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IN BRIEF
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With the rise of mass tourism, some destinations find themselves saturated and become less welcoming to travelers. In 2025, several iconic places are struggling to manage the increasing influx of tourists. This article highlights these destinations to avoid to ensure a peaceful and authentic vacation.
Agrigento in Sicily, Italy
The charming town of Agrigento, famous for its historical sites, is set to be the Italian cultural capital in 2025. However, this increased notoriety could worsen existing challenges. The region is currently facing a severe water shortage, coupled with the worst drought in three decades. The anticipated increase in visitors exacerbates these environmental issues, making Agrigento a destination to approach with caution.
The British Virgin Islands, in the Caribbean
The British Virgin Islands, prized for their paradisiacal landscapes, are currently struggling with the rise of cruise tourism. Since 2011, the lack of a true tourism strategy has amplified local problems. About 72% of visitors arrive from cruises, negatively impacting the local economy and environment. This dynamic raises concerns about the sustainability of this destination.
Kerala, in India
Famous for its palm-fringed beaches, Kerala attracts millions of tourists each year. In 2023, nearly 22 million visitors set foot there, a staggering increase. Nevertheless, this popularity is leading to natural disasters such as landslides and unregulated pressure on local resources. This situation prompts a reconsideration of travel to the region.
Kyoto and Tokyo, in Japan
The Japanese metropolises Kyoto and Tokyo are often at the center of discussions about overtourism. The influx of foreign visitors leads to tourist pollution, where local discontent intensifies due to overcrowding, rising costs, and the degradation of traditional customs. This changing context makes both cities an option to avoid for a soothing experience.
Oaxaca, in Mexico
Dynamic and rich in culture, Oaxaca is experiencing an explosion in tourism, with a 77% increase since 2020. This boom is accompanied by a surge in real estate prices, forcing locals to leave downtown. Complaints about the commercialization of culture are multiplying, making visits to this city less enjoyable than before.
The North Coast 500 route, in Scotland
The famous North Coast 500 in Scotland has attracted a considerable influx since its creation. Although the circuit aims to showcase the natural beauty of the country, the increased vehicle traffic and the development of wild camping are harming the local environment. Residents express their frustration with the consequences of tourist influx, prompting travelers to consider alternative routes.
