Thousands of protests have been seen in Spain’s Canary Islands objecting against overtourism.
The cause for these objections is due to many local people being priced out of the housing market with natural resources in the region being depleted.
Around 17.3 million British tourists embarked on Spain in 2023 which reveals the UK is the top source of international visitors in the country accounting for 20.4 % of the total number of tourists in Spain.
Activists of this overtourism in Spain have been vocal in their disdain despite British tourists spending roughly £16 billion (€19.9) billion in Spain in 2023, equating to 18.4% of the total spending.
The Minister of Tourism and Employment in Spain, Jessica de Leon, has laid bare just how much Spain relies on tourism particularly among the big spenders such as Brits, highlighting the crucial role Brit tourists play in the archipelago’s economy.
Holidaymakers from the UK have been urged to continue vacationing in the Canary Islands according to de Leon.
This declaration comes as the Canary Islands are set to receive 60% of the revenue generated by British tourism in Spain this winter.
Alongside this revenue, de Leon admitted the significant economic contribution from visitors to Spain during the World Travel Market in London.
Further highlighting the importance of Brit tourists for the Canary Islands’ economy, it was revealed that the average daily expenditure of Brits in the popular hotspot stands at £106.98 (€128.60).
This figure indicates Brit tourists provide 7% above the national average and 12% higher than that of the German market.
These figures are set to rise during the upcoming winter months as Spain remains the top holiday destination for Brits during the colder period.
As Brits head to sunnier climates during winter, the Canary Islands are poised to further capitalise on this.
In order to create a more harmonious existence between locals and tourists, the local government including tourism authorities will be looking at new strategies.
These new guidelines will help enhance visitor experience while also maximising the economic benefits.
Birmingham Live reported de Leon’s response to dismay from the Spanish people towards Brit tourists stating: “People who come here to visit and spend their money must not be criticised or insulted.
“We are playing with our main source of income.”
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