Mallorca residents urge tourists to stop visiting the island
Mallorca campaign organisations and political groups have sent a strong and clear message to tourists who they say have harmed the island when arriving in their masses: 'Do not come' and 'stay home'.
Seven organisations representing residents, such as the environmental association GOB and campaigners Menys Turisme, Més Vida, which was behind the large anti-tourist protest that packed out the streets in Palma de Mallorca last July, have signed an open letter discouraging tourists from visiting the Spanish island.
Last summer, efforts materialised in Palma de Mallorca with 10,000 protesters showing up to take part in a large demonstration, with people walking with models of planes, cruise ships and posters reading 'no to mass tourism' and 'stop private jets'.
Ahead of the peak summer tourist season this year, the organisations are trying to raise awareness of overtourism impacts and deter the number of visitors flocking to the Mediterranean holiday hotspot.
Addressing tourists in a letter published on Saturday, 15 March, the organisations said that until very recently Mallorca's tourism industry was a 'source of pride' but has since become their 'biggest problem'.
After becoming increasingly popular over the years, the organisations say: 'The island has been exploited to unimaginable limits, leading to the collapse we are now suffering.'
With the island's tourist industry successfully bringing in high amounts of revenue, this has attracted hoteliers, politicians and real estate investors to Mallorca, however, the letter brands them as 'parasites' motivated by 'greed and avarice'.
Among the impacts, the letter says that Mallorca's residents therefore are experiencing environmental deterioration, infrastructure issues, overwhelmed public services, transport problems, gentrification and a housing crisis.
The organisations also called out politicians for continuing to promote tourism on the island and said that the use of the word 'sustainable' when talking about the industry is 'insulting'.
'Politicians tell us they want to promote the deseasonalisation of the tourism industry,' they wrote. 'This would mean reducing the number of tourists during peak season by spreading them throughout the year.
'However, what is actually happening is exactly the opposite.
'Mallorca is not the paradise they are selling you,' the letter continues. 'The local population is angry and no longer hospitable because the land we love is being destroyed and many of us have to leave the island because it is uninhabitable. Put yourselves in our place!'
The organisations then ask tourists to help them by not coming to the island: 'We do not need more tourists; in fact, you are the source of our problem'.
'Locals say: ENOUGH. STAY HOME!' the letter signs off.
The letter comes over a month since Menys Turisme, Més Vida called on its members to 'regroup' and 'redouble' its efforts against the impacts of the tourist industry ahead of the peak tourist season.
The campaign group said it would 'intensify' its actions in response to an announcement of a billion-euro investment into the tourist sector, the rise of real estate and luxury tourism speculation while the housing crisis continues to worsen.
However, it was just two weeks ago that the Balearic Government proposed a tightening on 'tourism containment measures' by offering up plans to raise the 'Sustainable Tourism Tax' from €4 (£3.36) to a maximum of €6 (£5) per person, per night in high season.
The government has also proposed the banning of new tourist accommodation in residential apartment buildings and will now be negotiating the proposals for approval in parliament.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Record
an hour ago
- Daily Record
Scotland's 'sunniest town' perfect for family summer holiday
It is home to peaceful walks and tasty restaurants with outdoor seating. Spring is over and summer is here at last. With June upon us, there is no excuse not to head out for a day trip in the idyllic Scottish countryside. When it comes to choosing a destination for a day out or a staycation, there are many factors to consider. However, many would agree that sunshine is the most important thing to consider when deciding whether to head out on a getaway. As reported by the Daily Record, Pitlochry was recently named the "sunniest" town in Scotland. According to Met Office figures that were analysed by No Deposit Awards, the Perthshire destination saw more than 193 hours of sun in May. When the sun is shining, Pitlochry's many beauty spots come alive. Whether you feel like heading out on a forest walk or enjoying the views out over the River Tummel, the sky is the limit. One of the top hikes in the area is the Falls of Bruar, consisting of a series of waterfalls on the Bruar Water. Easily reached on foot from the House of Bruar shopping centre, the beauty spot is said to have inspired Robert Burns to pen 'The Humble Petition of Bruar