.

This surge in tourism is seen as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it signifies a robust recovery and a boon for the local economy, driven by both foreign and domestic visitors. On the other, it underscores the challenges and pressures faced by the islands, particularly in terms of infrastructure, local community impact, and environmental sustainability. This has led to today’s widespread protests across the Canary Islands under the campaign “Canarias tiene un límite” (The Canary Islands have a limit), highlighting concerns over the sustainability of this growth model.

The protests reflect broader anxieties about the direction of tourism development, which, despite its economic benefits, is perceived to exacerbate local issues such as high poverty rates, environmental degradation, and the displacement of local communities due to rising housing costs. These concerns are amplified by predictions that the influx of tourists may continue to grow, particularly with the diversion of tourists from Eastern Mediterranean destinations affected by geopolitical tensions, such as the conflict in Gaza.

In response to these pressures, there is a growing call for more responsible tourism practices. Organizations like Exceltur advocate for strategies that alleviate the saturation of local spaces and services, promote more sustainable transportation options, and address the social impacts of tourism. This includes managing the explosive growth of vacation rentals, which have significant negative externalities on local residents.

The protests and the ongoing discourse represent a critical juncture for the Canary Islands, as the community seeks to balance the economic advantages of tourism with the need for sustainable development and equitable growth. The outcome of these discussions and the ability of the islands to adapt to these challenges will likely shape the future of tourism and community life in the archipelago.

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The reliance on tourism as a major source of income can also lead to locals being pushed out of their homes due to high costs, with 1000 people protesting in Ibiza against overtourism.

Title:

Content: British tourists warned European island 'doesn't have enough locals left to run things'

Ibiza is the latest holiday hotspot in Spain where anger with overtourism is boiling over.

By Alice Scarsi, World News Reporter

Ibiza welcomes around three million tourists every year (Image: GETTY)

The cost of rents and mortgages, which activists say is being pushed up by over-tourism, is prompting people to leave Ibiza, one of the most popular Balearic Islands.

This, in turn, is harming public services, as there aren't enough people available to work in them, it has been claimed.

Iván Fidalgo, a Guardia Civil officer and local coordinator for the Spanish Association of Civil Guards, told Euronews Travel: "They sell Ibiza as a first-class resort, but it is not because it doesn’t even have the public services because there are not enough people to work in them."

Many of the locals who don't leave the island are forced to leave in cramped accommodations or relocate in caravans, campaigners have claimed.

Ibiza attracts on average three million tourists a year, some 800,000 of which are Britons.

Tourism is an industry important to the economy of the island (Image: GETTY)

In 2023, the Balearics as a whole saw an unprecedented surge of international interest, attracting 14.4 million visitors from abroad - who spent collectively £14.75bn (€17.22bn).

Tourism is a majorly important industry for the archipelago, creating 200,000 jobs locally and generating 45 percent of the islands' GDP.

However, an increased demand for temporary accommodation created by tourism reportedly means that many locals are pushed out of their homes as they are unable to afford the increasing housing costs.

Similar issues are being lamented by activists elsewhere in popular Spanish destinations - including the Canary Islands.

Last month, many of these islands including Tenerife held massive anti-overtourism protests, in which they demanded local governments to limit the number of visitors and curb the development of tourist stays.

Similar pleas were heard on Friday in Ibiza, where around a 1000 people took to the streets of the island's capital to demand limits on the number of tourist arrivals.

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However, tourism can also generate significant revenue and create jobs, with Ibiza's tourism industry generating 45 percent of the island's GDP and creating 200,000 jobs locally.

To balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect local communities and environments, it is essential to implement sustainable tourism practices and manage tourism development in a responsible and regulated manner.

Title:

Content: Skift Take

The UAE’s “Nature Emirate” is on a quest to become a regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025. Its “Balanced Tourism” approach offers vibrant nature and cultural adventures alongside support and incentives for both new and existing hotels.

As travel returns, destinations and tourism boards pivoting toward sustainability — and those with the most ambitious, authentic, and achievable sustainability goals — will reshape how we travel in the decade ahead. According to Expedia Group Media Solutions’ 2022 Sustainable Travel Study, half of consumers want to see more information on sustainability from destinations.

