In Spain, one of the world's leading tourist destinations, there is growing discontent about the negative effects of mass tourism. This is particularly evident in the recent protests that have caused a stir across the country. Loud confrontations broke out on the beach promenade, where a vacation atmosphere usually prevails: Demonstrators shouted abuse at tourists and told them to "go home". Signs reading "Tourists go home" and "Esta es nuestra tierra" (This is our land) were evidence of the growing tourism phobia, which has now spread to formerly peaceful regions such as the Camino de Santiago.
The situation on the Canary Islands, especially in Tenerife, is particularly tense. Locals feel overwhelmed by the negative consequences of tourism, which include environmental degradation, housing shortages, traffic jams and water shortages. The regional press, such as the specialist portal Hosteltur and the regional newspaper "El Diario", describe the archipelago as a powder keg.
In response, around 20 citizens' initiatives have joined forces to form the organization "Canarias se agota" (The Canary Islands are at their limit). They are planning a series of measures, including an indefinite hunger strike and historic large-scale demonstrations on April 20, to draw attention to their demands. These include a halt to the construction of new hotels and golf courses, the introduction of an accommodation tax and stricter regulations for vacation homes.
The protests reflect a profound crisis that is being felt not only in the Canary Islands, but also in other tourist regions of Spain such as Barcelona and the Balearic Islands. The inhabitants of these areas are suffering from the social and environmental consequences of the unchecked influx of tourists. Although the regional president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, has promised measures to better distribute the wealth generated by tourism, the population is calling for more urgent and sustainable solutions.
These developments pose major challenges for the Spanish tourism industry, which accounts for a significant proportion of the national domestic product. The increasing hostility towards tourists could have a long-term impact on Spain's image as a vacation destination and requires a careful review and adjustment of tourism policy.
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