Overview
- A Censuswide survey commissioned by On the Beach of 1,001 Spanish residents, including at least 250 in the Canary Islands, found 77% have no issue with tourists staying in hotels and only 7% oppose it.
- Eighty-five percent of respondents said Spain’s economy depends on tourism, and 69% said tourists are welcome in their community.
- Nearly two-thirds (65%) oppose short-term rentals such as Airbnb, identified as the main grievance behind recent demonstrations.
- Almost half (45%) believe local businesses, hotels, bars and shops have suffered because of the protests, according to the survey.
- On the Beach has rolled out Lord Kitchener–style “Tourists, Spain wants you” posters in Spain, the Canary Islands and the UK as Turkey reportedly overtakes the Canaries for UK holidaymakers ahead of the winter season.