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How Tourism Can Be Good for Coral Reefs

Data highlights opportunities for the tourism industry to support better conservation outcomes

April 25, 2017

View The Study

Coral reefs could be considered the poster child of nature-based tourism. People come specifically to visit the reefs themselves, to swim over shimmering gardens of coral amongst hordes of fish. But even if you aren’t snorkeling or diving on a reef, your tropical beach vacation was likely made possible by a coral reef.

The world’s coral reefs perform many essential roles. They are home to the fish that provide the food - and often livelihoods - for nearly 100 million people. They also act as barriers against the worst impacts of storms, protecting the beaches and the millions of people who live around and rely upon them. By modelling the economic contributions of coral reefs to global and local economies, this work can be used to persuade governments of the importance of investing in their protection.

Quote : Source: Mapping Ocean Wealth

The global economic value of coral reefs for tourism is $36 billion/year

Source: Mapping Ocean Wealth

In a  study published in the Journal of Marine Policy , The Nature Conservancy’s Mapping Ocean Wealth (MOW) initiative and partners, used an innovative combination of data-driven academic research and crowd-sourced and social media-related data to reveal that 70 million trips are supported by the world’s coral reefs each year, making these reefs a powerful engine for tourism.

In total, coral reefs represent an astonishing $36 billion a year in economic value to the world. Of that $36 billion, $19 billion represents actual “on-reef” tourism like diving, snorkeling, glass-bottom boating and wildlife watching on reefs themselves. The other $16 billion comes from “reef-adjacent” tourism, which encompasses everything from enjoying beautiful views and beaches, to local seafood, paddleboarding and other activities that are afforded by the sheltering effect of adjacent reefs.

There are more than 70 countries across the world that generate more than 1 million dollars per square mile.

In fact, there are more than 70 countries and territories across the world that have million dollar reefs—reefs that generate more than one million dollars per square kilometer. These reefs support businesses and people in the Florida Keys, Bahamas, Mexico, Indonesia, Australia, and Mauritius, to name a few. Demonstrating this value creates a powerful incentive for local businesses and governments to preserve these essential ecosystems.

The Conservancy’s  Atlas of Ocean Wealth , and the accompanying  interactive mapping tool , serves as a valuable resource for managers and decision makers to drill down to determine not just the location of coral reefs or other important natural assets, but how much they’re worth, in terms of their economic value as well as fish production, carbon storage and coastal protection values. By revealing where benefits are produced and at what level, the MOW maps and tools can help businesses fully understand and make new investments in protecting the natural systems that underpin their businesses.

The Methodology

Along with traditional data-driven academic research, and research from the emerging fields of crowd-sourced and social media-related data, a combination of tourism datasets that included hotel rooms, general photographs, underwater photographs, dive centers and dive site were used to render and improve crude national statistics, and also to cross-validate with independent datasets – for example, using hotel locations alongside number of photos taken in a location to independently show tourism spread at national levels, and using dive-sites and locations of underwater photographs to distinguish between tourism activities that take place directly on the reef (e.g., snorkeling, diving) versus tourism activities that indirectly benefit from the presence of coral reefs (e.g., enjoying pristine beaches, calm waters, and fresh seafood).

The data is available in the  mapping application , which allows users to view and compare economic and visitation values of coral reef tourism around the world. Users can also focus on specific geographies, such as Florida, the Bahamas, the Eastern Caribbean, and Micronesia, to view a more fine-scale distribution of values in these regions.

Armed with concrete information about the value of these important natural assets, the tourism industry can start to make more informed decisions about the management and conservation of the reefs they depend on—and thus become powerful allies in the conservation movement.

The concept of valuing nature isn’t a new one, but the detailed, targeted knowledge of the MOW initiative presents an opportunity for the travel and tourism industry to lead both in the private sector, institutionalizing the value of nature into business practices and corporate sustainability investments, and in the sustainability movement more broadly by capturing the business opportunities that exist when we realize that we need nature.

Quote : Dr. Robert Brumbaugh

It’s clear that the tourism industry depends on coral reefs. But now, more than ever, coral reefs are depending on the tourism industry."

Dr. Robert Brumbaugh

For those interested in learning more, or if you have questions or feedback, contact us at  [email protected] .

Atlas of Ocean Wealth

This Atlas represents the largest collection to date of the economic, social and cultural values of coastal and marine habitats globally. View Atlas

Mapping Ocean Wealth

Understanding in quantitative terms all that the ocean does for us today, so that we make smarter investments and decisions for the ocean of tomorrow. Visit Site

Recreation and Tourism Data Portal

Dig in to visualize and simplify global, regional and local ecosystem benefits for use in natural resource planning and policy decisions. Explore the Data

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BEACHES & COASTS

Beaches & coasts.

Vacations and beaches are practically synonymous.  Stretches of pristine coastline provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind, so it’s no surprise that beaches are among the planet’s most popular tourism destinations. In fact,  80%  of all tourism takes place in coastal areas.

But the high visitor appeal of beaches can threaten these critical ecosystems and contribute to their decline. We seek to balance tourism growth in coastal areas to preserve both the environmental health and attractiveness of these beloved destinations.

Coastal Habitats

Beyond being a tourist hotspot, coastal destinations also serve as important wildlife habitats. Beaches provide homes for sand-dwelling critters like crabs and clams. Their sandy shores also act as nesting grounds where sea turtles and shorebirds come to lay their eggs.

Even the grasses and shrubs that grow along coastlines play an important ecological role. The roots and leaves of these plants help prevent beach erosion and ocean pollution. Mangroves are an especially beneficial type of coastal vegetation due to their ability to store even more carbon than terrestrial forests.

Explore the Issues

Tourism can actually contribute to the degradation of the beautiful beaches that visitors love.  Unregulated coastal development may lead to coastal erosion and habitat destruction, while actions by tourists and businesses can harm local wildlife. Click below to learn more about the different issues that we’re addressing to protect these sensitive ecosystems.

When resorts and other infrastructure is built too close to the shoreline it can cause erosion and destroy critical habitats.

Destructive Coastal Development

When tourists or others leave their rubbish on the beach it can endanger local wildlife and spoil the natural beauty of iconic destinations.

Beach Litter & Debris

Unsustainable behavior by tourists or tourism businesses can pose a risk to coastal animals and habitats.

Harmful Wildlife Interactions

When too many tourists flock to the beach it degrades the visitor experience and disturbs coastal wildlife.

Overtourism

How we safeguard nature.

Discover what we’re doing to protect beaches and minimize tourism’s impacts on nature and wildlife.

