"American Tourists Embrace Crowded European Hotspots Despite Higher Prices"

European hotspots are experiencing a surge in tourism this summer, with some destinations expected to exceed 2019 records. American tourists, motivated by "revenge tourism" and undeterred by higher prices and crowds, are leading the upswing. However, sustainability concerns have been largely ignored, with a focus on revenue and the present rather than long-term consequences. While travel to and within Europe is still down 10% from 2019, Greece and Spain are seeing an increase in visitors. The rise in short-term apartment rentals is contributing to overcrowding in cities like Rome and Venice, impacting local residents and services.