Canary Islands tourism chief makes plea to Brits after 'go home' message

In a surprising turn of events, Jessica de Leon, the tourism chief for the Canary Islands, has spoken out amidst rising tensions between locals and British travellers.

Some disgruntled residents have openly expressed their resentments about over-tourism, stating it's causing housing issues as well as polluting their beloved islands.

Growing tensions resulted in graffiti reading "go home", leaving some visitors feeling unsettled - causing many UK tourists to consider cancelling their annual trips to these breath-taking islands.

READ MORE: Tensions escalate as Tenerife told to get rid of Brits wearing popular item on beach

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However, de Leon has sought to reassure uneasy tourists by asserting that the Canary Islands are still open for business. Speaking to The Telegraph, she clarified: "It is still safe to visit the Canary Islands, and we are delighted to welcome you."

While admitting some level of frustration with the situation, de Leon stated it was not fair to blame all the issues on tourism.

This sentiment was echoed by the president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo. He labelled any demonstrations of "tourist-phobia" as not being beneficial.

Instead expressing his belief that those visiting and spending money should not be "criticised or insulted", arguing that this poses a risk to the region's primary stream of income.

The contentious issue of tourism's impact on local communities has sparked a flurry of opinions across social media platforms like Reddit. One British holidaymaker, who is a fan of the Canary Islands and contemplates retiring there, expressed regret over the current tensions saying: "As a Brit who loves the Canary Islands, and sits planning how to retire there, I'm really sorry it's got to this. I'm holidaying in Greece this summer for the first time in 14 years. I'd normally be on one of your islands.

"I hope you get the reassurances and control you need without doing irreparable damage to your tourist industry."

Another individual shared their travel experience and concerns about being an unwelcome guest, adding: "I went to La Palma two years ago, rented a car and really enjoyed it. I was considering Tenerife next, but I'm not as enthusiastic about it now, as I don't want to trouble the locals. I live near Bruges, so I can really empathise with the adverse effects of overtourism."

However, some commentators were keen to point out the negative aspects of tourism, particularly the behaviour of certain tourists. With one person saying: "If you think that it's the British tourists that made Spain or its people rich, you're totally delusional, and the impact of Brits in Spain is measured in more than just economic terms.

"What about the loss of community life, what about litter, noise, crowding the peaceful places? Brits are well known for being obnoxious, loud, getting drunk and causing havoc pretty much whether they find cheap alcohol. It's not a coincidence that over the last few years similar campaigns across Europe target Brits in particular, not just all tourists!

One disgruntled individual attacked British tourists' habits, remarking: "Brits change every place they visit based on their taste. By and large they do not adapt to the local customs, they're reluctant to try the local foods, drinks etc. They'll still prefer English pub food and black tea which doesn't even come from England. Enjoy Blackpool! " Another tersely added: "Good riddance."

However, some didn't share this sentiment about Brits being the problem. An offended traveller pointed out: "Really? Me, wife and three kids go to Tenerife every year and I've yet to experience these 'louts' you talk of. In my experience the ones who are loud, aggressive and have zero respect for the island are from other countries."

They concluded on a defensive note: "But sure, blame the English. Most English people who are looking for a party don't go to Tenerife."

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