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Coastal and Ocean Tourism

• First Online: 16 August 2017

Cite this chapter

• Stefan Gössling 3 ,
• C. Michael Hall 4 &
• Daniel Scott 5  

5211 Accesses

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Coastal and marine environments attract hundreds of millions of tourists every year, and in regions including the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, tourism is a mainstay of the economy. Given that a considerable share of tourism is ‘sun, sand, and sea’ focused, the sector is dependent on the integrity of coastal resources such as unpolluted beaches and waters. These resources are increasingly threatened: External and tourism-related pressures on coastal zones include land conversion and industrial developments, water pollution, loss of mangroves, introduction of invasive species, and overuse of resources (e.g., fresh water or marine species used as seafood and souvenirs). Climate change is exacerbating these problems through sea-level rise, changing rainfall patterns, or higher water temperatures linked to coral bleaching and algal blooms, all of which affect the viability of coastal tourism destinations. In this situation, the management of coastal ecosystems for tourism is paramount. Yet, even though a wide range of management tools is theoretically available, there is evidence that coastal governance is limited and hampered by economic interests and unequal power relations. Considerable political effort will be needed for tourism in coastal zones to become more sustainable and to adapt to on-going environmental change.

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Stefan Gössling

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Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada

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Gössling, S., Hall, C.M., Scott, D. (2018). Coastal and Ocean Tourism. In: Salomon, M., Markus, T. (eds) Handbook on Marine Environment Protection . Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-60156-4_40

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Coastal and marine tourism represents at least 50 percent of total global tourism . It constitutes the largest economic sector for most small island developing states and many coastal states. Securing the long-term sustainability and viability of this sector is critical for the continued prosperity of the destinations and communities that rely on it.

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The 25 Best Coastal Cities in the World

By Katherine LaGrave

Edinburgh, Scotland

Why we love it: Coastal Edinburgh is the second-most populated city in Scotland after Glasgow. As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is best known for its annual Fringe Festival, which is the largest international performing arts festival in the world. Hike up to Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano , for the best views of the city, and visit Edinburgh Castle to see where the crown jewels are kept. However you set your itinerary, make sure to leave time to sample the city's burgeoning gin scene .

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we love it: Famous for its laid-back culture and non-stop nightlife, New Orleans is called The Big Easy for a reason. Despite being best known for Mardi Gras , New Orleans has much to offer all year round: think some of the world's best jazz, the historic French Quarter, and Creole cuisine , which melds French, African, and American flavors.

Venice, Italy

Why we love it: The world's preeminent floating city, Venice, built on more than 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea, is actually the closest thing the world may have to a city existing on water. Hail a water taxi or gondola to wind through the city, and if you have time, get out of the historic center and head for the outer islands .

Bangkok, Thailand

Why we love it: With winding canals, floating markets, stunning Buddhist art and architecture, and some of the world's best street food , it's not wonder Bangkok makes the list. Lesser known attractions? Bangkok also has excellent cycling tours and—surprise!— golf courses . Wat Phra Kraew, a Buddhist temple in the Grand Palace, is the most popular of all temples in the city, and is regarded as the most sacred temple in all of Thailand.

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Honolulu, Hawaii

Why we love it: Notable for its beaches, flora, and fauna, Honolulu is in the midst of a regional cuisine movement , and also plays host to the largest collection of Hawaiian and Polynesian artifacts in the world at the Bishop Museum. Even better? Temperatures here average the mid-80s, but rarely exceed the mid-90s.

Miami, Florida

Why we love it: The flashy star of Florida, Miami is called the Magic City for a reason. Residing at the southern tip of the Eastern Seaboard, Miami is popular for its beach life and for snorkeling, scuba, sailing, boating, and fishing. On land, its vibrant dining and nightlife scenes dominate most of the conversation, but the city is also an international arts hub.

Istanbul, Turkey

Why we love it: Despite its recent terrorist attacks , Istanbul will no doubt always be a popular destination. As the largest city in Europe, it straddles the continental divide, built on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait. Go here for the Blue Mosque, vibrant markets, and natural Turkish baths.

Perth, Australia

Why we love it: Often overlooked in favor of Sydney and Melbourne, Perth, the capital of Western Australia , has prime exposure to the wild Indian Ocean. As a result, the city has beautiful beaches , several national parks with protected wildlife areas, and botanical gardens. Perth also draws visitors for its annual music festivals (Stereosonic and Future Music) and growing reputation as one of the country's most underrated destinations .

Oslo, Norway

Why we love it: The capital of Nordic cool, Oslo is located on the southern coast of an inlet called Oslofjord. Here, the Viking Ship Museum actually has three viking ships , and multiple green spaces like Frogner Park help make it an amenable city for walking and picnicking. For an epic road trip , start in Oslo and end in Kirkenes, in the far northeast.

Dubai, U.A.E.

Why we love it: The only seven-star hotel in the world. Floating, underwater villas . The tallest buildings in the world. Is there anything Dubai can't do? One of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai draws tourists for its shopping malls (they've got the biggest one of those, too) and futuristic architecture.

Lisbon, Portugal

Why we love it: We've said it before: Lisbon is Europe's most underrated capital . The largest city in Portugal, Lisbon sits beside the Tagus River, and is home to nearly 30 percent of the nation's population—consider its seafood and cafe culture, Europe's largest indoor aquarium, and celebrated coastal parks, and it's easy to see why.

Los Angeles, California

Why we love it: Home to Hollywood and 871 museums and galleries (more than any other city in the world, per capita), sunny Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the U.S. Add in a diverse food scene, expansive ocean views, and excellent live music, and it's easy to see why everyone puts up with all of that traffic.

Helsinki, Finland

Why we love it: The capital of Finland, Helsinki sits on the Gulf of Finland and is the northernmost European Union capital. The archipelago of Helsinki actually comprises some 330 islands , which means that come summer, you can jump on a ferry and get away from the (relative) hustle and bustle of the city . Fun fact: Though it's known for its winter sports, it actually hosted the Summer Olympics in 1952.

Why we love it: Hong Kong has 1,223 skyscrapers, and its skyline is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Located on the South China Sea, the special administrative region of China—and major international port—is a culinary capital for street food , but also one of the world's most expensive cities . Hike to the top of Victoria Peak, the highest point in the city, for the best views.

Dublin, Ireland

Why we love it: Dublin 's position on the Irish Sea has helped make it a cultural capital, and the setting for James Joyce's Ulysses and Dubliners . It also has more green space per kilometer than any other European city, and boasts Ireland's most popular tourist attraction— the Guinness Brewery .

New York City

Why we love it: Thanks to its presence in song and on screen, New York , flanked by the Hudson River and the Atlantic, is arguably the most well-known city in the world. The accolades keep rolling in: The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most visited museums in the world, and Central Park is also the most visited park in the U.S. Visiting soon? See how many things you can cross off this locals' list.

Tokyo, Japan

Why we love it: Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, ultramodern Tokyo is responsible for everything from the rise of capsule hotels to gold ice cream cones . (At Yokohama Stadium, technology even allows for two interchangeable playing surfaces.) As of 2008, 36 percent of the Tokyo prefecture was designated a national park.

