Anti-tourism campaigners have spoken about plans to disrupt the holidays this summer as the group continues to protest the tourism industry. Pere Joan, spokesman and organizer for Menis Turism Mes Vida (Tourism, More Life), spoke about whether action will soon occur as the holiday season approaches rapidly.
Menys Turisme Més Vida has been one of the most prominent campaign groups in recent years, with protesters struggling the continent. The organization was one of 20 people this week to sign an open letter calling for action to combat the impacts of massive tourism. Pele told the mirror: “As tourists come, things start to come. We're starting to have the same issues as last year. Our organization is coordinating these protests. It's a platform with other local groups.
In recent years, protests have been sparking across Europe as the tourism industry continues to fight the devastation of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Issues like tense public services, anti-social behaviour and rising property prices are all upset by the massive influx of holiday people, campaigners argue.
Pele added: “The demand for mass tourism means the consumption of water, energy, food and land that limits Mallorca.
“The other problem is housing. Prices have risen significantly. Many people are currently using their homes for tourism. Many foreigners are buying Mallorca homes without restrictions.
Pere believes that despite his organization and others like them received within the international media and tourism industry, there was a positive response as a result of their campaign.
He said: “In this kind of protest, we're getting something good because of the discussions we created. When I was a kid, within 15 years, when I went to the beach or the local market, it was different.
“Now, many local markets are focused on tourists. In some spaces and certain beaches, it's impossible to park your car or spend the day.
“Tourists are changing our lifestyles. Some people live by being pushed out into caravans.”
The campaign group is believed to behave similarly to what was seen a year ago when beaches, hotels and popular tourist restaurants were targeted by protesters.
