The echo of the phenomenon of overtourism, which has exploded in recent months as never before in Italy, has now crossed national borders, attracting attention at the international level. The massive influx of tourists, that is put historic centers to the testbeaches and the most sought-after countries, has raised a chorus of concern in the world’s leading media.
Even the Pune News, one of the most read newspapers in India, dedicated an article to this problem, highlighting how tourist overcrowding endangers the beauty and sustainability of Italy’s most iconic destinations.
The article does not stop at the simple account of the inconveniences caused by the unsustainable pressure on local infrastructures and the environment, which compromise the livability of the places both for residents and for visitors, but goes further on. In fact, try it take stock of some of the measures adopted so far by local authorities and administrations to deal with the emergency, limit the problem and, at the same time, safeguard the invaluable natural and artistic heritage of the nation.
The Italian answer to overtourism
Venice has set a precedent with its entry tickets and so other destinations have introduced a series of targeted measures mitigate negative effects of overtourism, highlighted in the Pune News article.
From anti-selfie traffic lights to traffic restrictions, here is a summary of the measures that have been adopted, sometimes not without controversy, in recent weeks by the most attractive destinations to face the challenge posed by crowding and make the most sustainable and lasting tourist experience. enjoyable for all. A useful guide to know what to expect and how to behave if you are headed towards these places.
On the beach with reservation
In many of the most popular beaches in the country, from Puglia to Sardinia, tourists must now reserve access through a specific app. A system that helps limit the number of batherswhile ensuring a more pleasant and less crowded experience.
Environmental protection
Many Italian seaside resorts have introduced restrictions on the use of cigarettes, plastic and even chairs and towels. In Sardinia, for example, the use of anchors for umbrellas made of stones has been banned, given the high number of visitors that endangers the stability of the coast. In some places, such as Santa Teresa di Gallura and Sant’Antioco, violators can face fines of up to 500 euros.
Restrictions on night activities
To maintain serenity on the beaches, the mayor of Olbia has imposed limits on nighttime activities. Restrictions include prohibition to guard the space on the beach with chairs and towels at night, camping on the beach, swimming pool at night and also the ignition of the fires. In the municipality of Sassari, loud music is no longer allowed after 2 am, but similar measures have also been adopted in Platamona, Porto Ferru and Argentario.
Anti-selfie traffic lights
In major art cities like Rome, Florence and Venice, the first made their appearance temporary traffic lights to manage the high flow of pedestrians. A measure which, underlines the Pune News article, aims to discourage tourists from lingering too long to take selfies and pictures, thus ensuring a more regular flow.
Alternate traffic on the Amalfi Coast
To decongest the scenic roads of the Amalfi Coast during peak hours, the authorities have introduced the solution of alternating vehicular traffic based on license plate number, even or odd in alternating phases.
Landing tax at Capri
The landing tax was already in force at Capri but to better manage the rush of crowds on summer weekends, it has been doubled, thus helping to regulate the flow of arrivals.
Limitations of the trails of Trentino
Even the mountain paths are not exempt from the assaults of mass tourism, so what in Trent they took actionintroducing a hiker monitoring system in the most popular areas. In this way, when a track reaches a certain crowding threshold, it is temporarily closed to ensure safety and environmental protection.