There’s A Revolt On In Greece And It Involves Beach Towels

Islanders in Greece are now protesting against the many impacts of over tourism on their local beaches Greece is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. Visiting a Greek island, taking photographs for Instagram, and eating and drinking in laid-back, sun-drizzled tavernas is on most travellers’ bucket lists at least once in their lifetime. Which means that much of Greece is overrun with tourists and locals are feeling the brunt of over tourism.

In what is being called the Beach Towel Revolt, Greek islanders are fighting for free access to their own beaches. Panos Kekas, a famous Greek film director, has also produced a short film about the privatisation of Greek beaches as part of his contribution to the movement.

Beyond privatisation, the locals are also being impacted by overtourism. There is such a spread of sun loungers and beach umbrellas that most locals are unable to find the space to unfold a towel, enjoy the sea views, and chill on their local beaches. Additionally, these sun loungers are being priced at extortionate rates. On Paros island, the third largest island in the Cyclades, for example, a sun lounger by the sea could be rented at a daily rate as high as Rs 10,000, rates that locals cannot afford, and which means that they are sometimes not allowed onto the beaches.

The 14,000 islanders on Paros island have begun a campaign to reclaim their beautiful beaches with a Facebook page for the Paros Citizens’ Movement for Free Beaches, in which they defend the right of both citizens and visitors to have free access to the beaches.

Images: Shutterstock

Also Read: These Travellers Want You To Go Solo!

France Is Welcoming Indian Students With A Five-Year Visa

Why Doha Should Be On Your Travel List – And In Your Shopping Bag

Love Mushrooms? You’ll Love This Festival

The Great Barrier Reef Is In Good Hands. Go Visit!

Now Transit In Egypt For 96 Hours For Free!

5 Distinctive Restaurants To Visit In Dubai

You Can Now Walk The Path Of Love Again

These Travellers Want You To Go Solo!

10 Cool Free Things To Do In Sydney, Australia

12 Ways To Embrace The Layover

12 Essential Items You Must Carry In Your Hand Baggage

Seven Cool Things To Do In Oman