Holidaymakers complain: Chaos and immorality on Usedom beaches!

Holidaymakers complain: Chaos and immorality on Usedom beaches!

For many people, vacation time is the epitome of relaxation and recreation. But what do you do if your favorite place changes? Martina Melles, a loyal holidaymaker who has been coming regularly to Heringsdorf on Usedom for two weeks since 1995, recently expressed her displeasure at the increased disorder and behavior of the guests. In a letter to the editors of the Nordkurier, she explains that there used to be a different, more pleasant atmosphere on the beach. In the middle of the idyllic island setting, Melles observes that the behavior of the guests has decreased significantly, especially after the corona pandemic. She complains about unacceptable conditions, such as children doing their business on the beach and garbage being left behind in beach chairs. In addition, the improper disposal of cigarette butts in the sand creates a worse picture.

Melles was particularly upset by an incident between a pedestrian and a cyclist who was obviously walking on the sidewalk. This argument escalated when the cyclist pulled a baseball bat out of his backpack. Melles and other vacationers were forced to withdraw from the situation. “That reminds me of Kreutzberg in Berlin,” she recalls, describing how such incidents are no longer the exception. Their appeal is clear: more field staff from the public order office are needed to ensure order. In addition, she suggests increasing the tourist tax in order to use the money saved to hire staff and in turn deal with the disorder. These demands are timely, because Usedom Tours also emphasize the importance of order and cleanliness on the beaches.

Tourism in transition

There is no denying that Usedom is a popular holiday destination, but there is a noticeable change in travel behavior across the country. According to the ADAC Tourism Study 2025, Germans' preferences have changed significantly. 58% of respondents take trips of at least five days, which means the proportion will remain stable in 2025. The trend towards more frequent travel is also emerging: the so-called “frequent vacationers” have increased from 3% to 8%. Another interesting point: 69% of respondents traveled abroad in 2024, which is an increase compared to 2022.

Nevertheless, Germany remains a popular travel destination, even if the proportion of domestic trips has fallen from 36% to 31%. Many of the vacationers have also adjusted their travel plans; 44% booked their main vacation four months in advance. While the car remains the preferred mode of transport, the use of planes increases to 37%. The ADAC tourism study also points out that a total of 72% of those surveyed see overtourism as a problem and 50% support measures such as access fees.

The balancing act between nature and tourism

Given these trends, it is becoming increasingly important for holiday regions like Usedom to find a balance between thriving tourism and preserving intact nature. The associated challenges must be overcome so that future generations can also enjoy the beauty of this region. Melles’ concern about cleanliness and order on the beach is more than justified. It remains to be seen whether and how quickly those responsible will respond to the complaints and whether measures will be taken to preserve the idyllic atmosphere of Usedom.