Anti-tourism activists dealt blow as Tenerife 'still buzzing' despite horrifying threats

Tenerife Anticipates Easter Holiday Tourist Surge Amidst Activism

Despite ongoing campaigns from anti-tourism groups, Tenerife is reportedly experiencing a vibrant atmosphere as it prepares for a significant influx of families during the Easter holidays. The popular holiday destination is expected to be crowded with visitors, signaling a potential setback for activists advocating against mass tourism.

Resorts Report High Occupancy and Attractive Prices

Tourist resorts in Tenerife are already experiencing high occupancy rates, filled with travelers seeking sunshine and benefiting from competitive prices on the island. According to reports, establishments are thriving. A local bar owner in Adeje, Tara Scarlata, shared with a publication that her British-themed bar is consistently full, both during the day and night.

Island “Buzzing” Despite Anti-Tourism Sentiment

Scarlata described the island as “still buzzing,” indicating a lively atmosphere despite recent anti-tourism actions. “We’re busier than ever before,” she stated, highlighting the current peak season even before the official summer period. She noted record-breaking business, particularly around St Patrick’s Day and the Cheltenham Races, suggesting strong tourist numbers.

Local Businesses Unfazed by Protests

Tara Scarlata, aged 40, emphasized that neither British nor Irish tourists seem deterred from visiting Tenerife, despite visible anti-tourism messages such as “Tourists Go Home” graffiti. She suggests that these sentiments have not significantly impacted tourist arrivals or the positive atmosphere on the island.

Growing Concerns and Protests Over Tourism Impact

Recent months have seen a rise in demonstrations and acts of vandalism across Tenerife, reflecting growing unease among some residents. Key concerns raised by locals include increased traffic congestion, the escalating cost of housing, and strain on the environment due to the large number of tourists visiting annually.

Vandalism Targets Beaches and Rental Vehicles

In December, acts of vandalism targeted popular beaches in Los Cristianos, where over 230 sunbeds were sprayed with graffiti. The messages conveyed included “Canarias se defiende” (the Canary Islands defend themselves) and “Canarias no se vende” (the Canary Islands are not for sale), highlighting a sense of local identity and resistance to mass tourism. Furthermore, video footage circulating online this month captured instances of vandals setting fire to rental vehicles in the Costa Adeje resort, indicating an escalation in protest tactics.

Disturbing Graffiti Sparks Worry

In January, disturbing graffiti appeared on a house wall in Tenerife, with messages such as “Kill a tourist.” This graffiti caused alarm among some residents who fear that the protests are becoming excessively aggressive and are damaging the island’s reputation.

Protests Draw Hundreds to Beaches

In October, a significant demonstration took place on Troya beach in Tenerife, with hundreds of protesters waving signs and chanting slogans, including “More tourists, more misery.” This event underscored the visible and vocal opposition to the current levels of tourism on the island.

Voices from the Island: Local Perspectives

A small group of activists previously engaged in a hunger strike outside a church in La Laguna in April of the previous year, protesting for 20 days before ending their action. This illustrates the range of tactics employed by those seeking to raise awareness about the perceived negative impacts of tourism.

Tourism Growth Requires Infrastructure Investment

Tara Scarlata reiterated that local businesses, including bars, restaurants, and hotels, are against any decline in tourism. She believes there is no cause for alarm for visitors and argues that the island’s economic growth necessitates increased investment from the local government in infrastructure, specifically roads and affordable housing.

Resident Warns of Escalating Protests if Issues Unaddressed

Brian Harrison, a 57-year-old sound engineer residing in Tenerife for three decades, indicated that further protests are planned. He cautioned that if local authorities fail to address the underlying issues, the situation is likely to worsen, suggesting continued and potentially intensified demonstrations in the future.

Protests Expected to Continue and Intensify

Harrison asserted, “The protests will continue, and they will increase,” predicting a sustained and growing movement if local political leaders do not respond adequately to the concerns raised by residents regarding tourism management and its impact on the island.