The Sagrada Familia, the Ramblas, Park Güell… but additionally the crowds, the noise, and the prime lodging prices. With an ever-increasing inflow of tourists, Barcelona needs to study its tourism type, which has turn out to be a supply of hysteria a number of the citizens.
In step with the government, there are a median of 170,000 guests according to day, and tourism contributes to 13.5% of the Catalan capital’s GDP. On the other hand, in keeping with the newest municipal barometer, additionally it is the 3rd supply of outrage for its 1.6 million population.
Barcelona’s tourism has observed speedy and competitive building following the Covid-19 pandemic. In an indication of unease, graffiti and demonstrations with the message “Vacationers pass house” have higher in contemporary months in Barcelona because of overtourism. The town is going through file attendance, similar to the entire of Spain, which is the sector’s second-largest vacation spot after France, with 85.1 million world guests closing 12 months.
Ultimate week, a number of thousand other people protested in opposition to the group of the The usa’s Cup, a crusing race. This summer season, photographs appearing some demonstrators pointing water weapons at vacationers ended in robust condemnation from the government, who worry that anti-tourism sentiment may escalate into violence.
“Out of control” Construction
Mavens indicate that rents in Barcelona have higher by way of 68% previously ten years. Locals don’t seem to be in opposition to tourism, however they’re in opposition to out of control tourism.
To ease tensions, the mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, introduced in June his purpose to prohibit the condo of vacationer flats by way of the top of 2028. This measure may have an effect on 10,000 properties. On the other hand, the homeowners’ affiliation Apartur, outraged by way of what it considers a “disguised expropriation,” has promised to report a chain of appeals. It’s difficult a thousand million euros in reimbursement if the measure is showed.
“No Longer the Similar Lifestyles”
The municipality is keeping up its place in accordance with the specter of overtourism. Deputy Mayor Jordi Valls insists they should discover other methods to battle overtourism and diversify the economic system by way of growing different actions. On the other hand, many believe those efforts inadequate, particularly because the municipality helps the arguable mission of increasing Barcelona airport.
In step with Anna Torres Delgado, a professor within the Division of Geography on the College of Barcelona, the municipality wishes to handle overtourism by way of lowering or slowing down tourism and making an attempt to distribute it extra lightly over the years and territory. On the other hand, she believes tourism building methods must believe financial, social, and environmental signs.
