Spaniards who previously bid farewell to British vacationers are now eagerly welcoming their return as protests against tourism decline, according to recent research findings.
Last year, residents in Spain, Mallorca, and the Canary Islands expressed anger over overcrowding by spraying tourists with water guns and engaging in confrontations on beaches. However, a new study by travel company On the Beach reveals that nearly 80% of locals have no objections to British tourists, with only a small minority, around seven percent, being against them.
The survey indicates that many respondents are concerned about the state of their businesses, as tourism plays a significant role in the Spanish economy. Nearly half of those surveyed worry that local establishments such as pubs, hotels, and shops have suffered damage due to the protests, while an overwhelming 85% recognize the vital role tourism plays in Spain’s economy.
Zoe Harris from On the Beach emphasized the importance of tourists to Spain, stating that the majority of Spaniards are eager to welcome visitors back. She highlighted that while some locals are critical of short-term rentals like Airbnb impacting housing costs, the frustration seen in protests is primarily directed at the authorities, not holidaymakers.
Despite the recent shift in preferences with Turkey surpassing the Canary Islands as the top choice for UK travelers, Spain remains a popular holiday destination. Concerns loom over the potential impact of aggressive demonstrations on the nation’s lucrative £100bn-a-year travel industry.
Last summer, there were reports of locals targeting tourists with water pistols and obstructing beach access, leading Jorge Marichal, head of the Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation, to criticize the protesters as lacking intelligence.
It is evident that Spain values and relies on tourism, and efforts are being made to ensure that visitors feel welcome and safe in the country.
