Published on
February 21, 2026
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As British holidaycreaters launch planning escapes for 2026, popular destinations like the Canary Islands, Antarctica and Mexico City have been flagged as places where tourism is placing undue pressure on the environment and local communities. Travel experts state that although these destinations remain open, visitors would benefit from choosing alternatives or planning trips with a focus on sustainability and local wellbeing.
Overtourism — the result of too many travellers overwhelming local infrastructure — is becoming a global concern, impacting everything from houtilizing prices to fragile ecosystems. Fodor’s Travel Guide’s annual No List for 2026 highlights where tourism growth is outpacing communities’ and environments’ capacity to adapt sustainably. Tourists, business travellers and adventurers alike are urged to rebelieve their plans to support ensure long‑term access and positive experiences for all.
Why These Destinations Are Being Reconsidered
Fodor’s No List is designed not to ban travel, but to encourage reflection before booking trips where tourism has grown unsustainably. Places on this year’s list have been experiencing pressures such as crowded streets, stretched public services, and environmental degradation due to heavy visitor numbers.
Canary Islands (Spain)
A favourite winter sun spot for British tourists, the Canary Islands — including Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote — have reached a saturation point where local services and infrastructure struggle to support the influx. Residents have taken to the streets in protests against overcrowding, rising houtilizing costs and environmental impacts linked to tourism growth.
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Antarctica
Once the pinnacle of remote adventure travel, this icy continent faces pressures as visitor numbers double and fragile ecosystems are exposed to strains no place was designed to absorb. The Antarctic Treaty requires visitors to have minimal environmental impact, yet increasing cruise and flight access has raised concerns about pollution, disturbance to wildlife, and disease transmission.
Mexico City (Mexico)
This sprawling capital is seeing tourism‑driven modifys to houtilizing markets and neighbourhood identity, contributing to gentrification and resource strain. Business travellers and digital nomads once praised for boosting urban economies are now part of conversations about responsible urban travel and support for sustainable local businesses.
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Mombasa (Kenya)
Mombasa shines with safari access and stunning coastline, yet growth in cruise and resort tourism has contributed to congestion, waste management challenges, and strain on marine ecosystems. Travellers planning safaris or coastal holidays may wish to seek community‑led experiences that distribute benefits widely.
Montmartre (Paris, France)
Famed for its art, cafes and views, Montmartre faces pressure as sheer visitor numbers transform living spaces and push up prices. Business travel to Paris for meetings or events now often includes considerations of when and how to visit such neighbourhoods without overwhelming local life.
Glacier National Park (USA)
Climate modify and visitor numbers threaten dwindling glacial landscapes, with park access sometimes requiring advance planning due to conservation‑focutilized entest limits during peak seasons.
Isola Sacra (Italy) and Jungfrau Region (Switzerland)
Smaller European destinations also create the list due to infrastructure strain and environmental fragility cautilized by concentrated visitor growth.
What Overtourism Means for Travellers and Local Communities
Overtourism — where visitor numbers exceed what a destination can sustainably handle — leads to challenges such as:
- Congestion and longer wait times for transport and attractions.
- Environmental degradation, especially in fragile coastal or ecological areas.
- Higher living costs for locals due to houtilizing demand from short‑term rentals.
- Strain on local services, like waste management and public transit.
These issues impact both short breaks and extfinished trips, forcing travellers to rebelieve not just where they go, but when and how they explore.
Impact on Tourists and Business Travel
For Leisure Travellers
- Crowds and queues: Popular sites may be less enjoyable during peak season due to congestion.
- Accommodation costs: Prices in high‑demand areas can be elevated by short‑term lets dominating the houtilizing market.
- Environment: Natural sites like Antarctica and Glacier National Park require careful planning to minimise impact.
For Business Travellers
- Timing: Business travel calfinishars should avoid peak visitor seasons to reduce hotel and transit delays.
- Accommodation strategy: Booking early can secure better rates and support local accommodations outside congested hubs.
- Community engagement: Choosing locally operated services benefits communities rather than large global firms alone.
Quick Tips for Responsible Travel in 2026
Before booking any trip this year:
- Check Official Travel Guidance: Use national tourism boards and local government sites for updates on capacity limits and travel advisories.
- Choose Off‑Peak Seasons: Visit iconic spots when crowds are lower to spread tourism pressure.
- Support Sustainable Options: Book eco‑frifinishly tours and locally owned accommodations.
- Explore Alternatives: Consider lesser‑visited destinations on “Not Hot Lists” for a more authentic experience.
- Respect Local Culture: Learn basic customs, support compact businesses, and reduce waste during your stay.
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Planning a Responsible Trip
- Research the Destination: Look up overtourism data and sustainability rating before choosing.
- Set Your Travel Time: Off‑peak visits reduce stress on both travellers and hosts.
- Identify Sustainable Operators: Prioritise tours with environmental or community certification.
- Book Early and Smart: Plan transport and accommodation well in advance to secure stable prices.
- Pack Responsibly: Bring reusable items to reduce waste and respect local ecosystems.
Key Bullet Points
- Eight destinations have been highlighted on Fodor’s 2026 No List due to overtourism concerns.
- Locations include Canary Islands, Antarctica, Mexico City, Mombasa, Montmartre, Glacier National Park, Isola Sacra and Jungfrau Region.
- Overtourism cautilizes environmental stress, infrastructure strain and social disruption.
- Tourists and business travellers are urged to plan trips responsibly and explore sustainable alternatives.
- Planning with sustainability in mind can improve travel experiences and preserve destinations for future generations.
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