The Rise of Overtourism and Road Safety Challenges in Scotland
In recent years, the issue of overtourism has become a growing concern across various regions, particularly in Scotland. The influx of tourists has led to increased traffic congestion, which in turn has contributed to a rise in road accidents. This situation has prompted local business owners and safety advocates to seek innovative solutions to address the problem.
One such solution is the introduction of “tourist plates” — adhesive stickers that drivers can place on their vehicles to signal to other road users that they are unfamiliar with the area. This idea was inspired by a personal experience of Robert Marshall, a Scottish hotel owner who faced a stressful driving situation in Tenerife. He recalls the moment when he was driving on the opposite side of the road, struggling to read signs and feeling pressured by tailgating drivers. His frustration led him to develop the tourist plate concept, aiming to improve road safety for both locals and visitors.
A New Approach to Road Safety
The tourist plates have gained attention as a potential tool to enhance road safety. Laùra Hänsler, a safety campaigner for the A9, has been working alongside Marshall to promote these plates. She emphasizes that the infrastructure in the Scottish Highlands is under significant strain due to the increasing number of tourists. According to her, the roads are not equipped to handle the current volume of traffic, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
Transport Scotland has not officially endorsed the tourist plates, but they have acknowledged that as long as the plates are not offensive, drivers are free to use them. This flexibility has allowed the initiative to gain traction online, with many travelers from around the world showing interest in purchasing the £9.99 (approximately $13.50) plates. A portion of the proceeds goes to road-safety charities, further supporting the cause.
The Impact of Overtourism on Local Infrastructure
The increase in tourism has placed a significant burden on local infrastructure, particularly in areas like the Scottish Highlands. The A9, Scotland’s longest road, has seen a notable rise in serious road traffic accidents involving tourists. In 2025, Transport Scotland reported a 46% increase in crashes involving overseas drivers on the wrong side of the road. This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing the safety concerns associated with overtourism.
Local authorities have taken steps to educate tourists about road safety, particularly American visitors. The BBC reported that local police were collaborating with US Embassy officials to provide safety advice. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that all tourists are adequately informed and prepared for the unique driving conditions they may encounter.
Navigating the Challenges of Navigation
While the focus on road safety is crucial, another challenge that tourists face is navigation. In South Korea, for example, Google Maps does not fully function, prompting visitors to rely on alternative apps like Kakao Map and Naver Map. This situation highlights the importance of understanding local navigation tools and the need for digital sovereignty in the tech industry.
The struggle over map data ownership has led to geopolitical tensions, with a government decision expected in October 2025. This decision could significantly impact how tourists navigate the country and access essential information.
The Changing Landscape of Tourist Information
As technology evolves, the role of tourist information booths is also changing. In Scotland, all tourist information centers are set to close by the end of 2025, marking a shift towards digital resources. In contrast, Asian countries like South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong are experiencing a boom in tourist information centers. These centers provide structured guidance and interpersonal explanations, which are highly valued by Asian tourists.
Xiang Li, a Hong Kong hospitality expert, notes that Asian tourists generally prefer a more guided approach to travel, while European tourists tend to favor self-guided experiences. This difference in preferences highlights the need for tailored services that cater to the diverse needs of international visitors.
Unexpected Travel Mishaps
Despite efforts to improve safety and navigation, unexpected travel mishaps continue to occur. One notable incident involved two American friends who accidentally boarded a plane to Tunis, Tunisia, instead of traveling to Nice, France. Their journey, filled with mishaps, became a viral sensation, showcasing the unpredictable nature of travel.
These incidents serve as reminders of the importance of careful planning and awareness when traveling. They also highlight the need for clear communication and accurate information to prevent such errors.
The Future of Travel and Safety
As the travel industry continues to evolve, the challenges posed by overtourism and road safety remain pressing issues. Innovations like the tourist plates offer promising solutions, but they also underscore the need for comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of these problems.
In addition to road safety, the integration of digital tools and the adaptation of tourist services will play a crucial role in enhancing the travel experience. As destinations strive to balance the benefits of tourism with the challenges it presents, the focus must remain on creating a safer and more informed environment for all travelers.
By addressing these issues proactively, communities can ensure that the positive aspects of tourism are maximized while minimizing the risks associated with overtourism. This approach will not only benefit local residents but also enhance the overall travel experience for visitors from around the world.
