Yahoo News Major anti-tourism protest to hit Spain 'at start of UK summer holidays'
Spain is bracing for more anti-mass tourism protests, timed to coincide with the start of the British summer holidays.
In previous demonstrations, thousands of locals took to the streets across Spain, brandishing signs telling tourists to 'go home'. Some even blocked holidaymakers from accessing a beach in Majorca and sprayed visitors with water in Barcelona.
The protestors are advocating for a more regulated tourism model, arguing that the influx of visitors is leading to housing shortages, job insecurity, and environmental damage.
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Several Spanish cities including Palma, Malaga, Valencia, Barcelona, Seville, and Cadiz have already implemented stricter measures to tackle overcrowding by regulating short-term rentals.
The recent spate of protests has led some UK tourists to vow to 'boycott' Spain as a holiday destination, claiming they no longer feel welcome, reports Birmingham Live.
Another large-scale protest is planned to take place at the beginning of the British summer holidays, a period when Spain typically sees a sharp rise in tourist arrivals. The next demonstration in Majorca is being organised by Menys Turisme, Mes Vida, which translates to 'less tourism, more life', and is set to be held in Palma.
The upcoming demonstration is scheduled for 7pm on Sunday, July 21 at the Intermodal Station in Plaza de Espana. The organisers have voiced their ambition for this protest to act as a 'turning point', marking the beginning of concerted efforts to address the issue of overcrowding within the Balearic Islands.
The collective has assured that their advocacy will continue even after the peak tourist season comes to an end.
"We will make our vision felt everywhere," asserted a spokesperson when speaking with the Majorca Daily Bulletin. "We must set limits to tourism and work towards a fairer and more sustainable socio-economic model."
Demands from the group include putting an end to gentrification and displacement of residents, enhancing public services, securing dignified and adequately remunerated employment opportunities, preserving and revitalising natural environments, and upholding the integrity of local culture and language.
