WTTC CEO proposes communication with the local community to combat tourismphobia

17-07-24

Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), has expressed the importance of listening to and respecting the voices of local communities affected by mass tourism. In an interview with the newspaper Última Hora, Simpson has spoken out about recent anti-tourism demonstrations in the Balearic Islands and elsewhere in Spain, emphasizing the need for open dialogue with residents.

Simpson stressed that “it is very important that the community has a voice and that it is heard”. The WTTC executive stressed that working hand in hand with local communities is essential to understand their concerns and the impact of tourism on their daily lives. While acknowledging the complaints about mass tourism, Simpson also recalled the significant value that this sector brings, citing as an example the old town of Palma, which has been revitalized thanks to tourism revenues.

In the interview, Simpson mentioned several measures being considered to manage tourism more sustainably in the Balearics. Among these strategies is the extension of the high season, taking advantage of the good weather that prevails for much of the year. Another proposed measure is to increase the category of hotels to attract higher quality, lower quantity tourism.

Simpson also suggested reducing the size of tour groups, a practice already implemented in cities such as Valencia and Venice. He also proposed limiting the number of cruise passengers disembarking simultaneously, in coordination with the cruise lines, a measure similar to that adopted in Dubrovnik. The implementation of a reservation system, like the one used in the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, was another of the WTTC president's recommendations.

Looking to the future, Simpson forecasts significant growth for the tourism sector worldwide. According to her estimates, tourism will be worth more than eleven trillion dollars and will generate employment for 348 million people, surpassing the total population of the United States. These figures reflect the enormous economic potential of tourism and the importance of managing it in a way that benefits both local communities and visitors.

Julia Simpson's words highlight the need for a balance between tourism development and community sustainability. At a time when tourismphobia has become a growing concern in many regions, open dialogue and cooperation with local communities are presented as fundamental tools to address the challenges associated with mass tourism.

Simpson's proposed approach seeks not only to mitigate the negative impacts of tourism, but also to harness its benefits to improve infrastructure and the local economy. With a strategy focused on sustainability and respect for local communities, WTTC positions itself at the forefront of responsible tourism management, providing a model for other regions to follow.

In short, Julia Simpson's vision for the future of tourism involves a clear commitment to sustainability, community involvement and balanced economic growth. These strategies not only promise better tourism management in the Balearic Islands and other affected regions, but can also serve as a guide for tourism destinations around the world facing similar challenges.