Majorca experiences drop in British tourists

Majorca faces a decline in British tourists due to ongoing protests over overtourism.

Majorca sees drop in British tourists as protests disrupt holiday season

Tourist numbers in Majorca have significantly dropped as protests against overtourism escalate. British visitors, who once flocked to the island, appear to be avoiding the destination. Hotel and restaurant owners report that establishments are only half-filled, especially in areas like Capdepera and Soller, according to the Majorca Hotel Business Federation (FEHM). While tourism last summer was robust, resulting in over 13 million visitors, this year's situation is concerning, with some restauranteurs even allowing staff to take leave during peak weeks. FEHM vice-president María José Aguiló noted challenges in forecasting due to changing booking patterns and expressed cautious optimism about matching last year's performance despite current declines.

The situation in Majorca shines a light on the tensions between tourism and local sentiment. As protests grow louder, the island's appeal is being tested. This shift could hint at larger trends across popular tourist destinations, where the surge in visitor numbers leads to community pushback. If more locals voice their concerns, destinations may need to rethink the sustainable approaches to tourism to balance economic needs with community welfare. How Majorca adapts could set a precedent for other locations facing similar challenges.

Highlights

The path ahead for Majorca will depend on how it navigates local concerns.