Overtourism is increasingly becoming a problem and many parts of Europe are struggling with it. Italy, for instance, struggles quite a bit with overtourism. Its quaint and small towns, though picturesque, are not built for mass tourism. One such town is that of Capri. The small town of Capri is quite picturesque. It witnessed a massive surge in tourism which has led to overcrowding. A number of other problems have also arisen.
Italy Overtourism: Capri Sees 16,000 Tourists A Day
According to an article which was recently published by the Hindustan Times or HT, a number of housing issues have cropped up in Capri. One of the major reasons why this is happening is because more and more people are giving their homes for short-term rent to tourists.
This is driving property prices insanely high. These property prices disallow locals and people who work on this island to actually live here. They end up having to commute on a ferry from Naples which becomes quite weary and hectic.
As per the HT article, the island witnesses as many as 16,000 tourists per day. This is more than the local population of the island, which is 12,900.
Also Read: No More Ice-Cream & Pizza Post Midnight In Milan, The City Finds New Measures To Control Overtourism
What Measures Can Be Taken To Solve This Problem?
So, one has to wonder what the solution to this problem might be. Venice recently introduced a tourist fee to combat overtourism. However, such a policy has always been in place on Capri. As a matter of fact, it recently doubled its tourism fee as well.
Initially, it was €2.5 but now it is €5. As per the mayor of Capri, cited in the HT article, the government is attempting to convince tourists to also visit during winter. However, unless some other serious measures are taken, it is unlikely that this will dissuade tourists.
Not all locals mind the crowd. Some are grateful for it as tourism has brought wealth to the previously impoverished region, as per a local cited in the HT article.
Have you ever been to Italy? Is it on the cards for you anytime soon? Let us know in the comments section below!
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