We visited one of Italy’s popular tourist destinations, but after spending just one night on the island, I won’t be going back.
Sicily is quickly becoming a hot spot for UK holidaymakers, with direct flights and balmy weather lasting well into October, not to mention its array of stunning beaches.
Yet, our trip to Sicily’s tourist hub, Palermo, completely transformed our perception of this enchanting island and its amiable inhabitants.
Strolling through the sun-kissed streets of Palermo, I was struck by the city’s vibrant atmosphere and the splendour of its ancient edifices. Having been to many of Sicily’s famed spots like Taormina, Catania, and the Aeolian Islands, Palermo stood out with its distinct vibe, reports the Express.
This lively Mediterranean centre thrummed with animated markets, distinctive architecture, and cuisine that tells the tale of its diverse conquerors Greeks, Romans, Arabs.
But as we delved into the streets of this historic metropolis, my husband and I couldn’t overlook the graffiti from activist groups, scrawled everywhere from decaying alleys to tourist signs.
“Tourist go home,” one stark message declared. Another, sprawled across a city map, poignantly asked in English, “Where am I? What did we grow up on? Where did all the others go? And why did I decide to return?”
Like many other European hotspots, Palermo now seems to be grappling with the threat of overtourism, and its locals are pushing back against the throngs of visitors that flood its streets annually.
Sicily has particularly suffered a severe drought this summer, with tourists reportedly exacerbating the issue. There have been instances of hotels having to turn away holidaymakers due to water shortages.
Palermo isn’t the only city taking a stand against escalating tourist numbers. Hunger strikes have been staged by protesters in Tenerife, while Barcelona locals have taken to dousing tourists with water pistols.
In addition, bold graffiti messages have been seen in major tourist centres across Europe, and anti-tourism protests have taken place in Greece, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands, and most notably Spain.
For most of these destinations, locals are resisting the surge in visitor numbers which is straining health services, waste management, water supplies and housing, all at the expense of residents.
Moreover, while numerous places have become overly tourist-friendly, complete with English-speaking locals, Irish pubs and eateries serving full English breakfasts, Palermo remains a truly authentic city: it’s no surprise it wishes to stay that way.
Seeing anti-tourist signs not only made us feel unwelcome and slightly uneasy, but it also made me reconsider the impact my holiday has on those who call it home.
I don’t want to be just another tourist, chasing sun, sand and Aperol Spritz without considering the impact on local resources like water.
Despite Palermo’s undeniable charm, with its bustling streets, warm climate and stunning beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea, I’ll think twice before returning during the peak season.
Given the growing backlash against tourism in many popular destinations, it’s made me rethink my role as a traveller. Maybe it’s time to explore lesser-known spots.
