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.
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Tourist Targeted in Barcelona
- Claudia, an Australian tourist, encountered anti-tourist sentiment in Barcelona's Gracia district.
- Locals squirted her with water pistols and screamed at her and other tourists dining.
Residents Asserting Their Rights
- Sebastian Zenker clarifies that residents' actions in tourist destinations aren't "nasty" but rather assertions of their rights.
- They're struggling to maintain their daily lives amidst the overwhelming influx of tourists.
Airbnb’s Impact on Housing
- Airbnb, initially intended for resident-friendly room rentals, transformed into a massive business of full apartment rentals.
- This shift contributed to rising rents, pricing out locals, including those working in the tourism sector.