San Francisco, California

Why we love it: San Francisco 's stunning views of the nearby Pacific Ocean and the famous Golden Gate Bridge are some of the most popular postcard shots in the world. Here, there are also more than 200 miles of bike paths, 1,000 acres of mountain ranges and hiking trails, and one of the world's most extensive Chinatowns. Sit by the San Francisco Bay, and you may just spot migrating whales.

Sydney, Australia

Why we love it: Sydney has some 70 beaches, rock pools that remain something of a religion, and a world-famous waterfront, so its inclusion on this list comes as no surprise. Visitors and residents alike also love its Royal National Park, the Australian Museum, and—yep— those flat whites .

Chicago, Illinois

Why we love it: Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S., and widely considered the modern birthplace of jazz and blues. Located at the bottom edge of Lake Michigan, the cosmopolitan city also has a vibrant sports scene (Wrigley Field, anyone?), some of the world's best restaurants, hip hotels, and the famed Art Institute, which alone sees 1.5 million visitors annually.

Why we love it: Comprising 63 islands, this city-state near Malaysia and Indonesia is extremely diverse, with 38 percent of its population identified as foreign nationals. It's got a high cost of living , sure, but it also has UNESCO World Heritage sites, the world's largest collection of Southeast Asian art , and the world's largest rooftop infinity pool at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Why we love it: Technically built on two islands in the Baltic Sea, the Danish capital has a bevy of bridges, waterside walkways, and parks connecting the Renaissance City. Copenhagen is home to the world's oldest monarchy, the second-oldest amusement park in the world in Tivoli Gardens, and a burgeoning craft beer scene .

Vancouver, British Columbia

Why we love it: Visit Vancouver, and it's easy to see why there are so many devoted loyalists to the western Canadian city . Downtown Stanley Park has more than 1,000 acres of waterfront and woodlands, and for those looking to spend some time inside, the Anthropology Museum at the University of British Columbia has one of the best collections of indigenous art in the world. As one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Canada, Vancouver also aims to be the greenest city in the world by 2020, and already gets 93 percent of its electricity from sustainable methods.

Barcelona, Spain

Why we love it: Barcelona is the largest city on the Mediterranean Sea. Annually, the capital of Spain's Catalonia region draws some nine million tourists , for anything from Gaudí architecture to the historic Camp Nou football stadium. The city also has some of the best eats in the world— we're looking at you, tapas.

Auckland, New Zealand

Why we love it: Sandwiched between two harbors and sitting atop a volcanic field, Auckland, nicknamed "The City of Sails," has thousands of sandy beaches perfect for anything from surfing to sunbathing. The Auckland Art Gallery also has more than 15,000 pieces on display, and nearby, people can tour sets from the Lord of the Rings movies.

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• Brief Communication
• Published: 09 January 2023

Coral reefs and coastal tourism in Hawaii

• Bing Lin   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-5905-9512 1 ,
• Yiwen Zeng 1 ,
• Gregory P. Asner   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7893-6421 2 &
• David S. Wilcove 1 , 3  

Nature Sustainability volume  6 ,  pages 254–258 ( 2023 ) Cite this article

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• Biodiversity
• Conservation biology
• Ecosystem services
• Environmental impact

An Author Correction to this article was published on 14 March 2023

This article has been updated

Coral reefs are popular for their vibrant biodiversity. By combining web-scraped Instagram data from tourists and high-resolution live coral cover maps in Hawaii, we find that, regionally, coral reefs both attract and suffer from coastal tourism. Higher live coral cover attracts reef visitors, but that visitation contributes to subsequent reef degradation. Such feedback loops threaten the highest quality reefs, highlighting both their economic value and the need for effective conservation management.

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Data availability.

The live coral cover data are available in the Zenodo repository ( https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4292660 ). The human activity, site accessibility and water conditions data are available through the Ocean Tipping Points project ( http://www.pacioos.hawaii.edu/projects/oceantippingpoints ) and the Hawaii Statewide GIS Program ( https://geoportal.hawaii.gov/search?collection=Dataset ). Meta reached out to the authors after publication and asked that the original Instagram dataset uploaded in the accompanying Zenodo repository be removed from public access to limit user data exposure and its risk of misuse.

Code availability

Meta reached out to the authors after publication and asked that the original web-scraping script uploaded in the accompanying Zenodo repository be removed from public access to limit user data exposure and its risk of misuse.

Change history

14 march 2023.

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-023-01102-y

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Acknowledgements

We thank T. Bearpark, F. Guo, M. Donovan, A. Friedlander, K. Oleson, J. Lecky and J. Abraham for input that informed the study’s conception, design and analyses; T. W. Shawa for help with geospatial modeling; T. Bearpark, A. M. Zuranski, J. A. G. Torres, B. J. Arnold and N. Ondrikova for input on machine learning models; Z. Volenec for the base Selenium WebDriver Python code; the Ocean Tipping Points project and the Hawaii Statewide GIS Program for all site accessibility, human activity and water condition data; and the High Meadows Foundation and Princeton University for ongoing support of this work. Airborne mapping was funded by the Lenfest Ocean Program of The Pew Charitable Trust.

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Authors and affiliations.

Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA

Bing Lin, Yiwen Zeng & David S. Wilcove

Center for Global Discovery and Conservation Science, Arizona State University, Hilo, HI, USA

Gregory P. Asner

Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA

David S. Wilcove

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Contributions

B.L. conceived this study and wrote the first draft; G.P.A. provided the live coral cover data; B.L. and Y.Z. carried out the analyses with input from G.P.A. and D.S.W.; B.L., Y.Z., D.S.W. and G.P.A. contributed to all subsequent iterations of the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Bing Lin or David S. Wilcove .

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Extended data

Extended data fig. 1 instagram and hawaii tourism authority visitation validation (2018–2021)..

Aggregated Instagram visitation data plotted against yearly daily censuses at the county level conducted by the Hawaii Tourism Authority from 2018 to 2021. The line shows the regression point estimate between variables and the shaded area depicts 95% confidence intervals.

Extended Data Fig. 2 Live coral cover and overall visitation at the 20 most-visited sites in Hawaii.

Overall visitation at the top 20 most-visited sites in the main Hawaiian islands plotted against absolute median live coral cover at each of these sites. The name, location and visitation rank of the top 10 most-visited sites are labeled.

Extended Data Fig. 3 Relationship between overall and on-reef visitation in Hawaii.

The relationship between on-reef and overall visitation across 333 bays and beaches in the main Hawaiian islands. The line depicts the regression point estimate between variables and the shaded region represents 95% confidence intervals.

Extended Data Fig. 4 Littoral buffer construction schematic.

A schematic of how each littoral buffer was constructed in ArcGIS Pro 3.0 for various calculations of benthic composition, human activity, and water conditions at each coastal site.

Extended Data Fig. 5 Histograms of on-reef and overall visitation across coastal sites in Hawaii.

Histograms depicting the discontinuous distribution between high- and low-visitation sites for both overall visitation (top figures) and on-reef visitation (bottom figures) across both the most-visited sites ( n = 100) and all sites ( n = 333).

