Recent research has revealed a shift in attitude among Spaniards towards British holidaymakers. While there were anti-tourism demonstrations and clashes last summer, a new study by holiday company On the Beach shows that nearly 80% of residents now welcome UK tourists, with only seven percent still opposed.
The survey highlighted concerns among Spaniards about the impact of reduced tourism on their businesses and the overall economy. A significant portion of Spain’s economy relies on tourism, and many locals fear that their pubs, hotels, and shops have suffered damage due to past demonstrations.
Zoe Harris from On the Beach emphasized the importance of British tourists to Spanish communities and businesses. She noted that while there are frustrations with issues like rising rental costs from short-term lettings, the protests were not aimed at holidaymakers but at the authorities.
Despite Spain remaining a popular holiday destination, Turkey has surpassed the Canary Islands as the top choice for UK travelers. With concerns about the impact of anti-tourism protests on the travel sector, Spanish tourism officials are keen to convey that the majority of locals welcome tourists and that the protests were directed at the authorities rather than visitors.
During the peak of last summer’s unrest, there were reports of locals disrupting tourists’ activities, including spraying water guns at diners and blocking access to beaches. The head of the Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation criticized the protesters for their actions.