Published on
November 17, 2025
Iceland Joins Italy, Greece, Thailand, Canada, Mauritius, and Top Travel Destinations in a Bold Move to Combat Anti-Tourism Sentiment and Protect Locals. Tourism has long been hailed as a vital part of global economies, but the rapid growth of visitors to popular destinations has sparked a rising wave of anti-tourism sentiment. Overcrowding, environmental degradation, and rising costs of living have left many local communities feeling overwhelmed and undervalued. As a result, destinations around the world are now taking bold steps to address these challenges. Iceland, alongside Italy, Greece, Thailand, Canada, Mauritius, and other top travel hotspots, is stepping up in a significant way, recognising the need to protect local communities while still fostering a thriving tourism industry.
Iceland, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders, has experienced a tourism boom in recent years. The influx of visitors has not only strained the country’s infrastructure but has also raised concerns about the preservation of its fragile environment. With its increasing popularity, Iceland is now taking a stand, implementing policies to manage the flow of tourists while protecting its natural beauty. By joining forces with other leading travel destinations like Italy, Greece, and Thailand, Iceland is pushing forward with innovative solutions to tackle overtourism and balance the needs of both residents and visitors.
Italy, another popular European destination, has also been grappling with similar issues. Cities like Rome and Venice have long been saturated with tourists, leading to overcrowding, rising property prices, and a loss of local culture. In response, Italy is focusing on promoting lesser-known regions, encouraging tourists to explore areas beyond the usual hotspots. This shift not only helps alleviate pressure on popular destinations but also allows for a more balanced distribution of economic benefits. By introducing stricter regulations on tourism and visitor behaviour, Italy is taking significant steps to protect local communities and preserve the authenticity of its cities.
Greece, known for its iconic islands and rich history, faces similar challenges. Mykonos, Santorini, and Athens are all experiencing high volumes of visitors, contributing to overcrowding and increased housing costs. In an effort to manage these pressures, Greece has implemented a tourist levy for cruise passengers and imposed stricter regulations on short-term rentals. These measures are aimed at protecting the housing market and ensuring that tourism remains a sustainable industry, benefiting both visitors and local residents alike.
Thailand, a global tourism giant, has also faced criticism for its environmental impact and the negative effects of mass tourism. Popular destinations like Pattaya and Phuket have become synonymous with overcrowding and environmental degradation. However, Thailand is shifting its focus from sheer visitor numbers to attracting higher-value tourists who are more likely to respect local customs and contribute positively to the economy. Through targeted campaigns promoting sustainable travel, Thailand is working to reduce the negative externalities associated with overtourism and create a more responsible tourism model.
Similarly, Canada and Mauritius are taking proactive measures to ensure that tourism benefits local communities without overwhelming them. In Canada, cities like Vancouver and Banff are implementing regulations on short-term rentals and visitor flows to protect housing and local infrastructure. Meanwhile, Mauritius is focusing on sustainable tourism practices that support local communities and preserve the island’s unique culture and environment. Both countries recognise the importance of managing tourism in a way that fosters long-term sustainability and protects their natural and cultural resources.
Together, these countries are demonstrating a bold move to combat anti-tourism sentiment and protect locals from the negative impacts of overtourism. Through innovative policies and a focus on sustainable travel, Iceland, Italy, Greece, Thailand, Canada, Mauritius, and other top travel destinations are reshaping the future of tourism. They are proving that it is possible to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the needs of local communities, ensuring that these destinations remain vibrant, authentic, and sustainable for years to come.
1. Netherlands: Amsterdam’s Shift to Sustainable Visitor Management
Amsterdam has long been one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, but the city has recently faced significant challenges related to overtourism. Local residents have voiced concerns about overcrowding, noise, and the increasing number of short-term rentals taking away much-needed housing. The Dutch capital’s historic charm has increasingly been overshadowed by the disruptive side of mass tourism.
