Avoid the White Lotus effect: Thailand travel without the tourists
Briefly

Following the success of The White Lotus, both its previous Sicilian setting and the new season in Thailand show how media can drive tourist behavior. Locals express concern over the impact of the tourism surge on Thailand's Koh Samui ahead of the expected influx. With historical issues of overtourism, environmentalists warn that the popularity of such shows exacerbates existing challenges. There are alternative, less crowded destinations like Koh Phayam that offer a more authentic experience without battling for space on the beach, but they demand effort to reach.
The impact of The White Lotus on tourism underscores a growing trend where popular media can heavily influence travel destinations, raising concerns about overtourism and environmental sustainability.
Thailand, having already experienced the repercussions of mass tourism, faces new challenges as The White Lotus attracts hundreds of thousands to its scenic Koh Samui, further straining local resources.
Read at www.theguardian.com
[
|
]