The Experience Strategy Podcast is available on all major podcast platforms for free.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities of tourism in Italy, particularly focusing on the balance between local experiences and tourist demands. They explore the impact of consumer behavior on travel, the need for sustainable tourism practices, and the importance of transformational travel that benefits local communities. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for destinations to adapt to changing trends and the value of holistic travel experiences that respect both tourists and residents.

Takeaways

• In Europe, tourists are getting squirted by residents and Bezos and Sanchez's wedding makes locals mad.
• Italy's tourism faces challenges balancing local needs and tourist demands.
• The concept of slow tourism promotes quieter, more authentic experiences.
• Tourism should support local economies and respect residential areas.
• Consumer behavior in travel is increasingly influenced by social media.
• Destinations need to adapt quickly to changing trends and demands.
• Transformational travel can enhance community engagement and support.
• Tourist fees can help fund local infrastructure and services.
• A subscription model for travel experiences could foster repeat business.
• Travel experiences should cater to diverse traveler needs and preferences.
• Holistic travel experiences encompass cultural, environmental, and community aspects.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Vibrancy of Italy
06:14 The Challenges of Mass Tourism
12:11 Adapting to Changing Consumer Demands
18:10 Transformational Travel and Community Impact
23:17 The Future of Travel Experiences

Read more

https://fortune.com/2024/07/09/barcelona-residents-fed-up-with-tourism-squirting-visitors-with-water-guns/

https://www.tourism-review.com/italy-draws-visitors-with-its-fancy-experiences-news15039

https://www.businessinsider.com/glad-we-did-not-buy-one-dollar-italy-home-2024-12

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/20/style/jeff-bezos-lauren-sanchez-wedding.html

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/15/travel/europe-tourism-protests.html

Podcast Sponsor: Register for a free pilot program with Feedback Now

https://marketing-info.feedbacknow.com/free-pilot

Learn more about Stone Mantel

https://www.stonemantel.co

Sign up for the Experience Strategist Substack here:

https://theexperiencestrategist.substack.com