“The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) just announced this week that worldwide international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) increased 6 percent to 1.4 billion in 2018, clearly above the 3.7% growth registered in the global economy.

The steady growth of international leisure travel and the soaring demand of tourists for the ultimate Instagram selfie location have led some localities to realize that they just can’t handle the crush, so they are taking steps to keep visitor numbers to a comfortable level. Following are some places that really wouldn’t mind if you just stayed home.”

And, number 8: (note, at least they added our BigSurPledge!)

“8. Big Sur. The overtourism problem isn’t limited to exotic foreign destinations. Closer to home, Big Sur and the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve are looking at ways to keep numbers to a manageable level. A few weeks ago, Big Sur residents gathered at the scenic Bixby Bridge to greet tourists who stopped for selfies with the bridge and/or the rugged coast in the background. Frustrated by increasing traffic and garbage in the area, the residents urged the visitors to behave respectfully and to be careful climbing around on the rocks. (One website named Bixby Bridge as the most Instagram-worthy destination for 2019.) Meanwhile, Point Lobos could soon become the first California state park to impose an advance reservation requirement on visitors during peak times. You can take the Big Sur pledge here..”

And some of you may have heard of, or are following the new IG account, Big Sur Hates You. (It had quickly evolved to be educational, rather than just shaming.)  It is making a difference, and I will cover that on Thursday.