On a mission to engage this more responsible traveler, Ras Al Khaimah has declared its vision to become the Middle East’s most sustainable destination by 2025, with the goal of attracting over 3 million visitors annually by 2030. Its new “Balanced Tourism” strategy, created in partnership with EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification, and advisory group for travel and tourism, goes far beyond tackling single-use plastic and promoting recycling to scale up sustainability in every sense.

The process began with a policy commitment from Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and its partners across government and industry, before establishing the benchmarks that progress would be measured against. The second part of the sustainability strategy takes the form of two certification programs, one for the destination and one for businesses, the latter looking to drive sustainability certification for at least 30 tourism businesses initially.

To tackle hot-button issues like overtourism, Balanced Tourism encompasses areas including cultural preservation and social and economic sustainability. As Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Usually everybody only talks about the environmental piece and forgets about the social and the economic piece. We wanted to make sure we were supporting smaller businesses and that whatever efforts we make also keep the local ecosystem, population, culture, and heritage in mind.”

Inspired by the blueprint set by countries like Slovenia, Costa Rica, and Rwanda, Ras Al Khaimah seeks not only to build the foundations for sustainable tourism growth at home but to establish a template for other destinations that wish to make a meaningful impact on sustainability without “greenwashing” or sacrificing tourism goals.

Sustainable Development

Tourism is a central part of Ras Al Khaimah’s economy, contributing over 5 percent of its GDP and providing around 10,000 jobs. However, this growth can also threaten the country’s natural splendor, giving rise to issues like overtourism, population growth, and environmental damage.

One way in which the tourism authority plans to combat this is by taking a measured approach to hotel development. Any property will have to abide by newly introduced green building codes that prioritize sustainable standards in areas such as food waste reduction and sustainable landscaping.

“This green hotel rating is an initiative that aims to achieve 100 percent integrated sustainability in all of Ras Al Khaimah’s hotels,” said Phillips. “We’ve also launched our green public procurement program (GPP) to support the adoption of sustainable procurement practices and produce products and services that have a low environmental impact.”

Take the recently integrated Wynn Resort, set to open in 2026. The brand is known for its pioneering approach to sustainability and energy efficiency, with a target of achieving 50 percent renewable energy by 2030. It has already implemented robust waste management programs at its properties, diverting between 26 percent and 100 percent of waste from entering landfills, as well as reducing water consumption and investing in new waste-to-energy solutions.

Sustainable development is also a question of market positioning, whether to developers, existing hotels, travelers, or the wider world. “We’re open for tourists, and we love welcoming them, but the way we message and position ourselves as a sustainable destination sets a certain expectation,” said Phillips.

Hosting upcoming events like the Conference of Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 2023 will also help set this expectation. Working with hotels to develop value propositions that cater to eco-conscious clients is another. “We want to make sure we are able to drive the maximum amount of profitability for hospitality partners,” said Phillips. “We are talking about a 50 percent five-star inventory.”

This means meeting with local community partners to help them understand how to drive a higher average rate rather than focusing on volume business, as well as setting KPIs and incentivizing with benefits such as tax offsetting. “We rebated 20 percent of the destination fee during Covid to help keep hotels afloat. Now we’ve added that element into sustainability, where based on specific metrics being met, we’re rewarding hotels and businesses,” said Phillips.

Attractions With Purpose

Unlike other tourist destinations in the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah has the advantage of being a developing destination — or what Phillips calls “a destination of the future.” This presents an opportunity to do things differently. And by investing around $140 million into 20 projects that will be built according to these new sustainability standards, Ras Al Khaimah is actively walking the walk when it comes to securing a more sustainable future.

Rather than massive attractions designed to drive mass volumes, the projects chosen have a strong sustainable focus, ranging from 50 kilometers of hiking trails to a tobogganing ride called the Jais Sledder. In the mountains, guests will be able to check into Anavrin Equestrian Resort, a wellness resort focused on “healing with horses” set to open in Q4 2022, and Saij Mountain Lodge, a protected and sustainably managed resort featuring lodges made from natural and sustainable materials, opening on Jebel Jais in 2023. At sea level, the proposed Scallop Ranch at Al Hamra Marina will enhance understanding of the marine ecosystem.

Cultural Conservation

Ras Al Khaimah is home to four cultural and heritage sites that are on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, the most among the Emirates. Preserving and restoring these cultural treasures is therefore a crucial part of its sustainability strategy, providing storied alternatives to crowded heritage sites for curious travelers.

