Residents of the Arctic Circle are feeling the impact of overtourism, as tourist numbers skyrocket in Rovaniemi, Finland, the self-proclaimed official hometown of Santa Claus. With over 600,000 visitors annually, the Santa Claus Village theme park attracts tourists looking to experience a winter wonderland and meet Saint Nick himself. However, some locals are raising concerns about the rapid growth of tourism, which has led to the transformation of residential homes into tourist rentals. This issue is not unique to Rovaniemi, as cities across Europe are grappling with the negative effects of overtourism on their communities.
Rovaniemi’s population surges tenfold during Christmas, as tourists flock to the city to enjoy festive activities and witness the Northern Lights. While the tourism industry brings economic benefits to hotel and restaurant owners, as well as city officials, many residents are worried about the lack of control over the rapid growth of tourism. Locals have become increasingly vocal in their protests against the negative impact of overtourism, echoing similar sentiments expressed in popular European travel destinations, like Barcelona and Amsterdam. The strain on infrastructure, the degradation of historic sites, and the displacement of long-term residents are all common issues associated with overtourism.
Despite the challenges posed by overtourism, Rovaniemi continues to attract visitors from all over the world, with a record 1.2 million overnight visitors in 2023. The city’s appeal has expanded beyond European countries to attract tourists from places as far as Bangkok. The increase in flight routes and the growing popularity of Nordic destinations have contributed to the surge in tourism in Rovaniemi. However, this boom in tourism has led to a shortage of hotel availability, forcing tourists to seek accommodation in residential buildings that are intended for long-term residents.
Critics of mass tourism in Rovaniemi argue that the proliferation of short-term rentals has driven up prices, squeezed out long-term residents, and transformed the city center into a temporary space for tourists. While Finnish law prohibits professional accommodation services in buildings intended for residential use, enforcement has been lacking. Local campaigners are calling for stricter regulations to protect the rights of residents and ensure sustainable tourism practices. Mayor Ulla-Kirsikka Vainio acknowledges the financial benefits that some residents derive from short-term rentals, but the overall impact on the community remains a contentious issue.
As Rovaniemi gears up for another winter season, the debate over overtourism continues to rage on. While some visitors are drawn to the unique atmosphere of the Arctic Circle during the holiday season, others are wary of the negative consequences of unchecked tourism growth. With no immediate solution in sight, the future of tourism in Rovaniemi remains uncertain. Despite the challenges posed by overtourism, the allure of experiencing a winter wonderland and meeting Santa Claus continues to attract tourists to this remote corner of the world.
