New data shows anti-tourist protests are supported by a minority of Spaniards – with most locals saying they would happily welcome Brits to their shores
Spaniards who shouted “adios” at British holidaymakers last summer are now pleading for them to return as anti-tourism demonstrations fizzle, new research has found.
Residents left furious by overcrowding sprayed tourists with water guns and staged heated clashes on beaches throughout Spain, Mallorca and the Canary Islands last year. However, fresh research from holiday company On the Beach shows nearly 80 per cent have no issue with UK sun-seekers, with a small minority – just seven percent – opposed.
The majority of respondents said they worry about the state of their businesses, many of which are kept afloat by the healthy tourism to the country which also forms a sizable portion of Spain’s economy.
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Almost half worry that their local pubs, hotels and shops have been damaged by the demonstrations, while a staggering 85 per cent acknowledge Spain’s economy depends on tourism.
On the Beach’s Zoe Harris told the Daily Star Spaniards have delivered a “loud and clear” message that the country is in need of tourists: “The message from Spain is loud and clear, Spain needs tourists, Spain wants tourists. Those taking part in the tourism protests are in the minority.”
She continued: “Brits are vital to the communities and businesses that rely on tourism.” Nearly two-thirds of Spaniards say they’re sick of short-term lettings like Airbnb driving up rental costs and forcing locals out of the housing market.
On the Beach claimed their study proves the “frustration seen on the streets isn’t directed at holidaymakers” but at the Spanish authorities. Ms Harris continued: “Tourism is not the enemy and communities across Spain and the Canary Islands want to welcome Brits with open arms.”
Spain continues to be a favourite holiday destination, though Turkey has now overtaken the Canaries as the UK’s top choice. Spain’s tourism bosses are terrified that the vicious demonstrations targeting holidaymakers could have destroyed the nation’s £100bn-a-year travel sector.
Officials witnessed locals firing water pistols at tourists enjoying meals in restaurants while chanting “tourists go home”, with others barricading beaches and blocking visitors from sunbathing.
At the height of the chaos last summer, Jorge Marichal, chief of the Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation, branded the protesters “not very intelligent”.