The recent decline in British tourists visiting Majorca has brought renewed attention to the island's growing anti-tourism sentiment. Latest travel data indicate a significant drop in visitors from the UK, which has traditionally been one of the top sources of tourists for the Balearic Islands, contributing approximately 26% of total tourist numbers. Annually, Majorca attracts over 2.3 million British holidaymakers, yet recent trends suggest that discontent among locals and ongoing protests may be influencing holiday decisions.

Majorca has been the focal point of widespread protests against mass tourism, with demonstrations drawing participation from tens of thousands of residents. Activists argue that tourism is straining resources and damaging the environment, rendering everyday life “unbearable” for locals. Particularly vocal is the campaign group 'Menys Turisme, Mes Vida' (Less tourism, more life), which has announced plans for additional protests in June. This wave of activism is not isolated; similar movements have emerged across Spain, reflecting a broader dissatisfaction with the influx of tourists that locals feel is out of step with their daily needs.

Historically, cities like Barcelona and Venice have faced backlash for the impacts of booming tourism on local communities and infrastructure. In Barcelona, demonstrators have resorted to using water pistols against tourists as a symbolic protest against overcrowding and rising housing costs—issues that also plague Majorca. Reports indicate that rental prices in Majorca have soared by over 158% in the last decade, forcing some residents, like Pilar Hernando, to live in caravans due to financial pressure exacerbated by the tourism industry.

The Spanish government has acknowledged the challenges posed by mass tourism, stressing the need for regulation and a more sustainable tourism model. Recently, Spain's tourism minister condemned extreme protest actions like the water pistol incidents in Barcelona but also recognised that the current tourism paradigm requires significant reform. The push for change is echoed in the Canary Islands, where locals are also demanding a reconsideration of tourism dependency, highlighting rising rental prices and environmental concerns as key issues.

As the protests in Majorca coincide with an overall increase in foreign tourism—up by 13.5% in April—it becomes evident that the rising local discontent is influencing how potential tourists perceive their travels. The planned demonstrations in Palma, which will be synchronised with events in other major cities, underscore the urgency with which locals are calling for a re-evaluation of tourism’s role in their communities. With the tourism sector accounting for a significant portion of local GDP, the challenge lies in finding a balance where both residents and visitors can coexist harmoniously, ensuring that the beauty of Majorca is preserved for future generations.

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Source: Noah Wire Services