holiday hotspots in Spain and Greece at breaking point with tourists

Overcrowded Destinations: Spain and Greece Facing Tourist Backlash

This summer, iconic tourist spots in Spain and Greece have become battlefields as locals protest against overwhelming visitor numbers.

The Surge of Tourism: Local Frustrations Emerge

Demonstrations have erupted in these hotspots, highlighting the negative impacts of mass tourism on local economies. Some residents have even resorted to hunger strikes to voice their concerns over the booming tourist sector.

Local authorities are contemplating drastic measures, including cutting off water supplies to illegal vacation rentals, while some residents have taken to using water guns to deter tourists.

Places like Palma de Majorca, Athens, and Santorini are reported to be nearing a "breaking point" as tourism numbers threaten to surpass pre-pandemic levels, with a six percent increase in international arrivals noted by the European Travel Commission.

Rising Temperatures and Environmental Strain

The pressure on these destinations is being exacerbated by climate change, with July marking 14 consecutive months of record-breaking temperatures globally.

Spain and Greece have faced scorching heat, with temperatures exceeding 114 degrees Fahrenheit. While tourism remains a fundamental part of the economy, locals are expressing the need for a more equitable distribution of its financial benefits to improve community welfare and infrastructure.

Local Voices Against Overtourism

In Palma de Majorca, large protests in July drew over 50,000 participants, with slogans like "Let's save Majorca, foreigners out" becoming prominent. A local protester, Camila Guzman, shared her sentiment: "We have been invaded by tourists; the situation is out of control."

Additionally, anti-tourism graffiti such as "Stop Tourism" has appeared in Palma, reflecting the growing discontent. People dining in Barcelona have also faced protests from activists wielding water guns, disrupting their meals.

Housing costs in Spain have surged by 68 percent over the last decade, with many blaming holiday rentals for the price inflation. Workers within the seasonal tourism sector and residents alike have reported difficulties finding affordable housing amid increasing living costs.

Efforts to Manage Tourist Influx

In a bid to tackle the influx, Greek destinations like Santorini and Mykonos are now regulating the number of cruise ships allowed to dock, having seen a drastic increase in cruise tourist numbers from 4.38 million to 7 million in one year.

This growing tourist pressure presents significant challenges, leading to calls for structured management to protect both local communities and natural environments.

As this situation unfolds, the expectation is that finding a balance between tourism benefits and preserving local life will become a priority for these stunning yet strained destinations.