Irish travelers urged to exercise caution when visiting Canary Islands and other popular destinations during local protests

Mass protests have erupted on the Canary Islands and other popular Spanish holiday destinations as locals demand government action to address the negative impacts of tourism. The surge in tourist numbers and the rise of short-term holiday rentals have led to soaring housing prices, causing frustration among residents.

Protestors have taken to the streets with signs reading ‘Stop Hotels’ and ‘Canaries Not for Sale’, highlighting their concerns about overpopulation and the exploitation of natural spaces. The Canary Islands, consisting of eight different islands, have a population of 2.2 million people and welcomed nearly 14 million foreign visitors in 2023, a 13% increase from the previous year.

The Tenerife Association of Friends of Nature, a key organizer of the protests, emphasized the need to address issues such as illegal construction, excessive occupation of territory, and the abuse of holiday rentals. Despite the importance of tourism to the region’s economy, locals are calling for sustainable solutions to protect their communities and environment.

Canary Islands president Fernando Clavijo expressed concern over the protests but urged tourists not to cancel their holidays, emphasizing the significance of tourism revenue. Discussions are underway about implementing a €3-per-night charge for tourists, a proposal that remains open for debate.

While the Department of Foreign Affairs has not yet commented on the protests, they advise individuals to avoid demonstrations and follow local authorities’ guidance. The ongoing protests underscore the growing tensions between residents and the tourism industry, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to sustainable tourism development.