Locals Protest in Spain's Popular City to Combat Over-Tourism

Thousands of people protested in Barcelona against over-tourism, echoing similar demonstrations in the Canary Islands and Mallorca. Approximately 3,000 individuals took to the streets representing over 150 organizations and social movements. Protesters expressed their frustration by shouting "tourists, go home" and symbolically sealing off hotels and restaurant terraces.

The activists demand measures to curb tourism before the summer season, which is expected to break records in both Barcelona and the wider Catalonia region. Marti Cuso, a spokesperson for the Association of Neighbours of the Gothic Quarter, states the need to prioritize fairer economic models over tourism.

Barcelona, Spain's most visited city, struggles with the influx of 32 million visitors annually, many arriving on cruise ships. In response, the city council voted to increase the tourist tax to €4 per person starting in October. This measure aims to address the housing crisis exacerbated by tourism and speculation, ensuring locals have access to decent housing.

Additionally, Barcelona plans to eliminate around 10,000 tourist flat licenses within the next five years.