Nearly half of travellers aware of tourism’s impact on local communities

68% want their travel spending to benefit local communities.

A growing number of Singapore-based travellers are factoring in the social and environmental impact of their trips, with nearly half (46%) now aware of how tourism affects both local communities and ecosystems.

According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2025, 68% want their travel spending to benefit local communities, and 67% are motivated to leave destinations better than when they arrived.

Conducted across 34 countries, including 1,000 respondents from Singapore, the research suggests that sustainability is no longer a niche concern amongst holidaymakers. Instead, it’s becoming a guiding principle—especially for those balancing the dual roles of traveller and local resident.

Whilst 49% of Singapore respondents believe tourism has a positive impact on their own communities, many still express concerns about its side effects.

Overcrowding (38%), increased cost of living (34%), traffic congestion (30%), and noise pollution (30%) were amongst the top challenges cited.

Despite these, only 22% support limiting visitor numbers, preferring infrastructure improvements such as better waste management (32%), and public transport upgrades (29%).

As hosts, Singapore-based residents reported generally positive views of tourists. Over half observed that visitors respect local customs (52%) and support local businesses (54%).

These sentiments mirror their travel behaviours—78% say they actively seek authentic experiences that reflect local culture when abroad.

The report also found that sustainable travel habits are taking hold more broadly. About 77% of respondents said that travelling sustainably is important to them, and 91% have already taken steps to do so.

Popular actions include using reusable water bottles (43%), travelling outside of peak seasons (38%), and learning about local traditions and history (37%).