Whilst mass tourism is most commonly discussed because of its negative effects, there are actually some positive impacts of mass tourism too. Mass tourism makes money.
That’s the number one motivator for all destinations who allow areas to evolve into mass tourism destinations. Mass tourism brings lots of tourists. Lots of tourists spend lots of money.
This supports economic growth in the local area and usually enables the destination to spend or reinvest the money that is made in a way that is appropriate for that particular area. Some destinations may build more hotels.
Other may make financial investments. Some may spend more money on public health services or education. However they choose to spend their money, it is money which is the motivation for tourism development. Mass tourism creates many migrant low paid jobs.
This also helps to boost the local economy as well as supporting livelihoods. Jobs can be directly related to tourism (hotel waiter or a holiday representative) or they can be indirectly related to tourism (fisherman who might supplies fish to the hotels).
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Negative impacts of Mass tourism
Mass tourism has gained a pretty bad reputation in recent years. If you Google the term ‘mass tourism’ you will be largely greeted with articles that discuss the negative impacts on the environment and society.
Mass tourism creates intense environmental pressures due to the fact that such activity involves a large number of tourists in small areas, that sometimes quadruple or tenfold the amount of the local population.
The environmental impacts of tourism include aspects such as littering, erosion, displacement of animals, damage to flora and fauna and reduction in air quality, to name but a few.
Mass tourism can also cause significant social impacts. Gentrification, increases in crime, loss of culture and authenticity and cultural ignorance are just some of the ways that large amount of tourists in a given area can negatively effect the local society.
The other major problem is economic leakage. Whilst mass tourism creates significant revenue, not all of this money remains in the destination.
In fact, because mass tourism is closely associated with all inclusive holidays and enclave tourism, it experiences more economic leakage than other areas of the tourism industry.
Economic leakage is when the money raised leaks out of the area. This is largely due to multinational chains operating within the tourism system.
If you eat McDonald’s or buy Coke, most of your money goes back to America.
How to manage Mass tourism in a sustainable way?
The key to managing mass tourism in a sustainable way is to minimize visitor numbers. OK, so that sounds counterintuitive, right? Wrong.
Yes, mass tourism is great because it brings in lots of money. BUT the problem is that it is not sustainable. Destinations cannot continue to exceed their capacity indefinitely.
But that doesn’t mean that mass tourism doesn’t have to stop altogether. There are many methods to manage tourism destinations in a more sustainable manner.
Do you know the total area of the world’s sea islands is approximately 9,963,000 sq km, which roughly accounts for 6.7% of the total land area of our planet? Islands take the human mind in awe with their captivating beauty and exciting facts.
There are nearly 900,000 official islands in the world, some of which are inhabited while a lot remain deserted. These islands offer stunning views, ideal for spending your holidays in nature’s lap.
One of the most fascinating facts about islands is that these amazing destinations are home to notable species found nowhere else on Earth.
According to UNESCO, islands are home to about 40% of all known Critically Endangered animals. Islands are not only melting pots for new species.
But they’re also responsible for some strange adaptations, allowing species to develop physically in a way we would never expect to see.
For example, you will find aquatic iguanas and flightless cormorants only in the Galapagos islands. About 97% of the island’s mammals and reptiles, 80% of the land birds, and 30% of the plants are endemic (species found nowhere else on Earth).
Islands are also popular tourist attractions for their majestic views and great fun activities. The crystal-clear waters of the islands tempt visitors to dip in the sea and get close to rich-marine life.
You can also enjoy scuba diving and other water sports on the sunny beaches of the islands while enjoying mesmerizing views of the surroundings.
One of the fascinating facts about islands is that island trips are very popular among honeymooners. It gives you an opportunity to create unforgettable memories for a lifetime while savoring delicious cuisines with your loved ones.
Islands Feature Distinct Cultures and Traditions
Unique traditions and cultures are one of fascinating facts about islands. Due to their isolation and high level of biological diversity, island communities develop distinct cultures.
Islands frequently make for great gateways and illicit feelings of romance due to their hospitable people and delicious cuisines.
For example, the Caribbean island is famous for its Latin music- salsa, mambo, and rumba. These mesmerizing beats can cause your feet to dance and your body to sway.
Example of Tools to partially control mass Tourism
- Mexico and Venice $42 p/p cruise tourism taxes
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Amsterdam (12.5% of hotel tourist charge p/p/night).
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Berlin City Tax 5%, or Austria 3% Hotel Tax compensation examples.
The Geography Teacher / ABC Flash point News 2025.
