From Venice to Barcelona and beyond, these hotspots are grappling with the negative consequences of over-tourism, including environmental degradation, disruption of local life, and cultural dilution. This piece explores the measures various cities are taking to mitigate these effects, from restricting visitor numbers to implementing fees, aiming to balance tourism with sustainability and quality of life for residents.
Similar to the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Garisenda Tower in Bologna, Italy, is experiencing an increasing tilt. In response, Italy is employing state-of-the-art technologies and engineering solutions to stabilize and preserve this lesser-known but historically significant structure. Advanced methods like laser scanning and computer modeling are being utilized to monitor the tower’s condition and inform ongoing preservation efforts, ensuring its safety and integrity for future generations.
After 144 years of construction, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is nearing completion. This architectural marvel, conceived by Antoni Gaudi, has become a symbol of Barcelona’s creative spirit. Despite Gaudi’s death in 1926, his visionary design continues to guide the ongoing work. This landmark has evolved from its groundbreaking in 1882 into one of the city’s most visited attractions, blending artistic design with spiritual symbolism.
Scheduled to reopen in 2025, the Bronx Hip Hop Museum in New York is dedicated to the history and impact of hip hop. Located near the genre’s birthplace, the museum aims to educate and inspire future generations. It is a collaborative effort involving founders like Rocky Bucano and artists including Kurtis Blow and LL Cool J, emphasizing hip hop’s deep roots in Bronx culture.
In August 2024, Railbookers will launch an unprecedented 80-day luxury train journey across four continents, utilizing eight of the world’s most iconic trains. Starting in Vancouver and priced at $113,599 per person, this trip offers an exclusive exploration of diverse landscapes and cultures, with stops in major cities for excursions and overnight stays.
In 2023, the world faced its hottest year on record since 1880, with projections indicating that temperatures will continue to rise. This escalating crisis was underscored at the February UNFCCC meeting in Dubai, where experts emphasized the urgent need to halve global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 to avert catastrophic climate outcomes.
Eating organic is often seen as a luxury due to its higher price tag, often detering budget-conscious consumers. But it doesn’t have to. With a few smart strategies, even those on a tight budget can incorporate organic foods into their diet.