Verona to Venice

May 16, 2018May 16, 2018 / conservetourism / Leave a comment

Wondering the streets of Verona and Venice, with no particular direction or aim, is the best way to explore these cities. Both have winding narrow lanes that will open to a plaza, a great bar or small coffee shop. The opportunity to sit, think of nothing and enjoy a wine or a coffee whilst people watching is probably one of the most wonderful things.

These cities are designed to make you fall in love. Maybe leave that for another trip, I think you will enjoy getting lost even more!

Tourist tax… Let’s call it something else

May 15, 2018May 16, 2018 / conservetourism / Leave a comment

Tourist taxes are popping up after 2017’s overtourism woes. Some are designed to reduce low paying tourists, including stag parties in Amsterdam. But other taxes, including the Balearic Islands tourist tax, are designed to raise funds for ecological projects. Travellers may not understand the necessity of these payments. Calling it a tourist tax doesn’t inform travellers and will never be popular. Simply put, nobody likes paying tax! Replacing the term ‘tourist tax’ with ‘tribute’ may soften the blow, here’s how… Continue reading →

Lake District – England

May 13, 2018 / conservetourism / Leave a comment

This was a walking holiday to take to get away from everything. The Lake District delivered on a grand scale! It was unbelievably wet when I arrived and I realised right from the start that I had packed too much. The tent I bought, along with camping stove and pots was destined never to be used, it was too wet. Instead, I stayed in YHA’s dorms and took day trips to surrounding mountains. One of the most beautiful places I have ever been to.

Overtourism – The Industry’s solutions

April 28, 2018May 12, 2018 / conservetourism / Leave a comment

The holiday season in Europe is about to kick off. This is good news for some but perhaps creating more upset for locals who have been protesting about tourism numbers. Tourism overload is likely to be 2018’s biggest problem and one that has no definitive solution.

Last year, I investigated the causes of overtourism as it approached its pinnacle. This year, governing bodies had time to react and create solutions. I wonder which one of the following 7 implemented solutions to the overtourism problem will be the most successful… If any. Continue reading →

Travel is now lost

March 31, 2018April 27, 2018 / conservetourism / Leave a comment

Today, travel assistants will guide you through countries to the ‘not to be missed’ destinations. You will be guaranteed a bed for the night and reassured that previous visitors have enjoyed their stay with no nasty surprises. All can easily be booked in advance along with accommodation, so people often plan their route even before arriving.

Travel has become easier, safer and less stressful but, to what expense? Perhaps we have lost one of the most exciting elements of travel, ‘chance’ and with it, the sense of discovery, stepping into the unknown with unexpected encounters. Continue reading →

Finland

March 18, 2018March 18, 2018 / conservetourism

A place full of trees and kind people. I may be a little biased because my girlfriend is Finnish… But, I truly love this country, its language, the fact the floor is covered in mushrooms and blue berries and they know how to cook the best chicken wings!

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Portugal

March 15, 2018March 18, 2018 / conservetourism / Leave a comment

Lisbon, in my view the food capital of the world. Eat at as many restaurants as you can, sample their wines and don’t forget their custard tarts since this is where they were invented – Pasteis de Belem.