Pondering ‘Tourism’s Withering Impact’ in Asia

Denis D. Gray looks at the rise of travel to “places once isolated by conflicts, hostile regimes and ‘off-road’ geography to which only the more intrepid travelers had earlier ventured.”

He continues: “And as Asia’s last little gems, one after another, succumb to tourism’s withering impact, there are truly pangs in my heart—together with a dose of selfish jealousy as for a love one must now share with many.” Among the places he’s talking about: Luang Prabang, Laos; Siem Reap, Cambodia; and Pai, Thailand.

It’s an interesting piece, but here’s another on the subject I liked more: Peter Delevett’s The (Full Moon) Party’s Over.

©2026 World Hum, All Rights Reserved