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Lin, B., Zeng, Y., Asner, G.P. et al. Coral reefs and coastal tourism in Hawaii. Nat Sustain 6 , 254–258 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-022-01021-4

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Published : 09 January 2023

Issue Date : March 2023

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-022-01021-4

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Not such a rare species, after all insights into drymonema gorgo müller 1883 (cnidaria, scyphozoa), a large and little-known jellyfish from brazil.

• L. S. Nascimento
• M. A. Noernberg
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Aquatic Ecology (2024)

Coastal tourism

EU coastal areas are amongst the most preferred touristic destinations for European and international travellers, making coastal and maritime tourism the biggest, growing sector of the EU Blue Economy in terms of GVA and employment. Coastal tourism comprises recreational activities taking place in the proximity of the sea (such as swimming, sunbathing, coastal walks, and wildlife watching) as well as those taking place in the maritime area, including nautical sports (e.g. sailing, scuba diving, cruising, etc.). Over half of the EU bed capacity is concentrated in regions with a sea border. For the economy of many non-landlocked EU Member States, tourism generates a significant portion of the national revenue. It has a wide-ranging impact on economic growth, employment and social development. Tourism is particularly significant for Southern European countries, such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, Malta and Greece. At the same time, coastal tourism is characterised by high seasonality , with demand concentrated in a limited number of months, usually July and August.

In 2020, Coastal tourism kept generating the largest share of employment and GVA in the EU Blue Economy, with 51% and 26%, respectively. EU Blue Economy Report 2023

The statistics presented in this section originate from the following expenditures by tourists in EU coastal areas: •    Accommodation •    Transport •    Other expenditures (e.g. food, culture, recreational activities, water-sport equipment and clothing).

The sector was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of European citizens suddenly could not travel.

In March 2020, tourism came to a grinding halt, and its turnover did not fully recover until 2022 when the total number of nights spent in EU tourist accommodation reached 2.73 billion (against the pre-pandemic level of 2.88 billion nights in 2019).

In 2022, tourism figures in all months were higher than in 2021, with the fourth quarter of 2022 recording 472 million nights. In total, nights spent went up by 49% compared to 2021 (1.83 billion nights).

In 2020, the GVA generated by the sector amounted to €33.9 billion, down from €81.5 billion registered in 2019, i.e., a year-on-year 58% contraction.

Gross profits, at €3.9 billion, shrunk by more than 85% in 2019. 

Click here to read more

While recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Coastal tourism sector has engaged in the sustainability transition with the aim to green its operations, reduce its negative impacts on the marine environment, and strengthen its  resilience to exogenous shocks such as commodity and fuel price inflation.

For this purpose, the European Commission has published the Tourism Transition Pathway involving all tourism stakeholders. The updated Industrial Strategy (2021) calls for the acceleration of green and digital transformation to increase the European economy's resilience.

The strategy also identifies 27 initiative areas for the green and digital transition to improve tourism in the EU. These include:

•     Regulation and public governance , which includes; improving statistics and indicators for tourism and comprehensive tourism strategies.

•     Green and digital transition , which includes; research and innovation projects on circular and climate-friendly tourism and support for digitalisation of tourism SMEs and destinations.

•     Resilience , which includes; seamless cross-border travelling, fostering skills in tourism, promoting fairness and equality in tourism jobs, and accessibility.

As part of the EU Sustainable Blue Economy , the coastal and maritime tourism sector has been identified as an area with potential to foster a smart, sustainable and inclusive Europe. The EU's tourism policy aims to keep Europe's position as a leading tourist destination while also maximising the industry's contribution to economic growth and jobs.

Interaction with other sectors

While European destinations are welcoming tourists at pre-pandemic levels, the rise in tourist numbers and their concentration in attractive touristic destinations may generate issues of over tourism, particularly in  coastal areas and small island. Increasing tourism intensity requires long-term solutions .

At the same time, Covid-19 will likely have long-term impacts on EU citizens’ travelling behavior. A recent Eurobarometer survey showed that 82% of EU citizens are ready to change their travel and tourism habits to be more sustainable, for example, by consuming local products (55%), choosing ecological means of transport (36%) or by paying more to protect the natural environment (35%) or to benefit the local community (33%). The survey also found out that 38% of European respondents are expecting more domestic travelling in the future .

One example of a sustainable approach to coastal and maritime tourism is the ECO-CRUISING FU_TOUR .

For many experts in the business, this is a game-changing opportunity that will lead to greater and faster adoption of more sustainable environmental solutions and greater respect for coastal natural and cultural qualities of coastal areas. The European Green Deal and the new EU Sustainable Blue Economy can help in such green transitions, thanks to policy reforms, specific financial mechanism, as well as innovation, digitalisation, education and training.

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Coastal Tourism

• Pre-covid-19

10% of all international visitors that arrive in UK go to coast

The Coast comprises a very high rate of SMEs (with less than 3% corporate brands represented)

Coastal Tourism in England is highly seasonal, but change was happening as a result of investment in research, product development and marketing:

Key challenges facing coastal communities:

Seasonality

• Productivity
• Perceptions (consumers, media and government)

Climate Change – coastal storms / flooding Business ownership and investment

• Large number of micro and small businesses – difficult to coordinate and deliver change
• Prior to covid, 28% of businesses said they were “planning to sell / retire in next 5 years”

High dependency on Tourism average 15-20% of employment - but 50%+ in places like St. Ives, Exmoor, Whitby and Newquay

Socio-economic pressures on Coastal Communities Skills Brexit

But there are opportunities:

Addressing seasonality and attracting off peak growth markets

• International visitors
• Domestic visitors - Wellness, Slow tourism, Business Events, Under 35s, Empty nesters (over 55s) and Active Experiences

Wider sector or coastal opportunities…

• England Coast Path

Impact of Covid-19

Pre-COVID spend £13.7bn in England

2020 England – coastal impact of COVID-19

Based on July re-opening, loss of international travel and reduced capacity due to social distancing, November lockdown

Verified with National Business Survey data on capacity and revenue

• 95m trips and day visits
• £7.64bn loss in tourism spend
• Equivalent of circa 131,000 jobs

2021 England – coastal impact of COVID-19

Based on closure Jan-Mar, partial April reopening, very limited international travel, reduced capacity and busy summer

• 44m trips and day visits (-23% on pre-Covid-19)
• £5.15bn loss in tourism spend
• -37% on pre-Covid spend / 41% increase on 2020

Hotel Solutions forecast 20-25% of accommodation in coastal communities will close

Institute of Fiscal Studies - there “is no longer a north-south, or urban-rural divide… coastal areas are notably vulnerable to both the health and economic impacts of the crisis” – especially Isle of Wight, Torquay, Blackpool, Dorset and Northumberland

Other reports highlighting impact on coast

Centre for Towns, The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on our Towns and Cities report 2020 Institute for Employment Studies, Labour Market Statistics June 2020: IES Analysis Social Markets Foundation Report HOPE not hate Charitable Trust, Understanding Community Resilience in Our Towns report 2020 Social Investment Business Group: Covid-19 Coastal Communities The Place Bureau Report

Domestic tourism on the Coast

South west is the most popular region for seaside visits:

Visitor Profile demographics:

Source:GBTS 2019

Socio-economic group

International visitors to the coast

10% visit the English coast at some point during their stay in UK

88% are on break of 4+nights (non coastal visitors = 55% on 4+ night break)

210,000 jobs worth £3.6bn (Sheffield Hallam University 2014) + 1% growth

Higher than average concentration of SMEs in coastal visitor economy

<3% corporate brands on the coast (National Coastal Tourism Academy 2015)

31% of residents work part-time → Net outflow of commuters (ONS 2014)

Contact details

+44(0)1202 093 429 [email protected]

I've lived on the Amalfi Coast for 17 years. Here are the 7 mistakes tourists should avoid making while visiting.

