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Last week, an open letter written by several Mallorcan organisations surfaced, claiming that the island is facing “the worst summer in its history” because of overcrowding and the massive influx of visitors expected. These groups have once again called on the government to put measures in place to limit tourist numbers.

 

"All predictions point to a new record for visitor numbers and overcrowding being broken by 2025, creating an emergency situation in a fragile and already uninhabitable environment," the letter read.

 

While the local organisations refer to visitors in general, the British have long borne the brunt of this widespread anti-tourism sentiment. But the Brits aren’t taking this latest slight lying down and they’ve penned their own response.

 

The letter is made up of the views of several regular visitors to the Balearic Islands, and even here opinions are divided. One tourist said that even though Mallorca is their “favourite place in the world,” they’ve decided to book their summer holidays elsewhere “until the situation is resolved.”

 

Another admitted that it “saddens” them to feel “so unwelcome on the island.”

 

Still others wrote that they were impressed that Mallorca is standing up to the government and demanding change, applauding the residents groups “of the islands for taking a truly important stand that not only affects Mallorca, but all cities facing an unsustainable, degrading and destructive avalanche of massive package holidays, foreign luxury, or, worst of all, cruise ship tourism.”

 

Visitors have also pointed out that the current situation is impacting the quality of their experience.

 

Concerns about sustainable tourism have led many people to rethink their vacation destinations, opting for more environmentally friendly locations. While Spanish adventures and Mediterranean getaways are being talked about, there is a call to find a balance that allows holidaymakers to enjoy these destinations without compromising their resources.

 

As pressure mounts on places like Mallorca, Spain needs to reflect on the tourism model it wants to promote. Unique experiences, such as nature tours or visits to natural parks, could be a way to redirect tourist interest toward more sustainable options. Furthermore, promoting farm and ranch tourism could offer another avenue for development that respects the local environment.

 

 

Image: Archive