Category: Socio-cultural issues

Tourism rescues Omalo, Georgia, from oblivion

Adventure tourists have thrown the remotest mountain region of the country an economic lifeline – but at what cost to ancient traditions and customs? The gains of tourism by way of new jobs and economic growth are tinged with the knowledge that part of their cultural heritage will be lost as the transactional nature of tourism is at odds with the hospitality for which Georgia is famed.

The rebirth of Tasmanian indigenous culture

For palawa, there has been a seismic shift in recognition in recent years, with a new embrace of indigenous culture across Tasmania. Teaching has been one of the most significant changes in Tasmania's relationship with its indigenous past and there is now a strong desire to hand down traditions that came so close to being lost.

Overtourism: Venice tries tracking tourists

Can mobile phone data and surveillance cameras help restore the city’s old-world charm, or just destroy what magic remains? City officials plan to use the data to prevent overcrowding and inform the use of the gates and the booking system that come into force next year. However, many say high-tech solutions will not bring a more authentic Venice back to itself.

Machu Picchu’s strict pandemic rules may be here to stay

The pandemic has spurred the implementation of crowd management measures at Machu Picchu, the 15th century Incan archaeological site that has traditionally been marred by issues related over-tourism. The new hourly quota system and limit to group sizes now look here to stay, along with predetermined paths that visitors must follow.

How does a UNESCO World Heritage rating affect a tourist destination?

The announcement of new additions to the UNESCO list can be a cause for excitement, but 2021’s has been more dramatic than most. With all the fuss around who will make the cut and who won't, there's one question that hasn't been answered: Does UNESCO designation really make a difference with travellers?

Latest articles

The future is murky for SAF under Trump

Production of domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has grown rapidly in recent years, driven in part by Biden administration incentives. But early moves by the Trump administration are fueling uncertainty about what will come next.