Tourism is an important sector in every country’s economy, creating jobs and bringing income into the country. For some, it can even be the most important source of income. Although, it can be a double-edged sword with some of our favourite destinations actually being destroyed by tourism- say it isn’t so! It may never have even been on your radar that some of these amazing locations would be under so much stress, just by our very presence. Each country is tackling these issues in different ways to preserve some of the most beautiful places in the world.
Maya Bay, Thailand
Ever since Leonardo DiCaprio set his foot on Maya Bay to film ‘The Beach’ everything has changed. Between 4,000 to 5,000 people have been showing up daily ever since to swim through the clear waters, sink their feet in the white sand and capture some of the magic that we seen on our screens. But for the next 6 months the shores will be calm as the island gets some much needed respite from the hoards of visitors and boats that have reportedly put 77% of the island’s coral in danger.
Boracay Island, Philippines
Known by many as one of the best islands in the world- Boracay Island is also taking a 6 month time out from visitors. According to the president of The Philippines, the island has become a ‘cesspool’ and demanded that it be cleaned up and given a rest from both local and foreign tourists. The island is due to be reopen in September 2018.
Venice, Italy
We have long known that Venice is sinking, but the millions of tourists that flock to the popular destination certainly aren’t helping. Many of these excited visitors are mostly arriving by water taxi’s and cruise ships which can threaten the very infrastructure and historic areas that they are so eager to see.
Great Pyramids, Egypt
One of the last remaining and oldest of the original Seven Wonders of the World- the Great Pyramid of Giza may not be around for much longer. Within the last 50 years the mass influx of tourists coming to see the historic site have caused irreparable damage to these ancient structures. Built to last forever, there have been attempts to restore the pyramids to their former glory, but this has only led to further destruction.
Santorini, Greece
It wouldn’t take you too long to guess why tourists are flocking to this Greecian Island. The iconic blue rooftops, white houses, stunning views and turquoise waters as far as the eye can see, have caused tourism to boom. But now to control the influx of people, the Greek Island has capped the amount of people coming in from cruise ships to 8,000 a day.
Big Major Cay Island, Bahamas
Also known as ‘Pig Island’- a name that has significant meaning at the moment. In fact, the pigs are dying out in alarming numbers due to to visitors of the picturesque island are feeding them on the beach, leading these little piggy’s ingesting too much sand. But fear not! The government and the owners of the pigs are implementing regulations to ensure the safety of the animals.
We can all take the initiative to travel more responsibly and look after our planet! Check out our article: Save the World: Tips to becoming an Eco-Friendly Traveller
Do you know of any other destinations being destroyed by tourism? Let us know in the comments below!
