A travel expert has revealed the top two destinations Brits are most likely to flock to instead of Majorca amid ongoing conflicts regarding overtourism on the island.
Following anti-tourism protests over the Bank Holiday weekend, roughly 44 percent of people will now think twice before holidaying in Majorca, according to local news outlet the Majorca Daily Bulletin.
Roughly 15,000 Majorcans took to the streets of Palma to call for more affordable housing and fewer holiday homes, and more demonstrations are reportedly on the horizon to fight for a limit on the number of tourists allowed in the country.
Since Brits make up the second largest tourist population in Majorca, after Germans, the country may see a significant decrease in the number visiting this year because of the protests.
They may instead opt for two other sunny destinations, as revealed by Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital engagement at eurochange.
She told Express.co.uk: “It’s likely we’ll see tourists opting for alternative destinations such as Malta, which offers a similar vibe to Palma, with people-watching squares, relaxed bars and easy access to great beaches. Places like Cyprus are also likely to draw regular visitors to Majorca who might be looking for an alternative.
“It has a very similar climate and offers similar prices, with lots of package hotel options and resorts which are well connected from the UK, as well as Airbnbs and self-catering accommodation options. It also caters to families and couples, with miles of white beaches, as well as lots of beautiful mountain terrain for those who are keen hikers who might be attracted to Majorca.”
Despite the recent uproar against overcrowing in Majorca, not all locals are happy to see tourists choosing destinations such as Malta and Cyprus instead, which has left some resorts, including the popular Magaluf, “unusually quiet” for this time of year.
Some locals and businesses have expressed their worry about whether they will be able to make enough money this summer as tourism is their main source of income and a huge sector of the national economy.
Evans-Fisk said the protests “could certainly have a noticeable impact on the island’s vital tourism industry” as some of the main drivers of the economy reconsider visiting the country.
She added: “With fewer visitors during peak season, local businesses that rely on tourism are also likely to really suffer. We could see many popular bars, restaurants, hotels and resorts being forced to close their doors, which could cause long-lasting damage to the tourism industry in Majorca.
“Majorca’s economy is extremely dependent on tourism, so sustained deterrence of significant numbers of tourists could carry severe economic consequences for the island this summer”
Evans-Fisk suggested that authorities in Majorca could turn things around by focusing on sustainable tourism and community engagement efforts, but acknowledged this would be a “delicate balancing act”.
She explained: “One area which authorities could focus on is sustainable tourism. For example, promoting and implementing practices that prioritise environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and responsible resource management.
“Initiatives such as limiting overcrowding in popular destinations, promoting eco-friendly accommodations, and encouraging responsible behaviour from tourists will massively help by introducing stricter penalties for violations and increasing oversight in hotspots.
“Another focus area could be increasing community engagement efforts. By fostering open dialogues between the tourism industry, local communities and relevant stakeholders, a platform could be created for residents to voice their concerns and participate in the decision-making processes around local tourism.”