Examples already underway include Suwaidi Pearls Farm, the only site in the UAE which still cultivates local pearls by hand, and Al Jazirah Al Hamra, an ancient pearling village of the Al Zaab tribe. Working with UNESCO experts and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, a program is underway to restore the village using traditional, sustainable materials by 2025, as well as creating curated tours that underpin its unique tribal history.

Community and Liveability

In addition to these cultural restoration projects, the tourism authority is engaging with the local community by staging over 20 events a year, including the RAK Fine Arts Festival, RAK Half Marathon, DP World Tour, and UAE Tour. Its sustainability strategy also involves programs to help the community think more sustainably — for example, it created a Buy RAK program for local suppliers that have a very low carbon footprint, negotiating deals for local fishermen to be able to buy directly. This will be supported by a carbon-mindful event in December to further educate the community.

The tourism authority also acknowledges the importance of employee well-being, having launched RAKFAM, a series of initiatives aimed at enriching connectivity, community life, and facilities for tourism sector employees in the Emirate. With several progressive policies in place to promote employee well-being, the tourism authority was recognized as the sixth-best workplace in the UAE by Great Place to Work for 2022 in the “small and medium organizations” category.

Ultimately, Ras Al Khaimah is pioneering this holistic approach to destination management not just because it’s the right thing to do. “Our customers are demanding it,” Phillips said. “We know travelers are looking for destinations where sustainability is at the forefront.”

For more information about Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, click here.

This content was created collaboratively by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Skift’s branded content studio, SkiftX.

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Content: 9.5 C
Alba Iulia
Tuesday, April 19, 2022

Zambia’s comparative advantage lies in the opportunity to advance home grown tourism initiatives

General News Zambia's comparative advantage lies in the opportunity to advance home grown tourism...

Government has renewed its commitment to sustainable use of natural resources in its developmental agenda.

Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga says Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world as it contributes to job creation, environmental protection and poverty alleviation.

Speaking when he officiated at the four days sustainable Tourism meeting in Lusaka today, Mr Muhanga said if the Tourism sector is well structured, it can empower host communities to generate trade opportunities.

He said sustainable Tourism remains a topical issue globally and that Zambia cannot afford to ignore consequences of unsustainable tourism practices if the country is to achieve real growth presently and in the future.

Mr. Muhanga noted that the United Nations General Assembly adopted 2017 as the international year of Tourism which was a watershed moment to energize institutions and countries across the world to prioritize tourism as a catalyst for positive change in the economic sector.

He said government needs to scale up efforts to build upon the impetus created when Zambia hosted the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) on Sustainable Tourism in Livingstone.

He stated that it was during that time that South Luangwa National Park was declared an international sustainable wildlife park for tourism development.

“Government’s desire is to ride on this feat as an encouragement for the tourism sector to achieve inclusive growth by promoting partnership and collaboration with other stakeholders in tourism,” he said.

Mr. Muhanga added that government believes that Zambia’s comparative advantage lies in the opportunity to advance home grown tourism initiatives.

He said the country will see revenue growth from the tourism sector as the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have started easing as more Tourists will start visiting the country.

He expressed hope that the four -day training will enhance partnership and collaboration required to promote tourism sustainability in the country.

“I have no doubt the participants will gain the necessary technical knowledge on sustainable Tourism which will in turn improve the economy,” he said.

He implored participants to apply the acquired knowledge in their day to day sustainable Tourism in the country.

And CBI Zambia local Consultant Rachel Ward explained that CBI, an NGO based in the Netherlands has come to Zambia to offer technical support on sustainable Tourism.

Ms. Ward said sustainable Tourism is the talk of everyone globally and must be harnessed in a quest to foster development in the country.

She commended CBI for being an all-weather friend to Zambia in the Tourism sector especially that the country has conducive weather patterns and friendly people.

She said sustainable Tourism is going to help Zambia and called on the hospitality industry to improve the standards in their hotels and lodges in order to attract tourists to Zambia.

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Zambia’s comparative advantage lies in the opportunity to advance home grown tourism initiatives

Government has renewed its commitment to sustainable use of natural resources in its developmental agenda. Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga...

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In terms of environmental impact, overtourism can lead to excessive waste generation, pollution, and degradation of natural resources, as well as the destruction of habitats and ecosystems.