• After living on the Amalfi Coast for 17 years, I've seen many tourists make the same mistakes.
• Instead of taking a day trip , tourists should plan to spend more time on the Amalfi Coast.
• I also recommend visiting spots outside Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

I believe every trip to the Amalfi Coast should be just as beautiful as the coastline itself. Like the roughly 5 million travelers who visit each year, I fell in love with the Amalfi Coast while on vacation. In fact, I loved it so much that it's now been my home for 17 years.

However, during my time living on the coast, I've seen tourists make the same mistakes over and over again. Luckily, many blunders can be avoided with some tips from a local.

Here are the seven most common mistakes I see tourists make while visiting the Amalfi Coast.

Choosing the wrong season to travel to the Amalfi Coast

Tourist season on the Amalfi Coast typically runs from Easter through October . While the coast is beautiful throughout the year, it's important to keep in mind that many hotels, restaurants, and shops close during the offseason. Additionally, ferry service connecting the Amalfi Coast villages only runs during the tourist season.

If you're dreaming of a classic beach vacation , the best time to visit is from July to September. Although April, May, and October are excellent times to visit, the sea might be too chilly for some swimmers.

Renting a car and attempting to take on Amalfi Drive

Driving the famously narrow and zigzagging Amalfi Drive is not for the faint of heart. It's also not a fun experience for most drivers — including the locals. Given the crowded roads and expensive (or nonexistent) parking, tackling the drive as a tourist is not a good idea.

Instead, opt for the ferries that connect many of the villages along the coastline. If you're a driving enthusiast and the experience is one you'd like to try, I'd suggest driving along Amalfi Drive during the offseason.

Seeing the Amalfi Coast on a day trip

The beauty of the Amalfi Coast is no secret, and visitors come from around the world to see the pastel-hued buildings and swim in the turquoise sea.

But with travelers arriving every day by ferries, buses, and cruise ships, the narrow roads and small villages are easily overwhelmed, especially during the high season.

To avoid getting caught up in the day-tripping crowds, I recommend planning a longer stay. This way, you can enjoy the peaceful mornings and relaxed-evening ambiance. You'll likely enjoy your vacation more, and it's better for the local economy, too.

Only visiting the three most popular towns

While Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are the three most popular destinations , the Amalfi Coast is made up of 13 distinct villages . From tiny seaside gems to villages nestled in the mountains, there's so much more to discover.

Related stories

Explore the ruins of an ancient Roman villa in Minori, enjoy the coastline's longest beach in Maiori, try locally caught anchovies in Cetara, taste wine from century-old vines in Tramonti, and shop for colorful ceramics in Vietri sul Mare.

Forgetting to carefully check accommodation details before arrival

Nothing ruins a trip to the Amalfi Coast like a bumpy arrival. For example, many tourists are surprised to find their accommodation is located far outside the center of a village. Before booking, and certainly before arriving, be sure to check the exact location of where you're staying.

Keep in mind that many of the villages on the Amalfi Coast have several frazioni (hamlets). Although they're part of the larger village, these smaller villages can be located well outside the historic center.

If you're looking for a quiet getaway, this can be a pleasant surprise. However, it can be far less convenient for transportation and shopping.

Likewise, steps are a way of life on the Amalfi Coast. Be sure to check the number of steps it will take to reach your rental and arrange for assistance with luggage in advance.

Not wearing proper footwear for hikes

The Amalfi Coast has two sides — the sea and the mountains. Hiking paths offer incredible views that are well worth the many steps.

The Path of the Gods , which is located above the towns of Praiano and Positano, has become extremely popular in recent years. However, injuries and even deaths happen every year along this popular hike.

It's important to always stay aware — even with the distractingly beautiful vistas — and to wear proper footwear. While many of the hikes in the area don't require hiking boots, you do need comfortable and supportive shoes with good tread.

If you want to hike but aren't very experienced, a local trekking guide can help you plan ahead and enjoy a hike that is safe and right for you.

Not taking time to uncover the local history

While a day (or two or three) at the beach is a must, the Amalfi Coast has a surprisingly rich history that many visitors completely miss.

Uncover the area's ancient Roman past at the Museo Archeologico Romano di Positano , where visitors can see the ruins of an ancient Roman villa that was destroyed by the same 79 AD eruption of Mt. Vesuvius that covered Pompeii.

Next, stop at the Cathedral of Amalfi to visit the peaceful Cloister of Paradise and the excellent museum and crypt.

Meander through town to the top of the valley to visit the Paper Museum , set in a 13th-century mill, to learn more about the town's important handmade paper tradition.

If you're curious to know more about the Amalfi Coast, hiring a local tour guide will bring the past to life.

• Main content

On Monday’s show: The tourist climate on the First Coast

On Monday we'll talk with the president and CEO of Visit Jacksonville about the job of marketing and selling Northeast Florida.

• Michael Corrigan .

Then, measuring the health of the St. Johns River by documenting its sea grasses. Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman will join us to talk about an upcoming river voyage of exploration.

And, spreading the message of mental health on the streets — literally. We'll talk with organizers of Chalk It Up 4 Life about resources for people in crisis. Sheryl Johnson founded Hearts 4 Minds after losing her son, Alex (pictured), to suicide.

Plus, WJCT reporter Dan Scanlan gives us the latest on JTA’s increasingly controversial automated vehicle system.

10 Tourist Faux Pas on Amalfi Coast And How to Avoid Them

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on May 19, 2024

Categories Uncategorized

So you’re planning to visit Amalfi. Here are the top tourist faux pas on Amalfi and how to avoid them for a fun and beautiful trip to the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi is an iconic Italian destination that draws visitors from around the globe, all eager to soak in its celebrated views and vibrant culture. However, the Amalfi Coast’s beauty and popularity come with challenges that can perplex even the most seasoned travelers. From navigating the winding coastal roads to choosing the perfect dining place, knowing what to avoid can significantly enhance your experience. In this guide, we delve into the common tourist mistakes to help you navigate the Amalfi Coast like a local, ensuring your visit is as breathtaking as the landscapes.

