Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Last chance tourism: A trend that can disturb fragile ecosystems

Studies reveal that while 70 per cent of tourists express a strong motivation to witness natural wonders before they disappear

Last chance tourism: A trend that can disturb fragile ecosystems

In the ever-evolving landscape of travel, a peculiar trend has emerged - last chance tourism. This captivating phenomenon is driven by the allure of experiencing nature's wonders before they vanish forever.

From witnessing the Great Barrier Reef's vibrant corals to encountering polar bears in Churchill, Canada, travellers are flocking to endangered destinations, driven by a sense of urgency.


The genesis of last chance tourism

The concept of last chance tourism first gained prominence in 2008, coinciding with growing concerns about the impact of climate change on our planet's fragile ecosystems. It began in Churchill, Manitoba, where polar bears faced threats due to diminishing sea ice. The term encapsulates the paradoxical nature of travellers seeking out endangered sites, before it’s too late.

The rising trend: Last chance destinations

As budget airlines make global travel more accessible, last chance tourism has seen a surge in popularity. The decline in prices, especially for flights to iconic destinations like Australia's Great Barrier Reef or Argentina's glacier fields, has fueled the urgency to check off items from travellers' "holiday bucket lists."

australia-great-barrier-reef-last-chance-tourism Trending to visit the places endangered, 'Last Chance Tourism' (Representative image: Getty images)

The environmental conundrum

However, the very act of last chance tourism raises critical questions about its environmental impact. Increased tourist traffic can disturb fragile ecosystems, expose endangered species to poachers, and accelerate environmental degradation. The paradox lies in the fact that the desire to witness nature's splendour 'before it's gone' may inadvertently hasten its demise.

The role of education

Breaking the cycle of self-perpetuating destruction requires education. Studies by the University of Queensland reveal that while 70 per cent of tourists express a strong motivation to witness natural wonders before they disappear, they often underestimate their own contribution to environmental harm.

Small actions, when multiplied, have significant consequences. It's crucial to educate travellers about their role in climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution, fostering a mindset that values small contributions to sustainability.

A global perspective

Last chance tourism is not confined to specific regions; it's a global phenomenon. From the declining health of Australia's Great Barrier Reef to the rapid retreat of glaciers in New Zealand and the vulnerability of Mount Kilimanjaro's snow cover, iconic destinations worldwide face the dual challenge of attracting tourists for economic sustenance while battling environmental threats.

Benefits amidst the crisis

While last chance tourism poses risks, it also offers unique benefits. Tourists seeking these experiences often display heightened environmental consciousness. Their interest may drive increased support for ecotourism and sustainable travel. Furthermore, the economic contributions from nature-based tourism can fund crucial conservation efforts, supporting the protection of vulnerable ecosystems.

The overtourism connection

Last chance tourism intersects with the broader issue of overtourism. Destinations already grappling with overcrowding now face the added pressure of last chance tourism. Places like Venice, threatened by flooding, witness a surge in visitors who seek to experience them before they change irreversibly. This synergy creates a destructive duo, further endangering fragile destinations.

venice-endangered-location-last-chance-tourism UNESCO to deliberate on the potential inclusion of the Italian city, Venice on a roster of endangered world heritage sites. (Representative image: Getty images)

Navigating a responsible future

As the tourism industry continues to grow, the responsibility to manage last chance tourism falls on both authorities and individual travellers. Sustainable practices, responsible tourism, and a commitment to minimising environmental impact are essential. While the allure of witnessing vanishing wonders persists, the focus must shift towards preserving these treasures for future generations.

The urgent call for change

The urgency to experience threatened destinations before they disappear should not overshadow the need for responsible travel. Last chance tourism, driven by loss aversion, requires a collective shift in perception.

Industry leaders, media, and travellers must engage in open conversations about the detrimental effects of this trend, fostering a global movement towards responsible tourism.

Last chance tourism is a captivating yet perilous trend that demands introspection. Balancing the desire to witness nature's wonders with the responsibility to protect them is the key to ensuring that our planet's beauty endures.

As travellers, we stand at a crossroads - the choices we make today will determine whether these "last chances" become our legacy or our downfall.

More For You

Toshi.bet: Revolutionizing Crypto Gaming with High Rewards and Innovative Gameplay

Toshi.bet: Revolutionizing Crypto Gaming with High Rewards and Innovative Gameplay

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving world of crypto casinos, one platform is standing out for its innovative gameplay, unmatched rewards, and community-driven growth — Toshi.bet. Recognized by CoinMarketCap as a pioneer in crypto gaming, Toshi.bet is transforming how players interact with digital assets while gaming.

