The Intelligence from The Economist Arrivals haul: anti-tourism’s folly
Aug 8, 2024
Corbin Duncan, an insightful writer for The Economist, dives into the contentious relationship between tourists and locals in popular destinations. He discusses the anti-tourism sentiment and how blunt policies can backfire, emphasizing the need for balance. The conversation also touches on Russia's creative military recruitment strategies amid personnel shortages, and explores the rising trend of 'dumb phones,' as people seek a simpler, less tech-driven life.
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Tourism Boom
- Global tourism is booming, exceeding pre-pandemic levels with 1.5 billion arrivals expected.
- Emerging markets show the strongest growth, with some doubling their international arrivals since 2019.
Tourism's Economic Impact
- Tourism significantly boosts local economies, contributing 3% to global GDP and 6% of all trade.
- Countries with strong tourism sectors, like Greece and Portugal, experienced higher growth rates than the EU average.
Barcelona's Tourism Concerns
- Barcelona locals protest against tourism, citing concerns about tacky shops and its impact on the city's character.
- This reflects a broader concern about tourism being a relatively unproductive industry with low-paying jobs and stunted educational investment.