Majorca Residents’ Plea to Tourists Sparks Backlash
Visitors have cautioned residents to reconsider their stance on tourism after locals issued an open letter urging holidaymakers to stay away. Several “deeply concerned” resident groups penned the appeal, anticipating what they describe as the “worst summer in history” for Majorca.
Open Letter Highlights “True Situation”
Published by the Majorca Daily Bulletin, the open letter aimed to present the “true situation of our island.” It appealed for individual visitor responsibility, citing a perceived lack of responsibility from Balearic authorities and tourist industry bodies, which residents claim are “solely driven by economic interests.”
Tourists Defend Economic Contribution
In response, tourists have issued warnings emphasizing Majorca’s reliance on tourism for economic survival. One visitor highlighted the significant financial contribution of holidaymakers over the past three decades. Another questioned the potential economic consequences if tourists were to abandon the popular destination, expressing concern that “British people are no longer welcome.”
One long-term visitor commented:
“We’ve owned a holiday villa in Mallorca for over 30 years. While change is inevitable, recent developments have been disappointing.
“It’s disheartening to feel unwelcome as British visitors, especially considering our substantial investment in the island’s economy over many years. Locals should carefully consider the economic repercussions if visitors like us choose to stop coming.
“Beyond the sun, sand, and attractions inherent to a holiday resort, what else sustains their economy? Tourism is essential for their survival! Therefore, residents of Mallorca should pause and reflect before alienating us. Our financial contributions to your economy over three decades have been considerable!
“It is truly regrettable. The older generation has always been welcoming, so this shift is perplexing. We have always been friendly, but please remember, we have the option to sell our property and travel elsewhere.”
Economic Impact of Tourism in Balearic Islands
In 2023, international tourism expenditure in the Balearic Islands, including Majorca, reached an impressive £14.7 billion. This figure represents over 40% of the islands’ total Gross Domestic Product (GDP), underscoring the vital role of tourism in the region’s economy.
Visitor Boycott Threatened
One vacationer stated they wish Majorca well but declared “no intention of ever returning to Majorca.”
“I anticipate the begging letters will start when jobs and income dwindle,” the comment concluded.
Holidaymakers Reconsider Future Visits
An NHS worker, who has cherished past holidays in Santa Ponsa since childhood, is now contemplating cancelling a planned “once in a lifetime holiday” with her family.
She explained: “After several challenging years, I was eagerly anticipating quality family time in Majorca later this year. However, the letter published in today’s Bulletin has left me deeply saddened and frankly annoyed.
“As a ‘Brit,’ what troubles me is the generalizing notion that all ‘Brits’ are being unfairly categorized.”
Resident Support for Tourist Regulations
Countering the tourist perspective, one individual voiced support for concerned residents, commending “the Islands residents for taking a really important stand.” This person cited firsthand observations of how “landscapes, beaches, coves have been overrun by endless rows of aging generic concrete hotels, non-degradable waste, tacky souvenir shops, and low-quality restaurants,” seemingly indicating support for measures to control tourism’s impact.