Water'. Elsewhere, Faskally Woods is a sprawling woodland located in Tay Forest Park along the banks of Loch Dunmore, around a mile out of Pitlochry. Two of the top trails in the forest are the Dunmore Trail and the Foresters' Trail, taking around half an hour and an hour to complete respectively. Even if you don't get lucky with the weather, there is still lots to see and do around Pitlochry on a rainy day. From museums to distilleries, there is fun for to be had for visitors both young and old The Pitlochry and Moulin Heritage Centre is currently situated in the Gladstone Room in Fishers Hotel. It is an amazing place to learn about the history of the local area and transport yourself back in time through photographs and artefacts. Elsewhere, the Atholl Palace Museum details the fascinating history of the Atholl Palace Hotel that dates back to the 19th century. Situated within the old servant's wing, it tells stories of bankruptcy, entrepreneurs, unusual and torturous spa treatments, and more. Meanwhile, the whisky lovers will want to head to the Blair Athol Distillery on the southern edge of town. Dating all the way back to 1798, the distillery hosts tours and even a 'Cask and Cocktail Experience'. Meanwhile, Pitlochry has plenty to offer when it comes to food and drink too. Despite its small size, there are restaurants, cafés, pubs, and more to try out. One of the top food spots in town is the Old Mill Inn, which is home to a restaurant that is open every day from 12pm. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available, with the outside decking the perfect spot to soak up some Pitlochry sun. Another popular eatery in Pitlochry is the Fern Cottage Restaurant, which is renowned amongst locals and tourists alike for its mix of Scottish and Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes include grilled and honey glazed goat cheese, pan-fried salmon, and Greek style gnocchi. For a lighter bite, the Garden Cafe Pitlochry is a great choice too. The café serves up tasty sandwiches, home-baked goodies, and much more. More information about Pitlochry and the things you can get up to around town can be found on the VisitScotland website.
Daily Record
4 hours ago
- Daily Record
Spain holidaymakers warned of 'targeted' anti-tourism protest next week
Demonstrators are planning to protest outside a hotel against a new luxury villa complex Holidaymakers heading to a Spanish island hotspot have been warned they could find themselves in the midst of a huge anti-tourism protest next week. Demonstrators are planning to make their views known outside a hotel in the south of Tenerife as the action against over tourism in the country continues. The protestors are set to demonstrate over the lack of affordable housing on the popular tourist island and, in particular, about the construction of 240 luxury villas at El Puertito de Adeje. The protest is planned for June 14 at midday. The Canarian Weekly reports that the demonstrators will drive home to tourists at the hotel their fears 'about the sale of luxury properties in an illegal project'. They also want to raise awareness of 'how El Puertito is being destroyed' and why 'we must not support businesses that harm the environment.' The construction of the villas at Cuna Del Alma is set to go ahead despite 50,000 signatures demanding the halt of the work. Protestors have also cited the violations of archaeological protections with the building work. The local newspaper also said, according to official documents, heavy machinery was seen operating in restricted zones even after the project had been ordered to stop. There are also concerns over the threat to protected flora. The June 14 demo has been organised by the activist group Salvar el Puertito and will take place outside the Hotel Baobab Suites in Costa Adeje. The suites are owned by owned by Belgian businessman Filip Hoste, the promoter behind the Cuna del Alma tourism development. The Foreign Office has advised British tourists to be cautious and alert if they are caught up in protests. They said: "Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities. "While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you're near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder." The upcoming protest is expected to reignite debate over the future of El Puertito and the balance between tourism development and environmental conservation in the Canary Islands. The hotel complex is served by Jet2, Tui and Easyjet passengers from the UK. The demonstration comes after tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets of Spain to protest against housing speculation and to demand access to affordable homes. Organisers claim that up to 150,000 peple joined the protest in Madrid while smaller demonstrations were held in about 40 cities across the country. Protesters from Málaga on the Costa del Sol to Vigo in the Atlantic northwest chanted 'end the housing racket' and 'landlords are guilty, the government is responsible'.
