Title:
Locals in Tenerife Upset with Increase in Tourists Turning Paradise into Tourism Ghetto
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FUMING locals in Tenerife have expressed their frustration over the influx of tourists that has transformed their paradise into what they call a “tourism ghetto.” The increased number of visitors, described as “ignorant,” has outraged residents of the Canary Islands. As costs skyrocket and rowdy partygoers disrupt the peace, locals are feeling the impact of over-tourism.
Rising Rental Prices and Overburdened Services
The Covid-19 pandemic brought a surge of tourists to Tenerife, exacerbating the situation for locals who now face soaring rent prices and strained services. In protest, some residents resorted to graffiti, with messages like “your paradise, our misery” and “tourists go home” displayed in popular tourism areas.
Local Resident’s Perspective
Josua Garcia-Garcia, a 33-year-old bar worker, lamented the disruption caused by holidaymakers, stating that he gets only four hours of sleep each night due to the noise and music that continues until the early hours. He called for stricter regulations on tourists to alleviate the difficulties faced by residents, including rising rent and the inability to afford basic necessities.
Impact on Housing Market
The proliferation of Airbnbs in Tenerife has displaced residents, reducing the availability of properties and driving up prices. This scenario has made it increasingly difficult for locals to find affordable housing, with many struggling to make ends meet after paying exorbitant rent prices.
Tourism Challenges Beyond Tenerife
The issue of over-tourism is not unique to Tenerife, as coastal destinations in the UK like Devon and Cornwall also face similar challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic prompted more British tourists to opt for staycations, leading to increased pressure on local housing markets and resources.
Call for Stricter Regulations
Last year, Canary Island residents staged a protest against the influx of tourists, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations to preserve the island’s natural beauty and protect the rights of its residents. Concerns about homelessness, affordability, and resource allocation are at the forefront of the community’s demands.
Addressing Resource Allocation
Reports from the Express indicate a water emergency in Tenerife, with tourist hotspots consuming six times more water than residential areas. This imbalance puts a strain on essential resources critical for drinking water and agricultural purposes, raising concerns about sustainability and conservation.
Support for Sustainable Tourism
While some residents lament the negative impact of tourism, others acknowledge its cultural and economic contributions. Calls for improved infrastructure and sustainable tourism practices aim to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation. Efforts to manage tourist influx and protect local livelihoods are crucial for long-term sustainability.
Challenges Faced by Other Tourist Destinations
Similar sentiments have been expressed in various tourist hotspots across the UK, where residents grapple with housing affordability, traffic congestion, and dwindling community resources. The clash between tourism-driven development and local interests underscores the need for effective policies and community engagement to address these complex challenges.