60-second Explainer: tourist syndrome

New research reveals an eye-opening "tourist syndrome" sweeping across generations. A study of 1,231 Americans found that 57% admit to acting out of character while traveling, with 43% confessing to breaking laws abroad. Most telling is the generational divide in this behaviour: 66% of Gen Z would claim ignorance of local customs versus just 17% of baby boomers. Despite their own actions, 61% support stricter punishment for tourist misconduct, while 49% blame social media for encouraging worse behaviour abroad. These findings emerge as cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam implement new measures to combat disruptive tourism.