‘Go Here Instead: The Alternative Travel List’ Book Review
Overtourism is when too many visitors negatively impact local residents and other tourists. This often leads to environmental damage as well. Locals often struggle to live in their own cities. Instagram, Tik-Tok and AirBnb have contributed to a magnifying effect. In Croatia, Game of Thrones has forever changed the country.
I was stunned when I visited Rome in 2022. The experience is no-good for anyone. Italy is a treasure of other towns and small hamlets, so why did I do this to myself? Our time was brief in Rome, and very uncomfortable – the quality of our time was greatly diminished by the crowds. For the next five years, we will not be traveling to the following destinations:
- Rome
- Venice
- Croatia
- Amsterdam
- Santorini
- Iceland
- Hawaii
So, where should you go instead?
The book “Go Here Instead: The Alternative Travel List” is a great start. Instead of Rome, visit Bologna. Skip Paris and head to Provence. Ditch Machu Picchu and head to Pisac. The book is less than $20 and provides different perspectives from architecture to the arts. This is now a book I own, it is not just practical but a conversation starter. It belongs on your coffee table.
If all my advice has fallen on deaf ears, if you are unwilling to change your destination, at least consider visiting off-peak.
