7 in 10 Canadians rethink destinations due to overtourism: survey

Canadians are paying attention.

A recent survey by Flight Centre, conducted through YouGov, reveals that 71 per cent of Canadian travellers are worried about the effects of overtourism.

With recent headlines highlighting mass tourism protests across Europe in June—and demonstrations in the Canary Islands in May, where residents demanded stricter regulations, improved infrastructure, and better safeguards for local communities—many Canadians are taking these concerns seriously.

“Canadians are curious by nature, but they’re also conscientious,” said Nate Mosher, a travel expert at Flight Centre Canada, in a press release. “They want to see the world without overwhelming it, and that often means taking the road less travelled.”

YouGov’s survey took place between January 10-20 and involved 1,109 respondents from Canada.  

According to the research, 78 per cent of Canadians say that many travel attractions are too busy to fully enjoy while 81 per cent would swap a popular destination for a similar spot that’s less crowded

On tourist fees, 57 per cent would be willing to pay a destination fee to support sustainable tourism efforts

And in regards to anti-tourism protests, 53 per cent agree that local anti-tourism protesters in heavily visited areas are right to believe that tourists should stop or reduce their travel there.

Overwhelmingly, Canadians want the space to enjoy travel without the negative impacts of overtourism: crowding, high prices, environmental damage, noise and an overall less pleasurable experience for locals and tourists alike.

Flight Centre says there are several practices that improve travel for everyone, including visiting hidden gems in less-touristed towns and cities, travelling during off-peak season, and supporting small, local businesses.

“Responsible tourism doesn’t mean compromising on experiences,” stated Mosher. “It means discovering unique places like Montenegro instead of Croatia or Sevilla instead of Barcelona, and doing it at the right time of year. You still get incredible memories, but with fewer crowds and more connection to the place you are visiting. And those small choices help make those destinations stay special for the people who live there—and for the travellers who will visit next.”

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