One of the 'world's most beautiful islands' named on list of places to avoid

Agrigento, situated on the southwest coast of Sicily, is being loved to the brink of ruin, warns the 2025 Fodor's Travel 'Go and No Lists'. The charming coastal city is grappling with the effects of over-tourism, which threatens its cultural heritage and strains its environment.

Already designated as a future Italian Capital of Culture for 2025, Agrigento is on the cusp of welcoming more visitors, exacerbating existing issues. Fodor's cautionary advice speaks volumes: "The area is facing a severe water crisis that could be further aggravated by increased tourism and could irrevocably harm its most precious cultural treasures and punish its permanent residents."

Due to regular shortages, residents of the historic hilltop town have traditionally relied on cisterns and tanker water deliveries. However, climate changes and an enduring drought push the situation to a critical juncture.

Smaller hospitality businesses, like guesthouses and boutique hotels, struggle to maintain a water supply, especially during peak months like August. This restricts their ability to provide basic facilities such as showers and working toilets. Larger establishments may have the means to import water, but smaller ones often lack storage space and funds.

Local enterprise owners and residents face daunting challenges; some include closing their businesses, while many households depend on stored supplies for daily hygiene and cooking.

A mix of factors is being held responsible for the water crisis in Agrigento. The city's outdated and leaky underground water system is failing to meet demand, with some residents blaming inadequate governance and management for the shortage.

Talks about upgrading the water network have been ongoing since 2011, but