Back in 2018, we wrote about the closing of Maya Beach in Thailand in the wake of environmental degradation caused by the phenomenon of overtourism. This closure signified an on-going trend: that many popular destinations were at capacity for tourism.

Now, 2 years later, we’ve had the chance to interview with Manuel San Martin from the Pura Vida Diving Koh Phi Phi Center to gain insight into the progress that has been made on Koh Phi Phi Leh and how the new sustainable tourism plan will take shape once the bay re-opens “tentatively” in 2021.

Dive in and read more about Maya Bay’s progress towards recovery and what lies ahead for the island.

Over-tourism has claimed another victim: Maya Beach in Koh Phi Phi Leh, Thailand.

Following in the steps of Boracay Island in The Philippines, this beautiful destination known for its blue waters, white sand and limestone cliffs will be closed indefinitely while its biodiversity and ecosystems begin their process to recovery.

Take a look at this week’s blog to read about the impact that unsustainable tourism has had on the popular beach destination as well as lessons that we, as tourists, can take away from its closure to prepare ourselves for our next vacation.