Government Responses
Amsterdam has implemented the “Tourism in Balance” policy, which sets a maximum of 20 million overnight stays and day visits per year. Beyond this limit, the city will take steps to reduce the flow of visitors. To further curb growth, new hotel constructions are banned unless an existing hotel closes, effectively limiting the number of tourist accommodations in the city. Amsterdam is also cracking down on short-term rentals and tourist shops, aiming to reclaim certain tourist accommodations for housing.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
Amsterdam’s new approach emphasises quality over quantity. The goal is to foster a visitor economy that benefits the city as a whole, while preserving the livability of local neighbourhoods. The city is shifting from a focus on attracting as many tourists as possible to a more sustainable model, prioritising the types of tourists who contribute positively to the community and economy.
Key Takeaway
The Netherlands is redefining tourism with a focus on “how many tourists?” rather than just “how many tourists”. By regulating growth and involving local communities in the decision-making process, Amsterdam aims to protect both its residents and its tourism industry.
2. Iceland: Managing Visitor Flow to Preserve Natural Wonders
Iceland, known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists seeking to experience its glaciers, volcanoes, and geysers. While tourism has greatly boosted the country’s economy, it has also put immense pressure on its environment and infrastructure. Iceland is now facing the challenge of managing tourism growth without compromising its unique natural assets.
Government Responses
The Icelandic government has raised accommodation and tourism taxes to help manage visitor flows and generate revenue for infrastructure improvements. In addition, the country is rolling out Destination Management Plans (DMPs) in various regions to better coordinate tourism development and ensure a balanced approach to growth.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
Iceland’s tourism strategy is designed to preserve the environment while ensuring that the benefits of tourism are felt by local communities. By decentralising tourism and encouraging visitors to explore less-visited regions, the government aims to reduce pressure on popular destinations like the Golden Circle, thereby distributing the economic benefits more evenly across the country.
Key Takeaway
Iceland is focusing on sustainable tourism by regulating visitor flows, promoting off-peak travel, and decentralising tourism to protect its natural beauty and the wellbeing of local communities.
3. Italy: Spreading the Tourism Load Across Lesser-Known Destinations
Italy has always been a magnet for tourists, with iconic cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence drawing millions of visitors each year. However, overtourism in these cities has led to overcrowding, housing pressures, and a loss of local authenticity. In response, Italy is shifting its tourism focus to encourage more balanced and sustainable visitation.
Government Responses
Italy’s “Great Italian Destinations for Sustainable Tourism” programme promotes lesser-known areas, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the famous tourist hotspots. In addition, the government has imposed stricter regulations on tourist behaviour, with fines for visitors who engage in disruptive actions.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
The strategy is to redistribute tourist traffic across the country, spreading economic benefits and reducing the strain on overcrowded cities. Italy is also regulating tourist behaviour to preserve its cultural heritage and the dignity of local residents. By promoting “responsible tourism,” the country aims to shift the focus from sheer visitor numbers to a more thoughtful, sustainable model.
Key Takeaway
Italy is embracing the concept of “responsible visitors” and redirecting tourism away from its most popular destinations, allowing for a more equitable distribution of visitors and preserving local heritage.
4. Greece: Implementing Levies and Regulations to Protect Local Communities
Greece, with its beautiful islands and historical cities, has been struggling with overcrowding, particularly in tourist hubs like Mykonos, Santorini, and Athens. The overwhelming influx of visitors has led to housing shortages, infrastructure pressures, and a growing resentment among locals. The Greek government is now stepping in to ensure that tourism remains a sustainable industry while also addressing local concerns.
Government Responses
Greece has introduced a cruise ship levy for visitors to Santorini and Mykonos, discouraging short-stop visitors and generating funding for infrastructure improvements. In addition, stricter regulations on short-term rentals have been enforced, including higher taxes and licensing freezes in certain areas.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
The Greek government is encouraging longer stays and more responsible tourism. By targeting the housing market disruption and promoting sustainable practices, Greece is trying to maintain its tourism industry while improving the quality of life for its residents.
Key Takeaway
Greece is balancing the need for economic growth through tourism with the preservation of its local communities and infrastructure, ensuring that tourism supports rather than detracts from resident welfare.
