1. Barcelona
This century-old city has a serious over-tourism issue that isn’t going away any time soon. No matter how many bus rerouting systems and pavement expansions the city authorities make, people will still suffer lining up to witness the grandeur of Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell. If you like air and freedom, spare yourself the trip to Barcelona.
2. Big Sur
California has its fair share of must-visit places, and Big Sur has gradually become one of the go-to destinations in the sun-kissed state. The completion of Highway 1 and the free publicity from NBO’s popular Big Little Lies series have made this once secluded piece of paradise, an overly-visited area with little roadside facilities in between stops like public bathrooms, for example.
3. Bali
The hub of culture and diverse cuisine that Indonesia’s most visited island offers has created an unstoppable wave of tourism that affects both the environment and the travel experience, in general. To combat the sinister effect of uncontrolled travel, the government has started taking strict measures like banning the use of single-use plastic and considering the introduction of a tourist tax.
4. Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cambodia’s most visited attraction, Angkor Wat is definitely suffering from its own popularity. The temple complex that is more than 900 years old has sustained significant damage due to the constant influx of tourists. To decrease the rate of damage, authorities have put a limit on the daily number of tourists allowed to visit the temples. So, if you’re planning to travel there, keep in mind two things: you will often be surrounded by annoying tourists, and you may have to wait a while to get there in the first place. Decisions, decisions…
5. Matterhorn: A Catastrophic Risk
Matterhorn is a famous destination in Switzerland for a number of climbers from all around the world. However picturesque it may be from afar, that is exactly how you should see it – from afar. The prominent Swiss peak has and continues to take lives each year. In 2018 and 2019 combined, a total of 18 people fell to their fatal end while trying to conquer nature.