B2 – Upper Intermediate
Overtourism is a term used to describe the negative impact of increased tourist numbers on popular destinations. This phenomenon has gained attention in recent years as many cities and natural sites struggle to cope with the overwhelming influx of visitors. While tourism can foster economic growth and promote cultural exchange, the excessive crowds can lead to significant challenges for both the environment and local communities.
The negative effects on natural environments, local communities, and urban infrastructure emphasize the need for sustainable practices in the travel industry. By making conscious efforts to manage visitor numbers and promote responsible tourism, we can preserve the beauty and integrity of our beloved destinations for future generations.
Read the article and learn how a community reacted to this problem.
Spanish Fed Up with Overtourism Are Blocking Zebra Crossings
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the noun “grievance” mean? “Spain has seen many overtourism protests this year, but one small village has been making its grievances known in a very unusual way. “ Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
- What does “to take it upon oneself” mean? “In the Galician village of O Hío in northwest Spain, locals took it upon themselves to protest against the volume of tourists by blocking zebra crossings.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “traffic gridlock” mean? “Walking up and down them for a total of 37 minutes, they caused total traffic gridlock – worsening the exact problem they hoped to highlight.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your reaction the locals’ protest?
- Does your city have the same problem? Talk about it.
- What are some popular destinations in your city you think are suffering from overtourism? And what measures have been taken in order to have everything under control.
- What do you think is the best solution to this problem?
- How do you think it is like living in an overly touristic place?
- Share your thoughts on this, “Authorities should find a mutually beneficial solution so that residents and visitors can co-exist happily.“