5. Portugal: A Data-Driven Approach to Sustainable Tourism
Portugal, like many other popular European destinations, has seen a sharp increase in tourism, particularly in its coastal cities and historic towns. While the economic benefits have been substantial, local communities have expressed frustration over overcrowding and the pressure on housing. In response, Portugal is taking a more data-driven approach to managing tourism growth.
Government Responses
The “Tourism Strategy 2027” plan by Turismo de Portugal aims to promote sustainable tourism and encourage visitation to less-visited regions. Additionally, the government is using data and indicators to inform policies, ensuring that tourism growth does not compromise the wellbeing of residents.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
Portugal’s strategy focuses on regional coordination and sustainable development. By promoting less-visited areas, the country is spreading the economic benefits of tourism and preventing the negative impacts of mass tourism on local communities.
Key Takeaway
Portugal’s proactive approach to tourism management, based on evidence and data, is helping to ensure that tourism grows in a way that benefits both visitors and residents.
6. Thailand: Shifting Focus from Volume to Value
Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. However, the tourism industry has faced criticism for its environmental impact, particularly in places like Pattaya and Phuket. Local communities have voiced concerns about the negative effects of mass tourism, and the government is now focusing on shifting the emphasis from volume to value.
Government Responses
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is promoting “Quality Tourism,” focusing on attracting high-value visitors who contribute more to the economy and are more likely to respect local culture and the environment. Digital campaigns are being used to encourage sustainable travel and responsible tourism.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
By prioritising high-value tourism over mass tourism, Thailand aims to reduce the negative externalities associated with large numbers of visitors. This approach not only benefits local communities but also supports long-term sustainability.
Key Takeaway
Thailand is adapting to the growing demand for tourism by emphasising quality over quantity, ensuring that tourism continues to benefit local communities while reducing its environmental footprint.
7. Rwanda: Promoting Eco-Tourism with Local Benefits
Rwanda, known for its mountain gorillas and breathtaking landscapes, has avoided the overtourism crisis seen in many other destinations. However, the government is still mindful of ensuring that tourism supports both the environment and local communities.
Government Responses
Rwanda’s tourism strategy focuses on eco-tourism, with an emphasis on conservation and community involvement. High-value niche tourism, such as gorilla trekking, generates significant income for local communities while promoting environmental protection.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
Rwanda’s eco-tourism model ensures that local communities benefit directly from tourism activities. By focusing on sustainability and conservation, Rwanda is preserving its natural resources while providing jobs and economic opportunities to residents.
Key Takeaway
Rwanda’s eco-tourism strategy is a model for other countries looking to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability and community benefit.
8. Canada: Regulating Short-Term Rentals and Visitor Flows
In Canada, cities like Vancouver and Banff are grappling with the pressures of overtourism, particularly the housing affordability crisis exacerbated by short-term rentals. Local residents have expressed concerns about the impact of tourism on their communities, prompting government action.
Government Responses
Municipal governments have introduced regulations on short-term rentals, including taxes and visitor flow management strategies. These measures aim to curb the negative effects of tourism on housing markets and local infrastructure.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
Canada is focused on ensuring that tourism is compatible with local environmental and housing needs. By regulating visitor flows and short-term rentals, the government is helping to protect the wellbeing of local residents while still supporting the tourism industry.
Key Takeaway
Canada’s balanced approach to managing tourism demonstrates that even in well-resourced countries, proactive measures are necessary to mitigate the impacts of mass tourism on local communities.
9. Australia: Protecting the Environment and Supporting Local Communities
Australia’s tourism industry, particularly in destinations like Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef, has faced increasing scrutiny due to its environmental impact. The government is taking steps to address concerns about the long-term sustainability of tourism and its effects on local residents.
