Vermont: A US town that is battling 'over-tourism'

In the scenic Vermont state of the US, one of its towns, Pomfret, appears to be the picture of tranquillity. A mountain road gracefully winds down from the north, bordered by lush green fields where a flock of white sheep peacefully grazes. In the midst of this breathtaking landscape, a small forest ablaze with the fiery hues of autumn leaves. These add to the town's picturesque scenery.

However, this charming town is now facing a growing issue that has been unsettling the town's 900 residents: over-tourism. Pomfret's enchanting beauty has drawn the attention of social media influencers, nature photographers, and YouTubers. What was once a serene haven is now frequented by hordes of tourists, evident from the fact that over half the cars spotted in the town have license plates from other states.

For years, Pomfret thrived with its limited establishments—a general store, an art centre adorned with galleries, a theatre, and a handful of farm shops offering apple and pumpkin picking experiences. As a humble town, it was a haven for peace seekers. However, the tranquillity shattered when a picture of the picturesque 115-acre 'Sleepy Hollow Farm', an 18th-century farmhouse, went viral on social media platforms. This farmhouse, once a hidden gem, has now become one of the most photographed places in the entire state.

Deborah Goodwin, an employee at Pomfret's Arts Center, expressed her sorrow: "Pomfret is a beautiful place. But sadly, it's being ruined. The situation has been going out of control for a couple of years now. Tour buses arrive and unload crowds of people here."

Goodwin emphasised the blatant disregard for local rules by popular social media influencers who often trespass 'no trespassing' marked areas. She pointed out that many visitors park luxurious cars on narrow rural roads, thus congesting the roads and creating traffic jams. Additionally, the serene environment is marred by littering and the disposal of waste along the roadsides.

Pomfret's residents are not totally against any tourists visiting their town. They understand the economic significance of tourism for their state. Their request is simple: visitors are welcome but must respect the town's serenity and the peace of its residents. The call is for responsible tourism, where the beauty of Pomfret is enjoyed without causing distress to the very essence of what makes it special – its peaceful charm.

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