📌 Additional Reads: – 7 Best Places to Visit in Italy with kids – 8 Tourist Mistakes in Italy and How You Can Avoid Them – We review our trusted insurance in Europe

Table of Contents

Mistake #1: Traveling by Car During Peak Season – Top Tourist Faux Pas on Amalfi

What You Should Know:  Driving along the narrow, winding roads of the Amalfi Coast can be daunting, especially during the peak tourist months of June through August. Traffic congestion is expected, parking is scarce and often expensive, and the stress of navigating the crowded roads can detract from the region’s scenic beauty.

How to Avoid It:  Utilize public transportation options such as SITA buses that connect major towns along the coast or ferries that offer pleasant rides between towns like Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento, providing a different vantage point of the stunning coastline. Another alternative is to hire private transfers or join guided tours that can handle the navigation for you. If visiting during the shoulder seasons, you’ll find reduced traffic, making driving a more viable option if you prefer the freedom of exploring at your own pace.

Mistake #2: Overlooking Smaller Villages

What You Should Know:  While the famous towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are stunning, they can also be crowded and pricey. Many travelers need to experience the authentic charm found in smaller villages along the coast, which offer quieter, more intimate experiences.

How to Avoid It:  Consider accommodations or visits to lesser-known yet equally enchanting villages such as Minori, Atrani, and Praiano. These towns offer a more relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and delightful local restaurants. Exploring these areas not only supports a more sustainable tourism model by reducing pressure on the most popular spots but also provides a glimpse into the everyday life of residents.

Mistake #3: Misunderstanding Transportation Options

What You Should Know:  The Amalfi Coast’s rugged terrain and limited roadways mean that relying exclusively on cars can be limiting and often frustrating for the above reasons.

How to Avoid It:  Beyond just avoiding peak-season driving, consider renting scooters or using local taxi services for short trips where public buses aren’t convenient. Scooters can be a fun and flexible way to navigate narrow roads without the bulk of a car. Always wear a helmet and be cautious of the road conditions and local driving customs.

Mistake #4: Missing Out on Local Cuisine by Dining at Tourist Traps

What You Should Know:  Restaurants in prime locations with panoramic views often have inflated prices and dishes that cater more to the international palate than authentic local cuisine.

How to Avoid It:  Dive into the local culinary scene by seeking out eateries favored by locals and asking for regional specialties. Off the main tourist path, restaurants are more likely to offer fresh, authentic meals at better prices. Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel or local hosts for recommendations; they often know the best spots for traditional dishes like Spaghetti alle Vongole or fresh local seafood.

Dining on the Amalfi Coast

While the Amalfi Coast is known for its stunning views and tourist-friendly attractions, finding authentic places to eat where the locals go can make your culinary experience even more memorable. Here are several eateries beloved by residents, offering traditional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients that capture the authentic flavor of the region:

1. Trattoria Da Ciccio (Amalfi)

• Specialty : Known for its seafood dishes, this family-run trattoria is a local favorite for its fresh catches and traditional recipes.
• Must-Try Dish : “Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare” (seafood pasta), a hearty dish featuring locally made pasta tossed with the day’s freshest seafood.

2. La Taverna dei Briganti (Praiano)

• Specialty : Nestled away from the main tourist paths, this tavern offers a rustic setting and a classic Campanian cuisine menu.
• Must-Try Dish : “Pollo al Limone” (lemon chicken), which showcases the famous Amalfi lemons in a savory, refreshing dish that’s perfectly balanced.

3. Ristorante Marina Grande (Amalfi)

• Specialty : Located on the beach, this restaurant offers a stunning setting and serves some of the best traditional Italian and Mediterranean dishes on the coast.
• Must-Try Dish : “Risotto alla Pescatora,” a flavorful seafood risotto that epitomizes the essence of coastal Italian cooking with its rich taste and fresh ingredients.

4. Il Ritrovo (Positano)

• Specialty : This hilltop restaurant is slightly off the beaten track, offering spectacular views and a menu that features local, seasonal ingredients.
• Must-Try Dish : “Melanzane alla Parmigiana” (eggplant parmesan), a comforting dish that is a staple in the local cuisine, made with locally grown eggplants.

5. La Strada (Ravello)

• Specialty : Offering panoramic coastline views, La Strada serves traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, focusing on high-quality local produce.
• Must-Try Dish : “Gnocchi alla Sorrentina,” gnocchi served in a simple yet profoundly flavorful tomato and mozzarella sauce.

6. Pizzeria Donna Stella (Amalfi)

• Specialty : This pizzeria makes it in a traditional wood-fired oven for those craving a slice of authentic Italian pizza, giving it a deliciously crispy crust.
• A must-try dish  is “Pizza Napoletana,” made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.

By dining at these local favorites, you’ll avoid the tourist traps and enjoy a more authentic taste of the Amalfi Coast’s culinary delights. Each restaurant offers a unique atmosphere, from seaside views to quaint, hidden gems in the hills, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience beyond just food.

Mistake #5: Overlooking the Charm of Lesser-Known Towns

What You Should Know: While the renowned towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello capture most of the limelight, the Amalfi Coast is dotted with several smaller towns that offer unique charms without the throngs of tourists. These places often hold some of the most authentic cultural and culinary experiences.

How to Avoid It: Dedicate time to explore towns like Atrani, just a stone’s throw from Amalfi but with a fraction of the crowds. Atrani offers a picturesque central square, delightful cafes, and a more relaxed pace of life. Similarly, the hilltop town of Scala provides breathtaking views and a glimpse into rural Italian lifestyles away from the coastal hubbub. In these smaller towns, you can enjoy leisurely meals, local hospitality, and a sense of tranquility that larger cities can no longer guarantee during peak season.

Mistake #7: Skipping Local Wine and Produce

What You Should Know:  The Amalfi Coast, along with the broader Campania region, is renowned for its fertile volcanic soil, which produces distinctive flavors in both wine and produce. The area’s lemons, particularly the Sfusato Amalfitano, are celebrated for their unique sweet taste and are a vital ingredient in local cuisine and the famous Limoncello.

How to Avoid It:  Explore local agriturismos (farm stays) that offer a chance to experience the region’s agricultural heritage first-hand. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to use these local ingredients in traditional recipes. Wine enthusiasts should schedule visits to family-run vineyards in the hills behind the coast, such as Le Vigne di Raito or Tenuta San Francesco, where you can tour the vineyards and sample wines with local cheeses and cured meats. Many of these experiences require bookings, so plan to secure your visit.

Mistake #8: Underestimating the Sea

What You Should Know:  The waters around the Amalfi Coast are part of the Mediterranean, which can experience a range of sea conditions, from calm mornings to rough afternoons. Beachgoers and boaters sometimes need to prepare for these changes, which can impact safety and enjoyment.

