10 “Friendly” Cities Where Tourists Are Secretly Despised

Hospitality helps make a destination shine, but some places have a secret behind their smiles. These cities may look like they’re warm and inviting to tourists, but the locals don’t always like the steady stream of visitors. They may be annoyed because of overcrowded streets, rising costs of living, and a loss of local culture.

You can’t blame them, but you might want to avoid them. Here are a few cities where locals may be smiling on the outside, but rolling their eyes on the inside.

Venice, Italy

For the locals, the dream of a floating city like Venice is more of a nightmare. Once a serene and historic wonder, Venice is now struggling to survive beneath the waves of tourists who daily fill its narrow streets and canals. As locals flee the high cost of living due to the relentless crowds, the population has shrunk dramatically. You may think the locals are simply giving you a charming smile as you wander the maze-like streets, but they are probably wishing for some peace and quiet. If you were in their shoes, wouldn’t you?

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has a fantastic culture, beautiful architecture and of course, its Mediterranean beaches. Tourists have turned the city into a bustling hub of selfie sticks and overcrowded attractions, and for locals, the constant stream of visitors might be annoying.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

With Amsterdam’s picturesque canals and laid back atmosphere, it’s become a top destination for travelers looking for both beauty and adventure. But that influx of visitors may be too much for too many locals to take. The charm of Amsterdam has been fading for its residents as rowdy tourists treat the Red Light District like their personal playground. That friendly bartender? Probably served one too many tourists today.

Paris, France

The city of love, lights, and maybe a few irritated locals, ah Paris. Millions travel miles just thinking about Paris, but for Parisians, it’s too many tourists banging on the door. Parisians may not find the hordes of people swarming their favorite landmarks, particularly the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre appealing.

Kyoto, Japan

For centuries, Kyoto’s serene temples, tranquil gardens and other charms have also drawn in visitors hoping to savor the ancient beauty of Japan. The problem is that unfortunately, many locals may think tourists don’t necessarily respect local customs or peace and quiet. There may be a sense of frustration behind the polite bows and smiles you’ll see here, as residents may think their cultural sites are being overrun, and there are hardly quiet spaces for them to enjoy.

Reykjavik, Iceland

In recent years, Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes have made it a top travel destination, and the surge in tourism has not been easy on Reykjavik’s locals. The city has become one big tourist hub. Icelanders are famous for their hospitality, but they may also be sick of seeing their country’s natural beauty pillaged by tourists who don’t understand how to take care of it.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik has become a must visit for “Game of Thrones” fans, thanks to its starring role in the show. But the once peaceful coastal town has been unable to keep its charm as the weight of mass tourism has begun to take its toll. The over-tourism has flooded peaceful streets with visitors and parts of the city get so overrun that they’re almost unrecognizable to locals.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague has a right to be on many travelers’ must see lists due to its fairy tale charm and medieval architecture. But many locals would argue that the crowds of tourists have taken some of the city’s magic away. The Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square are often so crowded that you can’t enjoy them.

Lisbon, Portugal

In recent years, Lisbon has been a blessing and a curse for the tourism boom. The economy has indeed been boosted by increased tourist traffic, but rising rents and overtourism have made the local’s cherished neighbourhoods a thing of the past. Where once there were squares tranquil and scenic viewpoints, now according to Euronews.com, locals say there are tourists clogging the streets. Although the Portuguese are known for their warm hospitality, you would agree that their patience has limits.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii is no secret, but Honolulu life is no longer as idyllic as it once was for the locals. Tourism is important to the state’s economy, but many residents may be frustrated with the environmental damage and the soaring cost of living that accompanies it. The constant flow of tourists seems like an invasion of their home. I guess there’d be a longing for a little less company with the aloha spirit.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights

Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights

How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro

How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro

10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience

Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.

But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.

10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience