We are living through the slow unraveling of luxury's illusion. As demand has soared and price points have ballooned, too many brands have chosen to hollow out their offerings rather than elevate them. There has to be a better way.
It’s too early to say how much extreme heat will disrupt early summer travel in the region, but the season has kicked off with a stark reminder: It is now part of the holiday landscape in southern Europe.
In Italy, key boxes used for self-check-in at short-term rentals symbolize overtourism to some locals. Some vigilantes have been sabotaging them. So officials are promising stronger enforcement of existing regulations to curb excesses.
Lufthansa Group technically remains a minority shareholder in Italy’s national carrier, but it’s already leveraging the benefits of its newly minted 41% stake.
Jacopo Vicini, a city councilor in Florence, explains that the city needs to take a tough stance on short-term rentals in its historic center. But that's just one part of a 10-point plan to preserve what makes the beautiful city appealing.
After dipping their toes in the waters of tourist management, Venice's officials are now diving in headfirst with entry fees on 54 days next year. Want to do a quick Instagram tour of St. Mark's Square? That'll be €5, grazie mille.