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The popular island is experiencing a steep decline in visitors, reportedly leaving resorts and streets “completely dead”.
The popular island is experiencing a steep decline in visitors, reportedly leaving resorts and streets “completely dead”.
What is happening?
Spanish authorities are now appealing for tourists to return, acknowledging that recent anti-tourism protests have driven visitors away.
According to the Majorca Daily Bulletin, Miguel Perez-Marsa, head of the nightlife association, said the type of travellers Spain wants to attract are “being driven away” and choosing alternative destinations instead.
Protests Sparked by Housing Costs and Environmental Concerns
The backlash against mass tourism came from locals frustrated by rising housing costs and environmental degradation
Demonstrators took to the streets and beaches across the Balearic Islands, making headlines that appear to have impacted Spain’s image abroad.
Tour Guides Report a Significant Drop in Bookings
According to Express, Pedro Oliver, president of the College of Tour Guides, revealed a steep 20% drop in excursion bookings this summer.
He said the decline is reflected in both British, Italian and German tourists.
Negative Press Is Dissuading Tourists, Say Industry Leaders
Oliver warned that negative headlines are resonating internationally.
“If you generate negative news,” he said, “tourists opt for other destinations.”
Cruise Excursions Halved Due to Falling Demand
Biel Rosales, who heads the tour operator Proguies Turistics, said the number of excursions offered per cruise has dropped from around 30 to just 12–14.
He blamed “tourismphobia” and anti-tourist sentiment for the sharp decline.
Official Numbers Confirm Visitor Drop
Government data from May confirms a 1.6% decline in tourist arrivals to Spain.
While this dip includes visitors from various countries, UK travellers appear to be the most affected group, according to local tourism experts.
Tourists Taking Holidays Elsewhere
Biel Moragues, from Majorca’s taxi association, said tourists are changing their holiday plans and heading to destinations they feel are more welcoming.
Once-Bustling Resort Towns Now Quiet
Longtime resident Lesley Johnson, 66, who’s lived in Mallorca for over three decades, described how formerly lively tourist areas have emptied out.
Streets once packed with visitors by early evening are now “completely dead,” she told MailOnline.
Other Factors May Also Be Driving Tourism Decline
While protests are getting most of the blame, some believe other issues are at play.
Traffic congestion, price hikes, and reduced disposable income could all be contributing to fewer holiday bookings this year.
Some Insist Tourism Is Still Growing
Not everyone agrees there’s a downturn. Jordi Mora, president of the Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises of Majorca, claims the latest data shows a 5% growth in tourism, although he admits that’s down from 12% last year.