Scottish Sun
5 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
We swapped stressful UK for sun-drenched Spanish island & save £2.3k a month on rent – if you WFH, it's a perfect move
Dad Ruben Diegz reveals his top tips if YOU want to start a dream new life abroad just like his family-of-three GRAN PLAN We swapped stressful UK for sun-drenched Spanish island & save £2.3k a month on rent – if you WFH, it's a perfect move ENJOYING a sunset walk along the beach with his partner and their five-year-old son, Ruben Diegz relishes the warm air, music playing on the beach and quality family time. But the trio are not on holiday - they left Britain for a break four years ago and decided to stay, swapping their "stressed-out lives" to pursue a dream of beach living and a cheaper way of life. Advertisement 10 Ruben Diegz, his partner Lisa Perri and their son swapped their life in the UK to live on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 The family were lured by the sunny weather, beaches and laid-back way of life Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 They rent a four-bedroom rooftop apartment for a fraction of the cost of a similar property in Surrey Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri Their new home is a spacious four-bedroom villa style apartment with sea views in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, part of the Canary Islands located just 150 miles off the coast of Africa. In the island archipelago paradise, loved by Brit tourists for their cobalt blue skies, billowing palm trees and black volcanic sand beaches, a pint costs £1.50, cappuccinos around £1.40 and fresh seafood is in abundance. Advertisement The family pay just £700 a month for their four-bedroom apartment, which features an open plan roof garden and balcony for evening meals. Renting their island home is a third of the cost of a one-bedroom flat in London, which costs around £2,000 a month, and £2,300 a month cheaper than the cost of a similar size property in Woking, where the couple lived previously. Ruben, 40, tells The Sun he, his partner Lisa Perri, 36, and their son 'couldn't be happier or more content" with their new life. 'It was a snap decision, a life altering one, but I knew it was the right thing for myself and our family," he says. "We now get to raise our son in a sub-tropical paradise where the sun shines 300 days a year. Advertisement 'Making the decision was easy. Packing up home took longer, but it was worth the effort. 'We have access to amazing quality seafood, fruits and vegetables, everyone is more relaxed and less stressed. The best thing is our son is having an island upbringing." Dubbed a "miniature continent" and home to almost 300,000 expats, Gran Canaria is the third-largest of the Spanish Canaries and considered one of the best islands in Spain to live by Brits lured by warm weather and cheap rents. Stunning Seaside Miami-style beach hotel in Maspalomas offers sun, sand dunes and 70s chic Maspalomas, where Ruben and Lisa now call home, offers a cost of living which is half as cheap (48.5 per cent) as London. In 2023, Gran Canaria welcomed approximately 947,449 British tourists, a record high for the island, with that number expected to top a million this year. Advertisement Airline company staffer Lisa and Ruben, who runs an online e-commerce company, have been together since July 2010 after meeting through friends. The couple were living in Ruben's two-bedroom flat in Woking, Surrey, when they flew to Gran Canaria in March 2021, eager to escape lockdown and enjoy a sun-drenched holiday. Ruben recalls: 'Just flying out for a break was a huge relief. 'While we were there a new lockdown began and we couldn't leave the island. I wanted to be able to take our son to the park without seeing gangs of youths and be able to buy a meal out without having to get a loan Ruben Diegz 'There were no flights out, but thankfully both Lisa and I were able to work from home. We spent the next six months staying in an Airbnb on the island.' Advertisement The pair admit it was "an absolute joy". 'Everyone was so relaxed. The weather was amazing. The air was clean and the huge sense of worry which hung over Britain was not present,' says Ruben. 'I knew if we were to build a future, Gran Canaria was the place to do it. 'I wanted to be able to take our son to the park without seeing gangs of youths and be able to buy a meal out without having to get a loan. 'We both realised we had to make a radical change to ditch Woking and Britain for the no stress life offered in Gran Canaria.' Advertisement Easy decision 10 The family felt the Canaries offered a fresh start for them Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 Ruben says the cost of a family meal out is usually under £40 Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 Gran Canaria is adored by Brits Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri When they were able to return to the UK at the end of 2021, they flew home to tell friends and family they were moving abroad. 