Overview

• Speaking at ABTA’s convention in Mallorca, CEO Steve Heapy said Spanish officials “basically want rich people” under the new tourism focus.
• Heapy insisted holidays “should be for everyone,” warning against policies that make trips feel reserved for the wealthy.
• He blamed unregulated short‑term lets for management problems and urged fines up to €250,000 for unlicensed hosts, with jail if penalties go unpaid.
• He argued visitor flows are easier to control when tourists stay in hotels because authorities can track numbers.
• He cited UK customer queries about safety and welcome in Spain as the country promotes slower, higher‑spend trips through its ‘Think you know Spain? Think again’ campaign.