Tourism: Let’s put an end to the absurdity of the “Machu Picchu of the Pyrenees” and other “little Venices”

IN BRIEF Ridiculous comparison between hexagonal sites and major tourist attractions Example: an abandoned mining site in the Pyrenees nicknamed Machu Picchu of the Pyrenees Perched at 2,750 meters above sea level, this site raises questions about its enhancement Access via a demanding hike of 1,500 meters of elevation gain Discussion on the impact of mass tourism on various destinations Call for a responsible tourism that respects local cultures

The contemporary tourism sector is often marked by questionable comparisons between local destinations and iconic sites on a global scale. This phenomenon, which generates a stereotypical discourse around places, is particularly blatant with names like “Machu Picchu of the Pyrenees” or “little Venice.” Beyond the ridiculousness, this trend harms the true essence of the sites in question, diverting attention from authentic travel in favor of a reductive and commercial vision of tourism.

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An intriguing but perplexing trend #

The trend of assigning grandiose nicknames to lesser-known spaces, such as “Machu Picchu biroussan” in reference to the famous Peruvian site, seems to irrationalize the debate around tourism. Perched in the heights of the Pyrenees, this abandoned mining site, while remaining an appealing point of interest, cannot claim a valid comparison with Inca heritage. Indeed, any analogy with Machu Picchu merely erases the uniqueness of these Ariège mountains, rich in its own mining history and natural beauty.

A phenomenon that distorts the tourist experience #

This quest for fame through exaggerated labels distorts the true experience one could have in these regions. Each destination deserves to be appreciated for its own characteristics. The “Machu Picchu” of the Pyrenees is indeed accessible after an “extraordinary hike,” as claimed by the tourism office, but the assessment of its value should not rely on simplistic comparisons. By stating that it can offer “total escape without leaving the Hexagon,” the importance of a respectful and authentic approach to travel is overlooked.

The risks of mass tourism #

This sensational approach to tourism engenders a detrimental impact on the sites themselves. The allure of nicknames like “little Venice” or “Machu Picchu of the Pyrenees” can lead to an influx of visitors whose behaviors may alter the integrity of the places. The example of Machu Picchu in Peru illustrates this danger well: local infrastructures, sometimes inadequate, are put under pressure by mass tourism, which threatens the preservation of this UNESCO-listed heritage.

A call for the authentic enhancement of local heritages #

It is crucial to rethink our way of promoting destinations. Instead of clinging to comparisons that flirt with ridicule, it would be more uplifting to highlight the particularities of each region. This implies encouraging practices of sustainable tourism, which promote respect for local cultures and authentic immersion in the traditions and history of the visited places.

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Reinventing the tourist discourse #

To break out of this deadlock, it is necessary to adopt a discourse that values each destination for what it truly is. Rather than assimilating it to another globally significant site, it is appropriate to celebrate its uniqueness. The success of responsible tourism relies on the ability to apprehend sites from a new angle, far from clichés and singularly contextualized. It is possible to discover localized treasures that do not require draping themselves in the mantle of another destination to pique the interest of travelers.