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ABC News Daily

2024 picks: Why Spain can’t stand tourists anymore

Dec 23, 2024
Sebastian Zenker, a tourism professor at the Copenhagen Business School, shares his expert insights on the rising tensions between locals and tourists in Spain. He discusses how overtourism is fueling frustration in popular cities like Barcelona, with residents feeling overwhelmed by massive tourist traffic. Zenker explores innovative local initiatives aiming to prioritize citizen needs, the significant impact of platforms like Airbnb on community dynamics, and vital strategies for easing pressure on these cherished destinations.
15:00

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Local resentment towards tourists in Barcelona has grown due to overtourism's impact on housing affordability and community spirit.
  • Cities are exploring strategies like demarketing campaigns and tourist caps to manage visitor numbers and prioritize residents' needs.

Deep dives

Rising Tensions Between Locals and Tourists

Locals in popular tourist destinations, such as Barcelona, are increasingly voicing their resentment towards the influx of tourists, as they express concerns over the impact on their daily lives. Reports show that residents feel overwhelmed by the number of visitors, leading to protests demanding tourists to leave. Many locals believe that the tourism industry has prioritized profit over the welfare of the community, making it difficult for them to afford housing and live comfortably. The City Council's plan to shut down holiday apartments by 2028 is a response to this growing discontent, aiming to restore balance and ensure that the city serves its citizens first.

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