Too many people in too short a time divided between too few locations
This is how mass tourism can be summarized. It is particularly prevalent in destinations that have unique beauty or landmarks and can be intensified by advertising and, above all, by social media (keyword: Instagramability). The phenomenon already emerged after the 2nd World War, when the intensity of travel increased dramatically due to economic, social and societal boom factors. Since 1950, the number of travelers worldwide has increased by a good 1.4 million (Statista, 2019).
Such a number of travelers, especially when concentrated in a few places, causes problems that players in the travel industry have become even more acutely aware of since the pandemic brought them to a standstill. In addition to the damage to the environment caused by arrivals by plane or private car, there is also the disturbance to local residents who are in the minority in their own region during peak travel times. In addition, there is seasonal work (and the associated unemployment afterward), destruction of nature, increased waste generation and a generally very high consumption of resources.
The solution: fewer people spread over a wider area over a longer period of time
Sustainable or soft tourism is often presented as a solution to the problem of mass tourism. However, the focus is often solely on the arrival and interaction with the local residents, booking sustainable accommodation, for example. However, sustainable tourism should also look at visitor management and motivate travelers to travel outside the high season(s) and avoid sights at peak times. It also makes sense for travelers to consider the surroundings of their favored destination. Maybe they do not need to stay in the center of town but rather choose an accommodation that is off the beaten track.
Far away from the crowds: The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Allgäu
„We don’t have mass tourism in Balderschwang,” writes the team of the Allgäu wellness hotel. In general, the team recommends its guests to rather look at the small places in the surrounding area and not focus too much on the big cities. A special insider tip: Holzschuhmacher Devich in the neighboring Austrian community of Hittisau in the Bregenz Forest.
The HUBERTUS is not only a refuge in name but actually is one. Here, guests are allowed to arrive and find peace. In addition to the large Mountain Spring Spa, the focus on yoga and Ayurveda and the regional and healthy food also play a significant role.
All Inclusive
Luksusowy kwartalnik turystyczno-podróżniczy. Od 2004 roku opisujemy miejsca, do których warto lecieć dłużej niż na weekend, i ludzi, którzy je prowadzą.
