AN OVERVIEW OF OVERTOURISM: CAUSES AND IMPACTS

Overtourism is a major challenge in tourism today, which manifests itself in destinations exceeding their carrying capacity and leading to negative economic, environmental and socio-cultural consequences. This phenomenon is due to inadequate tourism management and global trends that promote cheaper travel, the popularity of short trips and seasonality. Overtourism results in the destruction of natural and cultural heritage, overcrowding, higher cost of living, commercialization of culture and dissatisfaction of locals and tourists. The aim of this article is to analyze the causes and consequences of overtourism. Special attention should be paid to the promotion of sustainable tourism, the control of tourist numbers and the management of resources to protect local communities and the natural environment. The paper seeks to provide recommendations for balanced tourism development that ensures the long-term sustainability of destinations while reducing the negative impacts on local communities and culture.