How to Avoid It:  Always check the local marine weather forecast before planning a day on or near the water. Consider renting beach umbrellas and chairs at beaches with lifeguard services for added safety. For boating, whether renting a private boat or joining a tour, ensure the provider is reputable and check that all safety equipment is available on board. Ask local guides and hotel staff for the safest spots for swimming or water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

Mistake #9: Being Unprepared for the Terrain

What You Should Know:  The vertical layout of many towns on the Amalfi Coast means lots of climbing—stairs are a common feature, and the steep inclines can be a challenge for those unaccustomed to such terrain.

How to Avoid It:  Prepare physically for your trip if you plan to explore extensively on foot. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must. If mobility concerns, consider staying in towns known for easier access and flatter streets, such as Amalfi or the less steep parts of Ravello. Some hotels and rental properties also offer shuttle services to higher or more remote areas, so inquire about these options when booking your stay.

Mistake #10: Missing Seasonal and Cultural Events

What You Should Know:  The Amalfi Coast has cultural and seasonal events throughout the year, offering deep insights into the region’s traditions and vibrant community life. Missing these can mean missing out on some of the most authentic and enriching experiences.

How to Avoid It:  Before your trip, research the cultural calendar for the time of your visit. Festivals like the Amalfi Musical Opera, Ravello Festival, and the colorful Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics in Amalfi provide unique entertainment and cultural insights. For food lovers, the Lemon Festival in Minori is a delightful celebration of the region’s famed citrus. Book tickets or make arrangements for special events as early as possible, as they can be popular with locals and tourists.

Our Final Thoughts and Conclusion on Top Tourists Faux Pas on Amalfi

Exploring the Amalfi Coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and culinary excellence. By sidestepping common pitfalls, you can uncover the true essence of this spectacular region. Remember, the key to a memorable visit lies in preparation and flexibility. Plan for logistics like transportation and accommodation, but leave room for spontaneous adventures that let you discover the coast’s hidden corners and local flavors.

Embrace the slower pace of life, engage with the warm local community, and let every scenic moment along this stunning coastline captivate your heart. The Amalfi Coast isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that will linger in your memories long after you return home. Safe travels, and enjoy your journey along one of Italy’s most treasured landscapes!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Hawaii tourist dies on Maui beach, and wife alleges state failed to warn her about snorkeling danger

A Michigan woman claims her husband's death could have been prevented by an awareness campaign about a little-known snorkeling danger, according to her lawsuit against the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Hawaii Visitors Convention Bureau.

Officially, 64-year-old Ray Johnson's cause of death in February 2022 was ruled drowning, the leading cause of death for tourists in Hawaii, by a coroner, according to Patti Johnson's lawsuit.

But her attorney, Jay Stuemke, told Fox News Digital the experienced snorkeler's last moments did not resemble a traditional drowning at all. 

"He told a friend, ‘I’m having trouble breathing,' and they tried to bring him in," Stuemke said Wednesday. "A friend helped him to shore, but he died on the beach [in Maui.]" 

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Rather than aspirating water, Stuemke said Johnson likely died of Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema, or ROPE, sometimes known as "drowning from the inside." When Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema comes on, the swimmer's lungs fill with bodily fluids, reducing the organs' ability to deliver oxygen and leading to hypoxia. 

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Sufferers panic, become weak and often fall unconscious. The sudden onset of the condition can be so intense that snorkelers are unable to signal for help, and death can occur in just minutes, according to an editorial in the Honolulu Star Advertiser by pulmonologist Dr. Phillip R. Foti. 

"It didn't make sense when I received the autopsy report that just said … drowning," Patti Johnson, Ray's wife, told ABC 7. "And I was like, I was watching him come in. When you're drowning, I don't think you're making your way in. I don't think you're talking to the people you're with."

A number of risk factors can contribute to ROPE deaths, among them the physiological effects of recent air travel, according to a study by the state Department of Health's Snorkel Safety Sub-Committee.

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"Hypoxia induced by Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (ROPE) is the cause of some, probably most, snorkel related fatal and near fatal drownings," the study's authors wrote in their interim report, which is cited in Johnson's lawsuit.

Stuemke said waiting three days after disembarking from their plane before donning a snorkel can greatly reduce the risk of "preventable death." 

Generally, tourists fly at least five hours to get to Hawaii, according to the study, and given that airplanes are pressurized at an equivalent of up to 8,500 feet elevation, "the permeability of the lung's membranes may be affected in a way that predisposes toward the development of ROPE."

"Ray should've been told that he was at particular risk of this for a variety of reasons, including the fact that he'd just flown in," Stuemke said. "They were going to be in there for two weeks. His wife has told me if they knew about this safety study and what it said, they would just hang out by the pool and drink Mai Tais for a couple days.

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"Most people don't just come in for a weekend to snorkel. They come for a period of time and have a number of things they want to do," Steumke said. "If they're told they should wait, they will."

But according to Johnson's lawsuit, Hawaii's tourism authority and other groups have done little to forewarn tourists "despite having knowledge of the risks and ready-to-use warnings at hand from this industry-funded study." 

"The [tourism authority hasn't] shared those warnings. They aren't prominently featured on any website or featured in any brochures or videos or anything," Stuemke said.

Between 2012 and 2021, 184 tourists died in snorkeling accidents compared to just 20 local residents.

"It's impossible on autopsy to determine if someone died by a traditional drowning or this sudden onset pulmonary edema," Stuemke said. "Either way there's fluid in your lungs and a lack of oxygen."

Two factors make ROPE deaths more common for snorkelers than those participating in other water activities, according to the 2017 study — the swimmer's prone position in the water and the narrow tube of their snorkels, which creates resistance to inhalation. 

Dr. Foti wrote in his findings that "[g]enerally, the simpler the snorkel the less resistance it generated."

However, "other factors, sometimes not visible, such as the size at the narrowest opening or the design of the valves, made visual determination of resistance unreliable."

The Hawaii House of Representatives attempted to pass a bill that would require first responders to record data on the types of snorkels used by tourists who drowned during the activity. But the bill was never passed, according to the Hawaii State Legislature website. 

The type of mask and snorkel used were only recorded in 16% of snorkeling-related deaths, Foti wrote. 

While a full face mask was used in five of these cases and a traditional two-piece mask was used in eleven, the 2017 study noted that full face masks can't be removed in urgent situations, and users can't "spit" their snorkel out to improve their breathing.

Stuemke said Patti had begun to print small cards with details about ROPE. In doing so, she "has been, in a very real way, doing more to try to educate about this than what the state of Hawaii and the tourism industry have done."

"Any time she hears someone is going on a snorkeling trip, she gives someone one of these cards and says, 'Please, don't let what happened to Ray happen to you. Wait awhile and follow these other tips,'" Stuemke said. 

The Hawaii Tourism Authority, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui and Accor Management did not respond to a request for comment on the pending lawsuit. 

Prospective snorkelers can learn more about ROPE at www.snorkelsafetystudy.org. 

