Celeb-Inspired Oasis: How to Create a Tranquil Retreat at Home

Imagine a stunning European destination taking a step back from its tourism promotion efforts due to the overwhelming success of its own campaign. This summer, numerous popular vacation spots across Europe are feeling the strain of excessive tourist crowds, leading to protests, particularly in Greece and Spain, where locals are advocating for a decrease in visitor numbers and are voicing concerns over rising costs of food and accommodation.

Now, Norway joins the conversation by pausing its initiative aimed at attracting visitors to experience its breathtaking natural beauty and embrace its unique 'right to roam' laws, known as Allemannsretten. This concept is not just a legal framework but a cherished part of Nordic culture, allowing everyone the freedom to camp, swim, ski, and hike in the wild regardless of land ownership. Swedes and Norwegians relish this freedom, which sharply contrasts with the more restricted access to the countryside seen in the UK.

Innovation Norway, a state-owned enterprise, had set out to "highlight the part of Norwegian culture that is about using nature" through a campaign centered around outdoor activities, encouraging international visitors to take advantage of Allemannsretten. However, reports indicate that this initiative has been shelved due to worries that Norway's idyllic landscapes could become overcrowded and tarnished.

Stein Ove Rolland, CEO of Fjord Norway's tourism board, shared his apprehensions regarding the campaign’s direction. He stated, "We certainly want visitors to enjoy our nature, but we prefer it to happen through well-organised sustainable offerings provided by competent, experienced companies within the tourism industry. This ensures that our breathtaking nature remains preserved for both locals and visitors for generations to come." The concern remains that promoting outdoor activities to an expanding international travel market could lead to overcrowding in vulnerable areas, resulting in environmental degradation, littering, and even safety hazards that require rescue efforts.

Dag Terje Klarp Solvang, General Secretary of the Norwegian Trekking Association, expressed optimism about hiking as a sustainable form of tourism. However, he cautioned that "too many people unprepared for outdoor challenges can cause significant harm to both nature and the communities nearby." Meanwhile, Aase Marthe