British Tourists Remain Undeterred by Protests: Majorca Continues to Draw New Visitors Despite Rising Costs

The Balearic Islands, a renowned holiday destination in Spain, continue to attract large numbers of British tourists, despite the ongoing protests in Majorca regarding the rising cost of living and the negative impacts of mass tourism. The islands have long been a hotspot for British visitors, and despite recent social unrest, official figures reveal that British tourists are showing no signs of being deterred.

According to the latest data from the National Statistics Institute’s Frontur survey of tourist movements, overall tourism to the Balearic Islands showed a slight dip in May 2025, experiencing a 1.6% decrease compared to the same month in 2024. However, Majorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, saw a decrease of just 1% in tourist arrivals during this period, according to Majorca Daily Bulletin.

Interestingly, this decline in tourist numbers comes in the context of a rising number of German tourists to the region, who had previously shown an increase of about 10% in recent months. However, even the German market saw a downturn in May, with a 2% drop for the Balearic Islands and a slightly larger 2.3% decrease for Majorca specifically.

On the other hand, British visitors appear to be more undeterred by the ongoing protests. The UK market saw a 6% increase in visitors to the Balearics, bringing the total to 509,000 British tourists in May 2025. Specifically in Majorca, British visitors increased by 9%, reaching a total of 310,000 arrivals. This uptick stands in contrast to the declines seen in other markets, including Germany and within Spain itself.

The increase in British tourism is particularly notable given the context of a series of protests in Majorca and other European tourist destinations over the impact of mass tourism on local communities. These demonstrations, which have been gaining traction in popular tourist areas, are primarily driven by concerns over the skyrocketing cost of living, exacerbated by the influx of foreign tourists and the popularity of short-term vacation rentals. Protesters argue that the increase in holiday rentals, alongside a growing number of second homes owned by foreigners, is driving up accommodation prices and pushing local residents out of the housing market.

These protests have become increasingly vocal, with demonstrators voicing their frustrations in major cities across Europe. The protests in Majorca have been particularly intense, with large rallies taking place in Palma de Majorca, the capital of the island. In these demonstrations, locals have expressed their anger over the rising prices, with some even surrounding tourists and jeering at them as symbols of the growing disparity between locals and visitors.

In response to these concerns, authorities in Majorca and other cities in Spain have implemented several measures to address the housing crisis and limit the negative effects of mass tourism. These measures include raising the tourist tax and introducing new levies on rental cars, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of tourism and addressing the pressures placed on local infrastructure.

Majorca’s authorities are not alone in taking action. In Barcelona, a similar approach has been adopted, with plans to phase out 10,000 apartments currently licensed for short-term rentals by 2028. This initiative is designed to make more housing available for permanent residents, thereby addressing the growing housing crisis in the city. In addition, the Spanish government has been actively working to tackle the country’s housing challenges, proposing a variety of measures, such as a proposed 100% tax on property purchases by non-EU residents. This move aims to limit foreign investment in the housing market, which is seen as one of the key drivers of rising accommodation prices.

Despite these growing tensions, British tourists have continued to flock to Majorca and the Balearic Islands. The appeal of the islands is undeniable—offering stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide variety of activities that cater to travelers of all kinds. Majorca, in particular, remains a favorite destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure in a beautiful Mediterranean setting.

What is driving British tourists to continue visiting Majorca, even amid rising prices and protests? For many, the appeal of the island is clear. Majorca is known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and scenic landscapes, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a sunny escape. The island’s well-developed infrastructure also provides a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to more affordable options. This diversity in offerings makes Majorca an attractive option for a wide range of travelers, including those who may be looking to escape the rising costs of holidays elsewhere.

Additionally, Majorca is also home to a variety of cultural and historical attractions, from the medieval town of Alcúdia to the stunning Palma Cathedral. The island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, with visitors able to enjoy everything from hiking in the mountains to indulging in the vibrant nightlife of Palma. For British tourists, the relatively short flight time from the UK and the familiarity of the destination make it a convenient and appealing choice for a getaway.

Despite the protests, the economic impact of British tourism on Majorca cannot be overstated. The island’s tourism sector is a major contributor to its economy, with the arrival of international visitors bringing much-needed revenue to local businesses. Restaurants, hotels, tour operators, and local attractions rely heavily on the influx of tourists to maintain their operations. British visitors, in particular, represent a significant portion of this economic activity, with the UK being one of the largest sources of international tourists to the Balearic Islands.

In terms of visitor numbers, British tourists are a key demographic. As the statistics show, while the German market has experienced a downturn in recent months, the UK market has shown resilience, even in the face of protests and rising accommodation costs. This reflects a broader trend in the tourism industry, where some international visitors may be more resistant to the challenges faced by popular destinations like Majorca. Many British tourists are likely motivated by the fact that the island remains one of the most accessible and well-connected destinations in Europe, with numerous flights from the UK and affordable package deals available throughout the year.

In addition, many British tourists may be less sensitive to the rising costs in Majorca, as the island remains relatively affordable compared to other European destinations. While prices may have increased in recent years, Majorca still offers good value for money in terms of accommodations, dining, and entertainment. For those looking for a short break in a beautiful location, the island remains a top choice, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sunshine, the sea, and the vibrant atmosphere that Majorca is known for.

The Future of Tourism in Majorca and the Balearic Islands

Looking ahead, the future of tourism in Majorca and the Balearic Islands remains uncertain. As protests continue and the cost of living rises, local authorities will need to strike a delicate balance between supporting the tourism sector and addressing the concerns of local residents. The growing tension between the benefits of tourism and the challenges it poses for the local population is something that many other popular tourist destinations are also grappling with. In the future, it is likely that other cities and regions will adopt similar measures to manage the impact of mass tourism and ensure that local communities are not priced out of their own neighborhoods.

For British tourists, Majorca will likely remain a top destination for the foreseeable future. The island offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities that make it an attractive option for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. However, the rising costs and ongoing protests may encourage more travelers to seek out alternative destinations in the Mediterranean. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, Majorca and other popular tourist hotspots will need to find innovative solutions to ensure that both visitors and locals can coexist harmoniously in the face of growing pressures.

In conclusion, the Balearic Islands, and Majorca in particular, continue to be major draws for British tourists despite the rising costs and ongoing protests about the impact of tourism on the cost of living. The island’s unique charm and diverse offerings ensure its place as a top destination for many, but as the tourism landscape evolves, both the authorities and the local communities will need to find sustainable solutions to maintain this balance. Whether through increasing taxes, limiting short-term rentals, or focusing on promoting responsible tourism, the future of Majorca will depend on how it addresses these challenges moving forward. British tourists, however, seem undeterred for now, continuing to flock to the island for a sunny escape amidst the ongoing turmoil.

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