How is "Overtourism" best defined?

"Overtourism" is best defined as a situation where visitor numbers exceed a destination's capacity. This scenario can lead to negative impacts on local communities, environments, and infrastructures, such as overcrowding, pollution, and strain on public services. When a destination experiences overtourism, the quality of the experience for both visitors and residents often diminishes, as the natural and cultural resources can become overwhelmed.

The other definitions do not capture the essence of overtourism. For instance, a destination thriving economically might indicate a robust tourism industry, but it does not address the sustainability of that growth. Preserving local culture is generally viewed as a positive outcome of tourism, not a characteristic of overtourism. Similarly, tourism leading to environmental benefits contradicts the typical consequences of overtourism, which often include environmental degradation rather than enhancement. Therefore, option C accurately describes the challenges associated with overtourism.