The popular European holiday destination has seen a decline in bookings from British tourists amid protests from locals demanding that locals leave, but one country is reportedly benefiting. Hospitality bosses fear that the demonstrations are causing Britts on vacation abroad, and it is argued that, especially Tenerife, which has been affected by a decline in the number of visitors.
Thousands of protesters took them to the streets of the Canary Islands to express concern over tourism policy. As a result, the Tenerife Hotel Association has expressed concern about a decline in bookings on the island. Pedro Alfonso, chairman of Tenerife's Spanish Federation of Business Organizations (CEOE), highlighted a significant decline in hotel bookings at a press conference released its first quarter 2025 economic report.
Alfonso reported a “slump” in booking, as the tourism operator pointed out, warning that “every small collapse has an echo of trust.” He added, “If confidence is reduced, investment will cease.”
His comments came after the sector was hit by industrial action via Easter. Alfonso called for a return to “dialogue, trust, and common sense” and warned against turning collective negotiations into a “battlefield” as negotiations on the CEOE's collective agreement stall.
He denounced the union for not acknowledging what he called a “gesture of goodwill and commitment,” Birmingham Live reports.
“This isn't about making headlines,” he declared, adding instead, “it's about protecting the job.”
He continued to maintain hope for the “final moment” turnaround, which could coincide with the start of the British holiday maker's peak travel season.
Spain is facing challenges, but other destinations like Turkey are reportedly experiencing a surge in popularity among tourists.
Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Elsoy highlighted the surge in visitors from Russia, Germany and the UK, particularly, telling the influx of Turkey tourists. “Turkey has become the country with the highest number of early reservations in Germany,” he said.
“We aim to welcome over 7 million visitors this year from both Russia and Germany. Additionally, we expect 4.8 million visitors from the UK in 2025.”
He also keeps his eye on other popular holiday spots for the British, such as Greece, Cyprus, and Portugal, maintaining their appeal among holiday makers.