Original article source: Hawaii tourist dies on Maui beach, and wife alleges state failed to warn her about snorkeling danger

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Gunman Kills Three Spanish Tourists in Central Afghanistan

One Afghan was also injured in the attack, which many expect will hinder the government’s recent efforts to lure foreign visitors.

By Yaqoob Akbary and Christina Goldbaum

Yaqoob Akbary reported from Kabul, Afghanistan, and Christina Goldbaum from London.

Three Spanish tourists and one Afghan were killed by a gunman in central Afghanistan on Friday, Taliban officials said, in the first fatal attack on tourists in the country since the Taliban seized power in 2021.

Four other foreigners and three Afghans were also injured in the shooting in Bamiyan Province, a serene stretch of valleys, lakes and ancient relics northwest of the capital, Kabul.

The shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m., when at least one gunman opened fire on the group of tourists as they left a bazaar in the capital of the province, eyewitnesses said. Safiullah Rayed, the director of information for Bamiyan Province, said the dead were Spanish nationals.

Four people have been arrested in connection with the attack, officials said. No group has claimed responsibility.

The government “strongly condemns this accident, expresses its deep feelings to the families of the victims and assures that all the criminals will be found and punished,” Abdul Mateen Qani, the spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said on X .

The attack comes as Taliban authorities have tried to lure foreign tourists to Afghanistan in the hopes of bolstering the country’s economy and revamping the government’s image on the international stage. Western officials have slammed the Taliban’s restrictions on women and, nearly three years since the Taliban seized power, no country officially recognizes its government.

Last month, Taliban officials opened a government-supported tourism and hospitality institute to build up the country’s tourism infrastructure. They have also tried to assure tourism agencies that the country is safe for foreigners, despite the persistent threat from the Islamic State affiliate in the region, which has carried out sporadic attacks in Afghanistan in recent years and sought to destabilize the government.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Afghanistan was part of the overland so-called “Hippy Trail” across Asia. Foreigners were drawn to the country’s rich natural landscapes, centuries-old mosques and ancient relics. Bamiyan, where the shooting on Friday took place, is home to the remnants of 1,500-year-old giant Buddhas that were carved into the side of a cliff and that the Taliban mostly destroyed in 2001 under their first government. The province also boasts the country’s first national park, Band-e-Amir, a sprawling swath of rugged mountains and deep blue lakes.

Tourism in Afghanistan dwindled after the Soviet invasion in 1979 and the violent decades that followed. But after the U.S.-led war ended in 2021 and relative calm returned to the country, so too did some foreign tourists.

In 2021, nearly 700 foreign tourists visited the country, according to the Taliban’s Tourism Directorate in Kabul. That figure rose to around 2,300 in 2022 and reached around 7,000 last year.

The fatal attack on Friday will likely be a setback to the government’s tourism efforts. “This incident may scare other tourists who want to come to Afghanistan,” said Mohammad Saeed, the head of the Tourism Directorate in Kabul.

Christina Goldbaum is the Afghanistan and Pakistan bureau chief for The Times, leading the coverage of the region. More about Christina Goldbaum

The Blue Economy: Challenges and Solutions in Sustainable Coastal Tourism Development

• Staff Writer
• April 2, 2019

In terms of magnitude, tourism is one of the largest sectors in the world. Overall, tourism and travel account for nearly 10 percent of global GDP. Likewise, annual revenues have been estimated at $7.6 trillion. While these figures are astounding, it is also noteworthy that 80 percent of tourism occurs along coastal towns and areas. Beaches, coral reefs and an array of aquatic activities attract millions each year. Thus, the bottom line is that coastal tourism plays a significant role in the future of the Blue Economy .

Nearly 300 million jobs rely on coastal tourism. In addition, coastal tourism is vital to the survival of small developing island nations around the globe.

But as tourism advances, the risks that coastal tourism impose are sizable. With these concerns increasing, many are strongly advocating for more sustainable tourism development.

Coastal Tourism and the Challenges Ahead in the Blue Economy

With such volumes of travel and coastal tourism, a number of problems face island communities. Some of these problems have been self-inflicted while others have been spin-offs. But either way, all point to the need for sustainable tourism development in these regions. Shoreline developments to date have already cleared precious coral reefs and mangroves to expand sandy beach areas. Likewise, piers and other coastal tourism structures have also negatively impacted these environments. And on-shore developments involving other structures have affected native habitats. Those involving the current dismal state of sea turtles are a notable example of poor sustainable tourism development.

Others are not as apparent when it comes to the negative impacts of coastal tourism. For example, wastewater produced by hotels and resorts poses additional challenges. Plastic bottles and other trash are also concerns resulting from increasing coastal tourism numbers. Other issues in coastal tourism also threaten to worsen climate change. Cruise ship pollution, as well as emissions from recreational water activities, are examples of these problems. Unless these issues are addressed through sustainable tourism development, a variety of negative impacts will sporadically emerge. These will likely include repercussions to the environment, marine life, as well as the economic well-being of many coastal areas.

Proactive “Blue” Approaches to Sustainable Tourism Development

While a number of blue initiatives and forums are proposing action, some island nations are being proactive. Because of their economic reliance on coastal tourism, it only makes sense to promote sustainable tourism development. For example, the Republic of Palau require all tourists to sign the Palau Pledge before arriving in the islands. This move raises awareness of the potential harms coastal tourism brings, as well as the best practices that can be observed by tourist during their visit to islands.

While Palau has taken this approach, the islands of Seychelles have embraced a more comprehensive plan for sustainable tourism development. The objective is to balance economic development with both cultural and environmental conservation and protection. In essence, Seychelles’ plan for sustainable tourism development involves five major areas.

• Sustainable Marine Spatial Planning – This area addresses new developments involving coastal tourism structures through formal sustainable tourism development planning.
• Innovative “Blue” Bonds – This part is offered as a means to finance management, rehabilitation and restoration efforts of marine and coastal areas.
• Scheduled Periodic Audits – This area is set up to establish monitoring activities and evaluation reports on a consistent and regular basis to guide sustainability efforts.
• Sustainable Tourism Development Certifications – With this area, resorts and other coastal tourism businesses would be listed as compliant with sustainability requirements.
• Debt-For-Nature Conservation – This part covers large loans acquired currently to invest in sustainable tourism development and other sustainability activities.

A Good Start with Much More Required

The efforts made by Seychelles and Palau are important steps in the right direction for sustainable tourism development.   At a global scale, one out of every 11 jobs is in the tourism industry.

Therefore, coastal tourism represents a significant economic area for many nations. However, undermining the climate, the environment and marine life in the process will quickly deplete these resources. Similarly, it will place many developing countries in economic distress as coastal tourism quality fades. For these reasons, a global effort is needed to promote genuinely sustainable tourism development.

For more on Bold Business’ series on the Blue Economy, check out these stories on  Deep Seabed Mining ,  Water Desalination and Aquaculture Systems , and Aquaculture Sustainability in Meeting Global Demand for Food .

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