A tourist destination famous for its connection with Santa Claus is experiencing a huge influx of visitors that many times exceeds the local population.
Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and known as the “home” of Santa Claus, is experiencing a massive influx of tourists that many times exceeds the local population. The themed village attracts over 600,000 visitors annually, and during the holidays the number of tourists can be ten times higher than that of residents.
Locals complain about the negative effects of overtourism: house prices have risen significantly, and access to long-term accommodation is becoming almost impossible. During peak periods, almost a third of the area’s population is made up of tourists, which completely changes the life of the community, according to Forbes.
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The destination has built its tourism reputation since the 1950s, when a special Santa’s house was prepared for the visit of the US First Lady, immediately attracting international attention.
In the 1980s, with the opening of the local airport, tourism experienced a new boost: the first charter flight brought tourists from Great Britain for a day trip.
Nowadays, tourism has exploded, also fueled by the popularity of social media. In recent years, the number of visitors staying has increased by tens of percent annually, and new air routes have direct connections from several European cities, facilitating the massive access of tourists.
Many tourist experiences, such as dog sledding, are not part of the traditional culture of the area, but have been introduced to meet tourist demand. This raises questions about animal welfare.
The local indigenous community, which has rights guaranteed by national law and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, is often marketed and misrepresented to attract visitors.
Critics point out that mass tourism threatens the authenticity of traditions and respect for local culture.
Specialists recommend tourists to opt for rail transport, spend several days in the area and collaborate with responsible tourist companies that respect the environment and the local community. Locals are also demanding stricter regulations to protect community life and cultural heritage.
