Make Me Smart Is it possible to be a "good tourist"?
Jul 1, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Christopher Gaffney, a professor at NYU's Tisch Center, unpacks the effects of overtourism on cities around the globe. He addresses tensions between locals and tourists, emphasizing the need for sustainable travel practices that benefit communities. Gaffney also explores the responsibility of travelers to engage meaningfully and suggests that mindful tourism can enhance both the visitor's experience and the hosts' quality of life. Plus, listeners weigh in on travel preferences and the role of unions in this dynamic landscape.
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Mass Tourism as Extractivism
- Mass tourism is a form of extractivism taking value from locals for tourists' benefit.
- It alienates residents as tourists consume culture with little meaningful interaction or benefit to the community.
Be a Thoughtful Guest
- Think of yourself as a guest and show respect as if visiting someone's home.
- Hosts should set rules and expectations to shape guest behavior positively.
Engage Meaningfully With Locals
- Travelers should engage more meaningfully with local cultures beyond transactional visits.
- Building connections and understanding host cultures enrich experiences and reduce harm.