Travel is one of the most enriching experiences, but with the current state of tourism, it’s important to reassess how we travel. My personal journey with travel hasn’t always been about becoming a full-time traveler. Growing up, my dreams were far from globetrotting—I wanted to study insects and dinosaurs, and later, pursue a career in photography. After exploring options in the wilds of South Africa and working in a travel retail store, I eventually met Ana, and together, we realized that travel was our shared passion.

It was during this time I truly discovered the core of what I wanted from travel: exploration and connection with new cultures. But, like many, I was drawn to popular destinations, only to find myself part of a global trend of mass tourism. While travel has grown in popularity, it’s crucial that we reevaluate the impact of our choices on the places we visit.

The Impact of Mass Tourism

Mass tourism has become a major industry worldwide, with travelers flocking to the same overexposed spots driven by deals, social media trends, and word of mouth. It’s easy to fall into the trap of visiting only the popular places, but this leads to overcrowded destinations, strained local resources, and negative environmental impacts.

The problem isn’t traveling itself, but the overconcentration of tourists at select destinations. With cheap flights, packed schedules, and a desire to see the “must-see” places, we often ignore the quieter, equally beautiful spots. In this rush, we inadvertently contribute to the decline of cultural and natural landmarks, as well as the local economy, with profits mainly benefiting foreign companies rather than local communities.

A Shift in Perspective

The global pandemic has given us an unexpected opportunity to step back and reconsider the way we travel. With fewer tourists around, nature has begun to reclaim its space. Venice’s canals have cleared, and Everest Base Camp has been quieter than ever. This period has allowed us to reflect on what makes travel meaningful. Destinations are now showing signs of rejuvenation—cleaner streets, fewer crowds, and an opportunity to restore balance.

This shift also opens the door for local businesses to thrive without relying so heavily on mass tourism. While some businesses may have struggled, it has been a wake-up call for countries to find a more sustainable path forward, one where tourism doesn’t dominate but complements the local way of life.

How Can We Travel Responsibly?

Now is the perfect moment for a reset. While many countries heavily rely on tourism, we can make choices that have a positive impact on the environment and communities. Here are a few ideas for how you can travel more responsibly:

1. Travel Off-Peak: Visiting during off-season months not only saves you money but allows you to experience a location without the overwhelming crowds. Local businesses benefit from your support during quieter times, which helps the economy.
2. Explore Beyond the Hotspots: Don’t just follow the crowd. Wander off the beaten path and discover hidden gems that don’t receive the same level of attention. Explore areas that are rich in culture but less crowded, and you’ll have a more intimate and rewarding experience.
3. Choose Sustainable Transport: Opt for modes of transport that are better for the environment, such as trains, buses, or even bicycles. Avoid relying solely on cars and airplanes, and book your travel through eco-friendly companies.
4. Support Local Businesses: Rather than frequenting big international chains, spend your money at locally owned shops, restaurants, and accommodations. This ensures that the money stays in the community and helps local entrepreneurs thrive. Avoid contributing to gentrification, which drives up property prices and makes it harder for locals to afford living in their own city.
5. Respect the Culture and Environment: When visiting new places, always remember you are a guest. Respect the local customs, traditions, and the environment around you. Don’t engage in behaviors that you wouldn’t in someone’s home, like littering or being disrespectful to others.
6. Take a Break from the Camera: In a world dominated by Instagram and photos, sometimes it’s important to pause and simply take in the beauty around you. Rather than focusing on capturing the perfect shot, take time to enjoy your surroundings without the lens. This allows you to connect with the destination on a deeper level.

The Chance to Make a Difference

I’ve seen firsthand how unchecked tourism can damage once-pristine areas. Growing up, I visited a small pond tucked away in a forest—a place of natural beauty, where my family and I would spend hours playing in the cool waters. But years later, the area was ruined. The trees were cut down, the land bulldozed, and the once-thriving ecosystem destroyed in the name of development and tourism. This experience stays with me, reminding me how fragile these natural wonders can be when overexposed.

Unfortunately, this happens worldwide. As travelers, we have the power to make a difference. By choosing responsible travel practices, we can help preserve the beauty and culture of the places we visit. It’s up to us to ensure that future generations can enjoy these destinations without causing harm.

Final Thoughts

The world is waiting to be explored, but it’s crucial that we approach our travels with mindfulness and responsibility. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to experience new cultures, but with this privilege comes the responsibility to minimize our impact. By making conscious choices—such as traveling off-season, supporting local businesses, and respecting the environment—we can ensure that our travels contribute to the preservation of these wonderful places for years to come.

Travel is about discovery, connection, and growth. Let’s rediscover why we travel and how we can do it in a way that benefits not only ourselves but the world around us.