Overtourism is pushing destinations like Rome and Paris to rethink crowd control, while STR operators worldwide are pushing back against rising restrictions. From legal wins in Portugal to grassroots action in Missouri, discover how hosts are shaping the future of regulation and tourism.
We’re diving into two critical conversations: how destinations are battling overtourism, and how STR hosts are successfully pushing back against rising restrictions.
From Rome to Paris, the impact of overtourism is becoming impossible to ignore. Italian authorities recently fined CoopCulture and major platforms like GetYourGuide and Tiqets for hoarding Colosseum tickets, essentially blocking the public from fair access. Over in France, Louvre employees walked out in protest as visitor numbers overwhelmed the museum, making both their jobs and the guest experience unsustainable.
In response, destinations are scrambling for solutions:
Dynamic pricing to control peak demand
Real-time ticketing systems to prevent scalping
Promoting off-peak travel and lesser-known sites to distribute tourists more evenly
Industry leaders agree on one thing: collaboration between governments, operators, and platforms is essential. Without bold action, the world’s most famous destinations risk degrading not just their cultural treasures, but also the very experience travellers are coming for.
While cities battle overtourism, STR hosts worldwide are facing a different fight: the rise of restrictive regulations. But from Portugal to the U.S. to the U.K., operators are proving that advocacy works.
In Portugal, host association ALEP pushed back on aggressive licensing crackdowns by launching public awareness campaigns, engaging with media, and highlighting how STRs support local economies.
In Missouri, sudden tax hikes threatened hosts after STRs were reclassified as commercial properties. Hosts quickly formed MOVHA, a grassroots alliance that’s now directly influencing future legislation.
In the UK, the pandemic shifted public perception. Hosts who provided emergency accommodations for NHS staff and essential workers used that goodwill to build productive relationships with regulators.
The key lesson? Don’t wait for rules to be written without you. Even small-scale hosts can drive meaningful change by:
Joining local or national STR associations
Sharing real data and personal stories with policymakers
Framing STRs as part of the solution—not the problem
Stay Proactive: Regulation is coming whether you’re ready or not. Get involved before decisions are made.
Collaborate Locally: Build coalitions with other hosts, small businesses, and local tourism groups.
Educate Policymakers: Use data to show your economic impact and the community benefits of STRs.
Diversify Guest Experiences: Just like overtourism solutions, STRs can promote off-peak stays, longer visits, and local experiences that benefit neighbourhoods—not just tourists.
The future of both tourism and short-term rentals depends on balance—between guest demand, local quality of life, and fair, reasonable regulation. Whether you’re hosting in a big city or a small village, your voice matters. Advocacy isn’t optional anymore—it’s part of running a successful STR business in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to elevate your direct booking game? Visit the Boostly website for the tools, strategies, and support you need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. And remember: Book Direct
