Impact of overtourism on urban life

Abstract

The unrestrained and constant inflow of tourists to some cities can provoke the discomfort of residents. The term ?overtourism? describes a condition in which the limits are exceeded to the point that regular everyday urban life suffers. The quantity of visitors and resulting crowds create burdens on the functioning of some city services, and they simultaneously result in a deterioration in the quality of sightseeing. This paper gives a review of the academic literature concerning this issue, especially studies concentrating on cruising and alternative short-term renting. Major complaints raised by locals on the negative impact of tourism are not only about overcrowding, but also include the serious social and economic questions of the endangerment of rights. In order to regulate and mitigate conflicts, preserve identity and allow decent urban life in all its aspects, city governments are forced to introduce some limitations and rules in the sphere of tourism, and also with regard to the real-estate market and urban planning. The level of measures and policies required depend on the type of problem, size of the city and dispersion of the attractions.