‘Last chance tourism’ is a travel trend that involves visiting destinations that are at risk of disappearing, changing, or becoming inaccessible in the future. It is mostly driven by climate change.
It highlights the sensitivity of such ecosystems, cultural sites and natural phenomena. Here are a handful of spots that are popular among those following the trend:
It's a World Heritage Site threatened by rising ocean temperatures. It is home to diverse marine life and has spots for snorkelling, diving, cruising and exploring turtle nesting sites.
Climate experts worry that 'acqua alta', aka flooding and pressures of over-tourism, can sink this culturally rich city. The Grand Canal, St Mark's Basilica, Piazza San Marco, various museums and opera houses make it a favourite tourist attraction.
Melting ice caps and glaciers are causing concerns about the future of this unique continent. Many tourists are keen to see its landscape and species before they change.
The sea, known for its extreme salinity, which is why nothing can sink, is shrinking due to water extraction by industries. Regardless, people are still visiting to enjoy its therapeutic benefits, unique ecosystem and floating experience.
Deforestation, illegal logging, and climate change threaten one of the world’s most important ecosystems, home to countless species of flora and fauna.