Title:

Content: Scientists have identified the devastating impact of sex tourism on the planet.
It turned out that the influx of lovers of casual sex on some beaches damaged natural complexes.
The study was carried out by a group of scientists from several universities in Spain and Australia.
Their report was published on the portal ScienceDirect.
Several beaches have been explored in the popular Spanish resort.
In particular danger were the dunes of Maspalomas in the Canary Islands.
It is one of the few remaining shifting sand hills in Europe.
Here are rare plants and live unique animals.
In the course of the study, scientists studied about 300 popular “sex sites ” with a total area of 5.8 thousand square meters.
Scientists asked people about sex with robots: what the survey showed, the results of the study showed how the sexual activity of visitors negatively affected the local flora and fauna: from discarded cigarette butts, contraceptives and trampled grass affected ten species of plants and some animals.
Often the giant lizards of Gran Canaria often take condoms for jellyfish, eat them and die.
Earlier, British scientists have determined the optimal time of sleep so as not to have heart problems.
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Japan 's Mount Fuji Exposed in 2024 "9 Top Places to Avoid Visiting"
Mount Fuji, Japan. (Photo, Euronews)
2023 / 12 / 10 15: 45
Li Xinjie / Editor-in-Chief
[Real-Time News / Comprehensive Report] As 2024 approaches, many people are already excited to prepare for various plans to travel abroad.
However, the well-known American travel magazine Fodor ’ s Travel (Fodor ’ s Travel) announced next year ’ s “9 Best Places to Visit in the World ”, calling on tourists to carefully consider avoiding these famous but much-needed hot spots, and mentioning that these areas are affected by environmental pollution and tourism hazards.
Among them, Mount Fuji in Japan, which Taiwanese love, is also on the list.
According to a comprehensive foreign media report, among the nine “No List ” listed by Fodor Travel on its official website in 2024, four of them are in Asia and the rest are in Europe and the United States.
According to the official website, the original intention of the evaluation is not to deliberately suppress partial generalization, but to "respect" as the starting point of the declaration, this time to open the list of avoid visits, but also focus on tourists to nine tourist attractions and dependent local communities, resulting in "excessive tourism", "excessive waste generation", "affect water resources" these three major impacts.
At the same time, Fodor Tourism also pointed out that these nine tourist hotspots are deeply affected by the "Instagram effect", because the beauty of these places is circulating around the world, causing tourism.
Finally, Fodor Tourism also calls on tourists around the world to let go of these areas when planning their 2024 travel plans, but also to be careful to protect the local environment and culture, and to respect the people and places everywhere.
Mount Fuji, Japan
The number of climbers at the site has skyrocketed in recent years, but local authorities and people have pointed out that many do not fully understand the risks involved in climbing Mount Fuji, resulting in overcrowding at the top of the sacred mountain and putting themselves at risk.
In addition, many climbers are unwilling to pay 1,000 yen (about NT $200) for safety and environmental maintenance, and even leave a lot of garbage and urine filled bottles, which can only be cleaned by volunteers, causing headaches.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
The local waters attract a large number of international tourists to vacation, including snorkeling, water sports and fishing activities, which also lead to the local garbage load, the waters are full of garbage and diesel, and the local government ’ s poor implementation of pollution policies, it is very easy to be avoided by operators, so that the natural ecology of the area is facing unbearable pollution.
Koh Samui, Thailand
The island has been plagued by fresh water shortages for nearly a year, and the influx of tourists has consumed up to 70% of the region ’ s precious water resources, seriously exacerbating the island ’ s freshwater shortage.
Ganges, India
The river, regarded as the source of life for the people of India, has faced problems such as reduced flow, garbage pollution, and endangered freshwater dolphins in recent years, which have been exacerbated by the emerging luxury cruise industry.
Athens, Greece
The lack of a tourism hazard management plan by the local government does not mean that the world heritage is in danger of being destroyed, but also that the traditional way of life of the local people is being destroyed by a large number of tourists.
The Acropolis has already implemented a daily visitor limit, which has been reduced from 23,000 to 20,000 per day, and the Parthenon Temple to 17,000.
Italy (Venice)
Venice has long been affected by subsidence, flooding, and the damage caused by the increasing number of tourists, adding to the stress of this ancient and fragile city, and adversely affecting the local environment and residents.
Although the local government has taken several specific measures to try to reduce tourists, including charging a tourist tax of 5 euros (about NT $171) for all visitors over 14 years old who come to the city for a “day trip ” between the end of April and mid-July next year, it is still considered unlikely to improve the problem.
San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, California
This “natural oasis ” in Los Angeles County, due to the number of tourists and lack of environmental awareness, not only is the monument graffiti by tourists, but even littering everywhere, causing the local environment to suffer a lot of damage.
Lake Superior (United States – Canada border)
Lake Superior, on the border between the United States and Canada, is the largest freshwater lake on the planet, and its ecology is now exposed to a variety of hazards due to human visits, including species invasion, rapid algal blooms, and fish consumption warnings.
Chile's Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert, on the Pacific coast, is a spectacular natural beauty of deserts, geysers, lagoons, salt mines, cliffs and peaks, but the local environment is polluted by "fast fashion" and unfortunately becomes a landfill.
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The tourism industry is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with each flight from China to Taipei generating 260 kg of carbon emissions.

