Backlash is brewing in Rome as tourists are using a new way to navigate the crowded cobblestone streets.Golf cart tours have surged in popularity, with bookings this summer up 147% compared with 2024, according to Tripadvisor data cited by The Associated Press (AP). The result? Total chaos, locals say.POPULAR DESTINATION CRACKS DOWN HARD ON TOURISTS AS NEW LIMITS THREATEN SUMMER GETAWAYSCritics argue the golf carts are out of control, contributing to illegal parking, heavier traffic and massive crowds.As many as 500 carts could now be operating on the streets of Rome, Italy, according to AP.A golf cart used to ferry around tourists is seen near the Colosseum on Aug.18.
The growing presence of carts in the city's historic center is upsetting many local residents. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)Supporters counter the carts are quiet, take up less space and produce no exhaust fumes that can discolor historic monuments, the outlet reported.Pauline Frommer, publisher of Frommer's guidebooks and Frommers.com, told Fox News Digital that Rome's limited public transportation has created demand for another way to get around.ANGRY LOCALS BLOCK FAMOUS BEACH AS MASS TOURISM PROTESTS ESCALATE AT VACATION HOT SPOT"There isn't that much public transportation because whenever they start to dig a subway, they come upon a priceless relic and the dig site becomes an archaeological site," said Frommer, the daughter of late travel guidebook pioneer Arthur Frommer. "Into this void has come a fleet of golf carts."Rome is moving to regulate golf carts in tourist areas after complaints from locals about the worsening congestion.(NurPhoto via Getty Images)Frommer said the small vehicles can maneuver through Rome's historic center and narrow streets, making them an attractive option for tourists trying to cover more ground.The problem, Frommer said, is the sheer number competing for space.FAMOUS BEACH NOW REQUIRES VISITORS TO RESERVE SPOTS WEEKS AHEAD AND PAY FEESThe Associated Press witnesse...