Tourists visiting the popular island of Majorca have been issued an urgent “stay away” warning ahead of the first protest of this seasontakig place on Saturday (April 5).
Mass protests are likely to take place in Palma, with people across Spain to come down to the streets demanding solutions to the housing crisis. The slogan for the protests is “Let’s end the housing business” but it is feared the demonstrations will revive memories of last year’s anti-mass tourism protests and send out the wrong message to potential tourists, reports Majorca Daily Bulletin.
Last month, seven protest groups signed a letter and urged tourists not to visit Majorca.
In the letter they stated: “The greed and avarice of hoteliers, politicians, real estate investors, and ‘parasites’ of all kinds” have led to the deterioration of the island territory and ecosystem, infrastructure problems, overcrowded public services, gentrification, and the decline in quality of life. These are all the result of uncontrolled tourism.
“Majorca is not the paradise they are selling you. The local population is angry, and we are no longer hospitable because the land we love is being destroyed, and many residents are having to emigrate.”
The letter concluded: “It’s time to take a step forward. Our leaders aren’t listening to us; it’s time to ask you NOT TO COME. We don’t need more tourists; in fact, you are the source of our problem.
“At this moment, we have no choice but to ask for your understanding and for you to understand that we, the people of Mallorca, are saying: ENOUGH! STAY HOME!”
Several anti-tourism demonstrations have taken place across Spain, including in Barcelona and the Canary Islands, reflecting a broader debate on balancing economic benefits with local well-being.