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Content: Perpetual Tourism Leaves Good Mountains and Water to Future Generations
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The tourism industry has caused no small impact on the ecological environment, and increasingly severe climate change has also posed a threat to the tourism industry.
If you want to continue to travel abroad, you should face up to environmental problems and adopt a more environmentally friendly way of travel.
Has the national awareness of sustainable tourism increased?
In what ways can travellers be considerate of the environment?
According to the Singapore Airlines Carbon Emissions Online Calculator, each flight from China to Taipei, the one-way carbon emissions of a single person is about 260 kilograms; in other words, the carbon emissions generated by the return flight are equivalent to the refrigerator operating for about seven and a half months.
Carbon emissions will exacerbate the greenhouse effect, and fuel consumption will exacerbate resource consumption.
In other words, every time you travel abroad by plane, it actually has a certain impact on the environment.
As the tourism boom returns, the importance of sustainable tourism can be imagined.
Sustainable tourism means trying to reduce the negative impact on the environment and local culture while ensuring the long-term development of the tourism industry. In the 2021 European Tourism Commission document, sustainability is not the exclusive domain of professionals or academics, but something that everyone can practice.
According to a survey conducted in October 2020 by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and consulting firm Accenture, the outbreak of coronary disease has led more local consumers to make more environmentally friendly choices; about 80% of the study participants said they care about the environment, and about 41% of the time they buy something, the environmental benefits of the product or service are the most important consideration.
However, when planning a trip, it seems that fewer people are thinking about environmental protection.
People don ’ t know enough about sustainable tourism.
Tourism Australia ’ s annual Consumer Demand Plan for July and August 2021 revealed that nearly half of local travellers agreed that “sustainability is important to my life ” but only 30 per cent were willing to make environmental considerations a priority when planning their trip.
Tourism Australia ’ s regional general manager for Southeast Asia / South Asia / Middle East, Brent Anderson, explained the survey at an online seminar last month.
Taking Australia as an example, he pointed out that Singaporeans think less about sustainable tourism, perhaps because they have little understanding of the local sustainable tourism experience.
The survey also found that Australia and Japan were the top destinations for sustainable tourism, followed by New Zealand.
Perpetual tourism can be started from multiple sources.
If you want to practice sustainable tourism, you can start by reducing flight and reducing carbon flight.
Some airlines work with sustainability companies to get passengers into a carbon offset scheme.
For example, visit Singapore Airlines' carbon offset website.
singaporeair.com.sg), you can calculate the carbon emissions of your flights and the cost of offsetting them.
For example, if you want to offset the carbon emissions from Singapore to Taipei, you can choose to pay $3.39.
The money will be used to buy carbon credits that have been certified by independent agencies to fund projects that reduce greenhouse gases or help improve climate change.
Then there is accommodation.
More and more hotels are making their environmental plans clear on their websites, such as using solar energy, offering free bicycle rental services to customers, or replacing small bottled toiletries with shampoo and body soap. You can also consider the location of the hotel when booking – are there bus stops or subway stations nearby?
Or can you just walk to where you want to go? Using public transport is one of the ways to reduce carbon emissions.
The closer you get to nature, the more you can appreciate the importance of environmental protection.
Especially if you have children at home, you should try to take your children to experience the wonders of nature, whether it is hiking or hiking with higher difficulty, or snorkeling, you can make people feel that sustainable development can not be just talk.
To continue to breathe fresh air and let yourself and future generations see beautiful landscapes, it is necessary to start turning environmental protection into a part of life as soon as possible, including travel.
In terms of eating, drinking and playing, sustainable tourism is inseparable from the local food culture and historical culture.
Choose a restaurant that uses local ingredients, as well as a visit to a farm or farmer ’ s market to buy freshly picked crops or locally made food.
Mr Anderson said sustainable tourism for Tourism Australia also includes the conservation and restoration of the natural environment. Both operators and visitors must be involved in conservation “so that this generation and future generations can continue to enjoy natural wonders and culture. ” All beautiful.
Six tips for environmental protection and zero waste
There are many ways to practice sustainable travel, and one of the principles is to reduce the amount of garbage created while traveling.
Practices include:
Find out if your local tap water is safe to drink before you go, and carry your own water bottle with you to avoid buying plastic bottled water.
If tap water is not available, check with the hotel if there is a water dispenser, or glass bottled water that can be repeatedly bottled.
· Carry reusable daily necessities, such as cutlery, lunch boxes, shopping bags and handkerchiefs, avoiding disposable utensils, plastic bags and paper towels; lunch boxes can be used to hold things that can ’ t be eaten.
• Try to walk, cycle, or take transportation with a smaller carbon footprint, such as buses, subways, and trains.
· Avoid using the hotel ’ s single-use packaged shampoo and shower gel, and try to bring your own solid soap, or bathroom supplies that can be bottled repeatedly.
Understand local recycling policies and properly dispose of recyclables.
If something is broken during the trip, such as shoes or bags, try to fix it instead of replacing it immediately.
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To reduce the environmental impact of tourism, it is essential to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing energy consumption, waste, and emissions, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation and accommodations.