'They all thought we were crazy. Many people couldn't understand what motivated us or how we even planned to do it," Ruben admits. Advertisement 'They thought the idea was bonkers but it's the easiest decision we ever made." Ruben let out his Woking flat and used savings to fund the move. They began renting their Maspalomas apartment in January 2023. Back in Woking, renting a four-bedroom property would have set the family back approximately £3,000 a month. Lisa says: 'We can't believe how much space we have. Our son can play and have the best time. Advertisement Our rooftop is larger than the size of a normal British terraced house garden. Ruben Diegz 'Homes in Gran Canaria are more spacious, open plan and designed for relaxed family living and entertaining. The emphasis is on the quality of time you spend with each other.' Ruben adds: 'Our rooftop is larger than the size of a normal British terraced house garden - you can BBQ on it and enjoy relaxed evenings in summer." The couple's apartment was furnished but they say most landlords will allow you to move out items you don't want. Once they'd settled, Lisa found a job in a health and beauty spa before beginning her current role at an airline company. 'For many people, moving their entire life to a new country is terrifying," says Ruben. Advertisement 'As soon as we got back to Maspalomas I felt 10 years younger! The weight of the world lifted and the stress of living in Britain washed away. 'Life here instantly felt easier. We were welcomed by our neighbours and after two weeks I felt like I'd been living here all my life. 'The locals all say hello when you walk down the street. Everyone knows each other and there is a kindness you experience here that you don't get in London.' 'Healthy change' 10 Ruben says his health has improved since moving to Gran Canaria Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 The couple admit their family thought they were mad Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri Advertisement During lockdown in Britain, Ruben suffered from stress alopecia, but since moving to Gran Canaria, it's disappeared. 'It was the healthy change my body needed," he says. "Lisa also feels amazing. Our family is glowing." Monthly bills are also significantly less costly than in the UK. Electricity, which includes heating and air conditioning as well as water, is £60 a month. The couple pay £28 a month for their internet, with a phone landline and two mobile phones included in the package. 'Wi-Fi is super-fast here. It's one of the reasons Gran Canaria is so popular with digital nomads,' says Ruben. Advertisement Our son attends the local international school and it costs £500 a month. That's half the price of nursery back in Britain Lisa Perri Ruben pays £28 for a premium gym membership each month. While cars are generally more expensive - the couple paid £4,000 for a second-hand Clio - they're cheaper to run. 'Petrol is £1.10 a litre," says Ruben. "A taxi will cost around £1.70 a kilometre - in London it is up to double the price." The family eat out at local restaurants at least three times a week, with a three-course meal for two costing less than £40. A local beer will set you back £1.15, while locally produced wine sells for £4.82 a bottle in the supermarket. Advertisement Island-grown tomatoes, bananas, oranges, avocado, papaya, olives, cucumbers and aubergines are always available in local markets and supermarkets. The couple spend £90 a week on supermarket shopping. Milk is 87p a litre, fresh bakery bread is £1, a dozen eggs costs £2.38 while locally produced cheese is £8.55 a kilo. 'It's amazing to buy fruit and veg just from the fields', Lisa says. 'You realise just how expensive it is to buy food in Britain when you live here. You start questioning why food back home is so expensive." New community 10 The family have made new friends by joining sports teams like their local Padel side Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri Advertisement 10 Their new family home is a dream for entertaining Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri The couple say they've integrated well into the expat community by joining local sport groups. Ruben plays football for an expat team every Tuesday and Thursday, and the couple also play Padel. 'You get to connect with other expats on WhatsApp groups and everyone knows when the next game or match is and you are never short of a sport to play," Ruben says. 'Making friends is so much easier here.' Lisa says the high education standard is also a big draw for British expats. Advertisement She explains: 'Our son attends the local international school and it costs £500 a month. That's half the price of nursery back in Britain. 'We chose a nursery which is part of the school he will attend for primary school." Lisa adds the meals provided at for the children at school are gourmet compared to British schools. 'The school invited parents to come for lunch. I'd eat the school lunches here every day if I could," she admits. 'Our son is already bi-lingual. Being able to go to the beach for a quick early evening swim with him or have his pals over is so much easier here. The locals are very family-focused." Advertisement Our son is already bi-lingual Lisa Perri Flying to neighbouring islands like Lanzarote and Tenerife costs around £30. 'All the islands are different. You can visit La Gomera, an island with its own whistling language - not something you could easily do from Britain," says Ruben. 'For our family, the dream of island life has become a reality. We are definitely happier, healthier, and better off financially. 'Living in Britain at home seems like a blur now - we're focused on sub-tropical living, sunshine and hope now."
