Brits have been urged not to cancel holidays to the Canary Islands despite controversy over mass tourism, which has brought residents of the picturesque holiday hotspot to the streets.
Holidays could be thrown into chaos as tourism controversy continues in the Canary Islands, with some declaring a “good banishment” for tourists.
Back in April, local residents expressed concern about the region's booming tourism industry, claiming that large numbers of tourists were causing housing problems and polluting the islands. There were graffiti on the walls saying things like “go home,'' which made some tourists feel quite uneasy.
Some local residents have taken to the streets to protest the tourism industry, with some Britons canceling trips or threatening not to book annual visits to the picturesque islands. But despite the tensions, regional tourism director Jessica de Leon admitted the Canary Islands remained open and hoped to attract business.
She told the Telegraph: “It is still safe to visit the Canary Islands and we are delighted to welcome you all.” Although she admitted she was unhappy about the incident, she insisted it was “unfair to blame the tourism industry”.
Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo added that people were behaving in a way that showed “tourism phobia”. He said people who come to the region to enjoy holidays and spend money should not be “criticized or insulted” as it could threaten the region's “main source of income”.
A divided public is using social media sites like Reddit to share their opinions. One person devastated by the incident said: 'As a Brit who loves the Canary Islands and is planning how he will retire there, I'm really disappointed that this has happened. I'm holidaying in Greece for the first time this summer. I'm going to spend it,” he said. For 14 years I will always be on one of your islands.
“We hope that this provides the reassurance and control that is needed without causing irreparable damage to the tourism industry.”
Another said: “I went to La Palma two years ago, rented a car and really enjoyed it. I was thinking of Tenerife next, but I don't want to bother the locals so I'm not going there for now. “I'm not very enthusiastic about it,” he wrote.
“I live near Bruges, so I understand how overtourism can be a problem.”
However, some were keen to point out the problems tourism poses, with some arguing that many visitors are not always respectful. One person said: “If you think it was British tourists who made Spain and its people rich, you are completely delusional, and British influence in Spain is not only measured in economic terms.'' .
“What about the loss of community life, what about trash, noise, people congregating in peaceful places?
“British people are well known for being obnoxious, loud drinkers, and causing havoc even when they can find cheap booze. In recent years, similar campaigns across Europe have been aimed at targeting not all tourists, but especially British Targeting people is no coincidence.
“British people change the places they visit based on their preferences. Generally speaking, they don't adapt to local customs and are reluctant to try local food, drink etc. They still prefer British pubs. You'll love the food and the tea. Even if you're not from England, enjoy Blackpool!”
Another simply added: “Good riddance.”
However, some were not convinced that visitors from the UK were the problem. They wrote: “Is it true? Me, my wife and our three children go to Tenerife every year, and we have yet to experience the kind of “mob” you describe. In my experience, people who are loud, aggressive, and have no respect for the island are: From other countries.
“But certainly, blame the British. Most British people looking to party don't go to Tenerife.”