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Content: News
Promoting the Green Transformation of Tourism to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals
Vietnam Tourism: Promoting Green Transformation and Sustainable Development Forum was held in Hanoi on the morning of April 12.
This is an event within the framework of the Vietnam International Tourism Fair (VITM).
Vietnam Tourism: Promoting Green Transformation and Sustainable Development Forum was held in Hanoi on the morning of Dec. 412.
This is an event within the framework of the Vietnam International Tourism Fair (VITM).
The forum was divided into two sessions: “Green Transformation Awareness ” and“ Realizing Green Transformation Solutions for Tourism ”.
Participants discussed the green transformation of tourism, measures and responsibilities, and the participation of all parties to develop Vietnam's tourism industry into a green economy, circular economy industry, improve the status and growth of enterprises and the living standards of millions of workers.
He Van Chao, deputy director of the National Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, Sports and Tourism, pointed out that the green tourism trend of green, quality and health care is becoming a priority choice for many tourists.
Green is not only a color, but also the greening process of thinking and action, and thus the administrative green culture.
In a clear recognition of this, the new tourism industry has green purposes, green products and green services.
Vietnam Tourism Association President Vu Se Binh stressed that tourism has become an important economic industry in Vietnam, and is expected to contribute more than 6.4% of GDP in 2024.
Due to the impact of climate change, the transition to sustainable development is the only way.
The green transformation of tourism brings benefits to the environment, promotes biodiversity conservation, improves the living standards of tourism practitioners, and promotes economic growth.
At the forum, Patrick Harvemann, Deputy Chief Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, said that the green transformation process of tourism in Vietnam needs to focus on four major issues: green planning, effective destination management, zero waste and low-carbon tourism, and nature-based sustainable tourism.
He also said that many places have begun the process of tourism "greening", which has been carried out for many years in the capital of Guangnan Province and Gusudao County of Guangning Province to reduce the use of single-use plastic products, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental management.
Based on the “Reducing Plastic Waste in Tourism in Vietnam ” project jointly implemented by the Vietnam Tourism Association and UNDP, it has started to promote the reduction of tourism waste and the management of plastic waste.
Participants also believe that it is necessary to achieve tourism development in the direction of green growth, while promoting technological innovation, efficient use of energy, increasing the proportion of renewable energy, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
At the same time, strengthen the management of tourism destinations, improve and effectively bring into play tourism development, digital transformation policies, effectively develop development resources, and ensure the success of the greening process.
In addition, the parties concerned need to develop responsible tourism types, create jobs and share benefits with the community, implement green tourism types, promote tourism consumption and green and sustainable shopping, etc.
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Content: Dur Hospitality announced its accession to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), following the approval of the application by the organization during the 25th session of the UNWTO General Assembly held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The move underscores the pivotal role played by Dur Hospitality in promoting global tourism cooperation and developing the tourism sector in the Kingdom, through a commitment to sustainable tourism practices in line with the Kingdom ’ s tourism transformation in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Dur Hospitality continues to adopt sustainable best practices across its existing and under development projects. Riyadh Marriott Diplomatic Quarter is the first hotel in Saudi Arabia to receive the LEED Gold certification. The hotel is designed to emulate the surrounding region, with the highest standards of sustainability in terms of energy resources, recycling and use of renewable resources.
Sultan Al Otaibi, CEO of Dur Hospitality, said: “This step reinforces our role in supporting the Kingdom ’ s leadership in reshaping the future of the global tourism sector, and confirms the success of our approach to the tourism industry by investing in building a more sustainable sector and keeping pace with the requirements of the green economy, and reducing harmful emissions in line with the Saudi Green Initiative. ”“ Sustainability practice in hospitality is of the utmost importance, as millennials have become interested in tourism products and services that do not harm the environment, ” he said, stressing that “innovative and environmentally friendly technology leads to lower operational costs and thus savings in the long term, and the approach adopted to integrate sustainable practices in all hospitality operations and hotels and comply with environmental, social and governance principles helps improve brand image and increase business continuity. ”
Recent statistics show that 62% of travellers have chosen many eco-friendly hotels, restaurants and aviation, while 69% intend to make environmentally responsible travel choices in their future travel plans.
As a result, Dur Hospitality is able to develop its business network, enhance opportunities for collaboration with the more than 400 UNWTO associate members, engage in UNWTO activities, access information resources and participate in UNWTO events and meetings.
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The use of technology, such as renewable energy and sustainable tourism apps, can also help reduce the environmental impact of tourism and promote more sustainable tourism practices.