Government Responses
Australia’s regulatory frameworks now emphasise sustainable tourism, with a focus on conserving natural assets and supporting local communities. Policies include restrictions on visitor numbers in sensitive areas and measures to prevent overcrowding in major tourist destinations.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
Australia’s approach to tourism management prioritises both the protection of natural resources and the wellbeing of local residents. By focusing on sustainability and local community benefits, Australia is setting a precedent for other countries dealing with similar challenges.
Key Takeaway
Australia’s proactive approach to tourism management ensures that both the environment and local communities benefit from tourism, rather than suffering from its negative effects.
10. Mauritius: Sustainable Tourism for Small Island Communities
In small island nations like Mauritius, the rapid growth of tourism has led to concerns about displacement of locals, environmental degradation, and changes to the local economy. The Mauritian government is taking steps to ensure that tourism benefits the local population while maintaining the island’s ecological balance.
Government Responses
Mauritius’ national tourism strategy emphasises sustainable tourism and community inclusion. The government is focusing on limiting mass resort development and ensuring that tourism planning involves local communities to protect housing and preserve local culture.
Balancing Local Needs and Tourism
By prioritising local benefits and environmental protection, Mauritius is ensuring that tourism supports rather than disrupts its residents. The government’s focus on sustainability aims to prevent the erosion of local cultures and economies.
Key Takeaway
Mauritius’ tourism model shows how small island nations can balance the benefits of tourism with the preservation of local communities and environments.
Brief Overview of Countries Balancing Tourism and Local Needs
Several countries are responding to rising anti-tourism sentiment by implementing strategic measures to manage visitor flows while safeguarding local communities and environments. The Netherlands has capped tourist numbers and banned new hotel constructions in Amsterdam, focusing on quality tourism. Iceland promotes off-peak travel and decentralises tourism through regional management plans. Italy is spreading tourism across lesser-known regions and regulating tourist behaviour. Greece has introduced visitor levies and stricter regulations on short-term rentals to protect local housing. Portugal is using data-driven strategies to promote sustainable tourism and regional development. Thailand has shifted focus from volume to high-value, responsible tourism. Rwanda is focusing on eco-tourism that benefits local communities. Canada and Australia are regulating short-term rentals and visitor flows, while Mauritius is ensuring tourism benefits local populations through sustainable practices. These countries demonstrate proactive measures for managing tourism growth.CountryTourism Issue / Anti-Tourism SentimentGovernment ResponseBalancing Local Needs & TourismKey TakeawayNetherlands (Amsterdam)Overcrowding, nuisance behaviours, short-term rentals replacing housing, tourism pressure on residents’ quality of life.– “Tourism in Balance” policy capping overnight stays at 20 million annually.
– Ban on new hotels unless an existing one closes.
– Restrictions on holiday rentals and tourist shops.Shifting focus from tourism volume to quality and sustainable visitor management. Giving local neighbourhoods a greater voice in tourism policy.Netherlands is moving from “how many tourists?” to “how many and what kind?” Focus is on sustainable growth and quality of life for residents.IcelandEnvironmental concerns, infrastructure strain, over-tourism in key hotspots.– Increased accommodation and tourism taxes.
– Development of Destination Management Plans (DMPs) to manage visitor flows.Encouraging off-peak travel, decentralising tourism away from popular sites. Ensuring tourism benefits the local community without overwhelming infrastructure.Iceland is focused on regulating visitor flows and decentralising tourism to protect the environment and local life.ItalyOvercrowding in cities like Rome and Venice, pressure on housing, loss of local culture and authenticity.– “Great Italian Destinations for Sustainable Tourism” to promote lesser-known destinations.
– Fines for misbehaving tourists.Redirecting tourists to lesser-known areas, spreading economic benefits, and preserving local culture.Italy is moving towards responsible tourism by focusing on visitor behaviour and redistributing tourist traffic.GreeceOvercrowding, housing crisis due to short-term rentals, pressure on infrastructure in islands like Mykonos and Santorini.– Cruise ship levy to reduce short-stay visitors.