Why Toshi.bet Is Leading the Crypto Casino Industry

1. Best Rewards in Crypto Gaming

Keep ReadingShow less
China Nvidia chip ban

Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has said he is “disappointed” following reports

iStock

China reportedly bans Nvidia chip sales as CEO expresses disappointment

Highlights:

  • China’s Cyberspace Administration has reportedly ordered tech firms to stop using Nvidia’s AI chips
  • Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says he is “disappointed” but will remain “patient”
  • Huang is visiting the UK alongside other tech leaders during Donald Trump’s state visit
  • Nvidia became the world’s first $4tn company earlier in 2025 amid the AI boom

Huang responds to reported China directive

Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has said he is “disappointed” following reports that China has told its leading technology firms to halt purchases of the company’s artificial intelligence chips.

Speaking to reporters in the UK, Huang added that he would remain “patient” in light of the reported order from China’s internet regulator, the Cyberspace Administration. “There are a lot of places we can’t go to, and that’s fine,” he said.

Keep ReadingShow less
Eurovision 2026

Spain announces withdrawal from Eurovision over Israel participation amid growing boycott movement

Instagram/eurovision

Eurovision in turmoil as Spain Ireland and Netherlands threaten withdrawal over Gaza conflict

Highlights:

  • Spain leads a growing boycott movement, with Ireland, the Netherlands and Slovenia also refusing to participate if Israel competes.
  • The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is in crisis talks, extending its decision deadline to December 2025.
  • The situation draws direct comparisons to Russia’s exclusion in 2022, creating a precedent the EBU must now navigate.
  • The core dilemma pits Eurovision’s non-political ideals against the stark reality of a humanitarian crisis.

The Eurovision Song Contest, that glitter-drenched annual spectacle of pop and unity, is staring into the abyss. The escalating call for a Eurovision boycott over Israel's participation, against the backdrop of the ongoing Gaza conflict, has put the organisers into their most severe political crisis yet. This isn't just about another song entry but a fundamental clash between the contest's cherished apolitical fantasy and the inescapable geopolitics of the real world, threatening to tear the competition apart from within.

Eurovision 2026 Spain announces withdrawal from Eurovision over Israel participation amid growing boycott movement Instagram/eurovision

Keep ReadingShow less
Unni Mukundan and Narendra Modi

Malayalam star Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in ‘Maa Vande’ tracing PM’s roots and mother’s legacy

Instagram/iamunnimukundan

Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in biopic, ‘Maa Vande’, about the leader's bond with late mother

Highlights:

  • Malayalam star Unni Mukundan announced as lead in Narendra Modi biopic titled Maa Vande.
  • The film will focus on the Prime Minister's early life and bond with his mother.
  • A pan-India release is planned for 2026 with a major technical crew attached.
  • Mukundan is currently riding high on the success of his brutal action film Marco.

Malayalam cinema actor Unni Mukundan is stepping into the biggest role of his career. He has been officially cast as Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming biographical film Maa Vande. The project, announced on the PM's 75th birthday, promises a fresh look at Modi's formative years. Instead of another political portrait, the filmmakers are zeroing in on his personal journey and the profound influence of his mother.

Unni Mukundan and Narendra Modi Malayalam star Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in ‘Maa Vande’ tracing PM’s roots and mother’s legacy Instagram/iamunnimukundan

Keep ReadingShow less
Bobby deol and Aryan Khan talent

Bobby Deol says Aryan Khan has fearless spark and rare talent as The Bastards of Bollywood gears up for Netflix release

Instagram/iambobbydeol/redchilliesent

Bobby Deol says Aryan Khan’s approach proves Shah Rukh Khan’s son has rare natural talent

Highlights:

  • Bobby Deol reveals he was impressed by Aryan Khan's acting skills during the making of the new Netflix series.
  • The actor describes Shah Rukh Khan's son as a fearless and uniquely talented filmmaker.
  • Deol admits he felt protective and fatherly towards the young director on set.
  • 'TheBa***ds Of Bollywood' is set to premiere on Netflix on September 18.

Bobby Deol has heaped praise on Aryan Khan, calling him a talented actor who could have easily chosen to be in front of the camera. The veteran star, who features in the newcomer’s directorial debut 'The Ba***ds Of Bollywood', said the show’s teaser confirmed his belief that Shah Rukh Khan’s son has a natural screen presence. Deol also opened up about the young director’s meticulous and passionate approach to filmmaking.

Bobby deol and Aryan Khan talent Bobby Deol says Aryan Khan has fearless spark and rare talent as The Bastards of Bollywood gears up for Netflix release Instagram/iambobbydeol/redchilliesent

Keep ReadingShow less