In conclusion, overtourism is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address its social, economic, and environmental impacts.

By promoting sustainable tourism practices, managing tourism development in a responsible and regulated manner, and reducing the environmental impact of tourism, we can help mitigate the negative effects of overtourism and promote more sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

It is essential to involve local communities, governments, and tourism operators in the decision-making process to ensure that tourism development is managed in a way that benefits both local communities and the environment.

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Content: Muscat : It is necessary to distinguish the tourism market of Oman from other destinations to increase the number of tourists while creating the roadmap on what's the type of nationality that Oman wants, according to a top UN official.

Speaking to the Observer on the sidelines of a regional tourism conference, Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, UN Tourism, said, "To increase the number of tourists, it is essential to have air connectivity, a roadmap on what's the type of nationality that you want and what are the next steps when it comes not only for air transportation, but also to attract luxury and sustainable cruises."

On the visa facilitation report, she said, "We mentioned it briefly. But it's true that the more open a country is, it is for the better because less bureaucracy at the end of the day is for the tourists. I feel it's a very good idea. See the European Union, that's a good example. Nearly 54 per cent of international tourism goes to the European Union."

"At the end of the day, the more open and the more coordinated you are which is much better. It's more efficient, for the tourists," she added.

On sustainability in tourism, Natalia said, "Sustainability is the way you assure economic growth, social impact and growth. And of course, environmental preservation. If you have the three of them, you go into sustainability. So, when you are talking about tourism, the good thing about tourism is that it's the most human economic sector."

"When you are creating a sustainability strategy, you need to think about the three things how tourism is helping your community to evolve in terms of employment, in terms of investments, in terms of social cohesion," she added.

She said that Oman had around 4.5 million tourism arrivals last year and it is not bad when you compare the population. “Compared to Saudi Arabia, which is booming with tourism, the uniqueness of Oman is that preservation of heritage and culture has been made a strategy that is focused on bringing people, but as well to go little by little in the way they get connected to other regions and at the end that can help on the preservation of all the routes that you have here. So, I feel that both models are good. The thing is that they are different on the way.”

2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

Ultimately, sustainable tourism practices can help reduce the negative impacts of overtourism and promote more environmentally friendly and culturally sensitive tourism, while also generating revenue and creating jobs for local communities.