'We live in Mallorca – here's how we really feel about tourists after protests'

Thousands across Spain have taken to the streets in recent months to protest against the tourism industry, but what do people in Mallorca really think of tourists?

Residents of Mallorca have opened up about their actual feelings regarding tourists following the "go home" protests across Spain this year.

Upheaval against the tourism sector is sweeping through Spain's popular holiday destinations, with thousands protesting throughout the mainland and the Balearic Islands. With signs and spray-painted messages declaring "tourist go home", locals are outraged by climbing rents linked to properties being snapped up for tourist rentals.

Andrew McVey, a Brit who has moved to Mallorca, hit the streets to gather opinions on the demonstrations, showcasing local reactions in a video on his YouTube channel, Loving Life Mallorca.

Marga, a hotel reception worker, shared her perspective with him: "We need it [tourism]. I work at the reception, I love guests. I love England too. And we are very happy that they are coming here [...] the tourists, we are living off them. We have to take care of them!"

Alex and Eric, both Palma-based students, told McVey they "like" having tourists on the island and acknowledged finding employment opportunities in the tourism sector.

Andrew also spoke to tourists themselves, asking Paul and Rita from Belfast about their sense of security on the island. Paul revealed: "We heard about it [the protests] from the press and were a wee bit worried before we came, but when we came here we found Palma to be grand. No problem. And at the resort, no problems there. There's not an issue."

Vlad and Cleo from Romania recounted their summer visit to Barcelona, which was markedly less pleasant than their time in Mallorca. Vlad expressed: "It was a bit harsh there. It was like, 'Get out of here', but people here are welcoming."

Alec from New York was also quizzed during his Palma trip, and was asked if he felt welcome. He responded: "Absolutely. Not one instance have we felt unwelcome. Everyone has been very hospitable and very kind."

Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.