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IN BRIEF
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The black summer of tourism in Corsica raises crucial questions about the future of this popular island. With alarming attendance figures and growing concerns about environmental impact, the picture is shaping up worryingly. Turmoil linked to summer overpopulation, forest fires and pressure on local resources are plunging the sector into an unprecedented crisis. This observation, full of anxiety, leads us to question: are we really on the verge of catastrophe, or are there avenues for reflection and action to renew this course towards more sustainable and balanced tourism?
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Crowd heatwave: an alarming observation #
In the middle of the summer season, the shadow of a crisis unprecedented looms over island tourism in Corsica. The testimonies of local actors, like those of restaurateurs and hoteliers, show a attendance at half mast, which continues to grow. In Zonza, this small village in Alta Rocca, a shopkeeper is worried about the situation: “It seems like the high season hasn’t started, it’s like it’s June. » This feeling is repeated across the island, where a significant drop in tourist clientele is observed.
Supporting data: The decline in arrivals #
The numbers speak for themselves. According to the Corsican Chamber of Commerce and Industry, statistics reveal a decrease in 10% of passengers in Corsican airports in July, compared to the previous year. On the maritime side, the decline is less marked, but it remains worrying. The trend is part of a series of declines, highlighting a growing lack of attractiveness of the region compared to other Mediterranean destinations, as underlined by Francis Berfini, hotelier in Poggio-Mezzana.
The cost of transport: a major obstacle #
Professionals in the sector point to the high price of transport as the main obstacle to the attraction of Corsica. A mother testifies: “We paid 1,350 euros for three round trips by plane, a significant budget which limits our vacation budget. » This observation is all the more bitter as prices have increased considerably compared to 2019.
Rising costs of living: a difficult reality #
Beyond transport, it is essential to consider the cost of living in Corsica, which is 7% higher than on the continent according to INSEE. Vacationers find themselves in a strong position to adjust their expenses facing unattainable prices. Leisure activities and meals have a cost that can quickly become prohibitive. Marie and David, a couple on vacation, confirm: “We are very careful with money, because everything is expensive here. »
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A changing sector: the rise of alternative accommodation #
Another phenomenon impacting the sector is the rise of furnished tourist accommodation. The 48% increase in these non-professional rentals in four years leads to a unfair competition for traditional accommodation players. César Filippi, president of the hotel and restaurant group, testifies to the dramatic situation in his establishment: “We only have 30% of reservations for the end of August, it’s alarming. »
Emergency measures: save the season? #
Faced with this decay, efforts are being made to boost attendance. Promotions of up to 30% on airline tickets for those who book packages incorporating a flight and standard accommodation have been offered. However, these initiatives do not seem sufficient to reverse the worrying trend of this summer season.
Towards an uncertain future? #
Hopes remain high for the end of the summer, but voices are being raised to report an alarming very short-term situation. “We are probably heading towards liquidations and a very difficult return to school for the sector,” predicts César Filippi. The fears of a economic disaster for tourism in Corsica are materializing day by day, suggesting a radical reconfiguration of this vital sector for the island.
