A Dark Side of Tourism: How Overcrowding Threatens Portugal's Future

As a kid, I was captivated by Arch Oboler's radio play "The Laughing Man" a masterful example of radio horror that delves into madness, revenge, and human experimentation. Oboler's skillful use of sound and narrative created a story that still haunts listeners decades later. Set in the future, it tells of a historian who discovers a ridiculous ancient text about a great civilization that thrived by doing everything for their children, only to destroy each other and their children with their advanced technology. Initially dismissed as a joke, the parable rings true for today's mass tourism and its destructive impacts on once cherished places.

Overtourism has far-reaching environmental impacts. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), transport-related carbon emissions from tourism are expected to increase by 25% from 2016 to 2030, rising from 5% to 5.3% of all man-made emissions. Iconic coral reefs like the Great Barrier Reef and Maya Bay in Thailand, made famous in the Leonardo DiCaprio film "The Beach," have been degraded by visitors who snorkel, dive, and touch the corals, as well as by tour boats anchoring in the waters. Similar issues have led to closures of Algarve's Benagil Caves.

Tourism also has significant local impacts on people. Landlords evict tenants and local shops to turn properties into travel rentals, driving up house prices and displacing residents in places like Lisbon's Alfama district. As the number of visitors and rental properties surpasses that of local residents, traditional communities are scattered. Skyrocketing prices, long lines to see sites, crowded monuments, excessive noise levels, and damage to historical sites like Sintra's Pena Palace further exacerbate the problem.

Tourism has undoubtedly boosted Portugal's economy by revitalizing buildings and bringing in tax revenue. However, cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos have seen real estate prices surpass the purchasing power of locals, and traditional commerce has suffered amid the crowds. Like the tale in "The Laughing Man," Portugal's tourism boom threatens to destroy the very things it cherishes. But a new government presents an opportunity to change not only the system but also the marketing to make tourism work for all of Portugal. It's not too late to act, and by doing so, Portugal can remain a great destination for the long run. what can be done? A lot!

Promote Lesser-Known Destinations

Why not encourage tourists to explore less-visited regions such as Alentejo, Trás-os-Montes, and the interior borderlands of Raia. Highlight the unique attractions and experiences these areas offer.

Niche Tourism

Develop and market niche tourism segments like eco-tourism, agrotourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism over golf. These niches can attract specific groups of tourists who are more likely to engage in sustainable practices.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Support and certify hotels, hostels, and rental properties that adopt sustainable practices. Promote these eco-friendly accommodations in digital marketing campaigns.

Sustainable Transport Options

Invest in and encourage the use of rail, cycling, and walking tours. This would be much more sustainable than cruise ships and bus tours.

Local Sourcing

Encourage tourism businesses to source products and services locally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods.

Responsible Tourism Campaigns

Launch educational campaigns that inform tourists about the importance of respecting local cultures, preserving natural environments, and supporting local businesses.

Visitor Guidelines

Provide clear guidelines on how to be a responsible visitor. This can include tips on waste management, conservation practices, and cultural sensitivity.

Community-Based Tourism

Develop tourism initiatives that involve local communities in planning and decision-making processes. This ensures that tourism development aligns with the interests and well-being of all residents.

Profit Investment

Implement models where a portion of tourism revenue is reinvested into local community projects, infrastructure, and conservation efforts. And a tourist head tax is a great way to start.

Control Development

Enforce regulations, as seen in Italy and Spain, that limit the number of tourists in sensitive areas to prevent overcrowding and environmental damage.

Seasonal Marketing Campaigns

Create digital marketing campaigns that encourage travel during the off-peak seasons. Highlight the benefits of visiting during these times, such as fewer crowds and lower prices.

Cross-Border Collaborations

Collaborate with neighboring Spain to create cross-border tourism experiences that spread the tourist footprint across a larger area, like the Raia.

Sorry to unload so many thoughts, but to me Portugal is a very special place, one that should be cherished and loved. And arriving should be a bit as the scene in A Cidade E As Serras

by Eça de Queiroz. A young man from a Portuguese family arrives in his homeland for the first time: "I awoke wrapped in a wide and sweet silence. It was a very quiet train station, very clean, with white roses climbing the walls—other roses in bushes, in a garden, where a small pond covered in moss slept under two blooming mimosas that gave off a scent. A pale young man, wearing a honey-colored jacket, was bending his cane against the ground, contemplatively watching the train. Squatting next to the garden fence, an old woman, in front of her basket of eggs, was counting copper coins in her lap. Pumpkins were drying on the roof. Above, the deep, rich, and soft blue sky sparkled, a sight my eyes had longed for."