A longtime favorite among British tourists, the Canary Islands of Spain are facing a backward tourism as travelers increasingly choose Morocco and Turkey.
The growing dissatisfaction among locals, new tourism taxes, and the changing media narratives cast uncertainty on the region's tourism industry and raise concerns about its long-term appeal.
For years, the Canary Islands have been a go-to destination for UK travelers looking for sunny beaches and a relaxing atmosphere.
However, recent policy changes in Spain and rising anti-tourism sentiment have led many British villas to explore alternative options.
The introduction of a new tourism tax of 0.15 euros per day added concern and prompted industry leaders to warn of potential declines in visitor numbers.
Steve Heapy, CEO of UK airline JET2, has expressed concern over the impact of these changes.
Heapy warned that anti-tourism protests and increased financial burdens could drive away British tourists.
“The rising costs, coupled with anxiety about popular Spanish holiday destinations, is making tourists rethink where they spend their holidays,” he said.
Meanwhile, Morocco and Turkey have gained popularity as budget-friendly alternatives.
Known for its cultural richness, affordability and warm hospitality, Morocco is surged to British tourism, particularly in cities such as Marrakech, Agadir and Essauila.
Similarly, Turkey continues to attract British tourists with its scenic coastal resorts, historic locations and favorable exchange rates.
The affordable prices of all comprehensive packages in both Morocco and Turkey make these destinations even more appealing to cost-conscious travelers.
Spanish authorities have argued that the new taxes support sustainable tourism, but critics fear that such policies will discourage visitors along with local protests.
Tourism leaders emphasize the need for Spain to balance addressing local concerns with maintaining its reputation as a first-class holiday destination.
As Morocco and Turkey are actively promoting tourism with competitive pricing and improved security measures, the Canary Islands risk losing their base in the UK travel market.