– Stricter regulation on short-term rentals and accommodation taxes.Promoting longer stays, discouraging one-day visitors, and regulating housing to preserve local quality of life.Greece aims to keep tourism booming while reducing the negative effects of mass tourism through careful regulation and taxes.PortugalOvercrowding in cities, dissatisfaction with mass tourism in coastal areas, housing pressures.– “Tourism Strategy 2027” promotes regional tourism and sustainable growth.
– OECD-supported initiatives for evidence-based policies.Using data and indicators to ensure tourism growth is inclusive and sustainable, focusing on less-visited regions.Portugal is proactively addressing anti-tourism sentiment with strategies that emphasize sustainable and inclusive tourism.ThailandOvercrowding in destinations like Pattaya, environmental degradation, local resentment towards mass tourism.– Promoting “Quality Tourism” to attract high-value, sustainable visitors.
– Digital campaigns for responsible tourism.Focus on value over volume, encouraging responsible tourism that supports local communities.Thailand is shifting its focus to higher-value visitors and sustainable tourism to reduce the negative impacts of mass tourism.RwandaLess about overtourism, but concerns about ensuring tourism benefits the environment and local populations.– Focus on eco-tourism (e.g., gorilla trekking) with local community involvement.High-value niche tourism that supports conservation and local employment.Rwanda’s model of eco-tourism ensures that local communities benefit, avoiding the issues associated with mass tourism.CanadaHousing affordability issues, pressure on infrastructure, especially in cities like Vancouver and Banff.– Municipal governments regulating short-term rentals and introducing local tourism taxes.Balancing tourism with environmental protection and infrastructure support in national parks and major cities.Even in well-resourced countries, unchecked tourism can cause significant local concerns, requiring thoughtful management.AustraliaEnvironmental degradation, housing pressures, concerns over residents’ quality of life in cities like Sydney.– Regulatory frameworks emphasising sustainable tourism and conservation of natural assets.Policies that benefit local communities and protect the environment, especially in natural areas like the Great Barrier Reef.Australia is focusing on proactive tourism management to avoid overtourism and ensure the protection of both residents and natural assets.MauritiusAwareness that mass tourism can displace locals, cause environmental damage, and disrupt the economy.– National tourism strategy prioritising sustainable tourism and social inclusion.Limiting large resort developments and engaging local communities in tourism planning.Mauritius focuses on ensuring that tourism serves the needs of local communities, not just external visitors.
In conclusion, as anti-tourism sentiment rises globally, many countries are increasingly aware that tourism must evolve to meet the needs of both visitors and local residents. These nations are stepping up efforts to address the negative impacts of overtourism, implementing strategies that ensure a balance between the economic benefits of tourism and the preservation of local environments and communities. The countries we’ve discussed in this article, such as the Netherlands, Iceland, Italy, and others, are leading the way in finding solutions to this growing issue. They are showing the world that it is possible to maintain a thriving tourism industry without sacrificing the quality of life for residents or the integrity of their unique cultural and natural resources.
By focusing on sustainable tourism practices, these nations are setting an example for how destinations can manage rising tourist numbers. They are moving away from simply increasing visitor volume to prioritising the right kind of growth. For instance, Amsterdam is limiting overnight stays, while Iceland is implementing taxes to regulate visitor flow. Likewise, Greece and Italy are encouraging tourists to explore lesser-known areas, helping to ease pressure on crowded locations. This shift from quantity to quality is critical in ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism without being overwhelmed by it.
Furthermore, the governments of these countries are recognising that local communities must be involved in the decision-making process. Through collaboration and data-driven policies, they are working to ensure that tourism growth aligns with local needs, promoting inclusivity and sustainability. For example, Portugal is using data indicators to inform tourism strategies, while Rwanda is focusing on eco-tourism that directly benefits local populations.
In light of these efforts, the future of tourism looks promising, but only if nations continue to prioritise responsible visitor management. By striking a balance between growth and sustainability, these countries are not only protecting their cultural and natural heritage but also fostering a tourism model that is more equitable and beneficial to all. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that tourism, when managed correctly, can thrive while benefiting both the global economy and the local communities that make these destinations so special.
