British tourists currently on holiday in Tenerife, one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, have been cautioned following a series of recent violent incidents targeting tourism-related properties. Local activists and residents have expressed growing frustration regarding the impact of mass tourism, leading to what has been described as an “uncommon” trend of aggressive actions against tourists and their property.

Recent reports highlight that multiple acts of vandalism have occurred in the southern region of Tenerife, including a viral video showing individuals smashing windows and setting fire to rental cars belonging to the Canarian car rental company Cicar. Activist groups have circulated this footage online, emphasising the sense of urgency felt by the local community. One post accompanying the video stated, “We have received a video from Canarian activists, fed up with mass tourism, overcrowding in their neighbourhoods, and the lack of distribution of the ‘supposed wealth generated by tourism.’”

National Police are currently investigating the incidents, which involved damage to approximately twenty rental vehicles. Roberto Mesa, an activist who has voiced his concerns on social media, noted that these actions follow a trend of increasing discontent among residents who feel their peaceful protests against tourism have largely been overlooked. “The ‘peaceful’ avenues have been exhausted,” Mesa remarked, although he clarified that he is not directly connected to the recent acts of vandalism.

In recent weeks, Mesa highlighted three actions that are unusual for the Canary Islands, suggesting a turning point in local sentiment. Additionally, the Tenerife employers’ association, CEOE, previously reported incidents of arson—including the burning of construction machinery related to the contentious Cuna del Alma project—indicating a pattern of violent responses associated with anti-tourism sentiment.

Activists have also encountered increasingly aggressive graffiti targeting tourists, with slogans suggesting drastic measures. One of the latest acts of vandalism reportedly occurred in the early hours of March 5, specifically in a parking lot frequented by several car rental companies in Costa Adeje.

The sentiment expressed by protesting locals reflects their frustrations regarding the overwhelming presence of visitors, with one activist stating, “We have nowhere to park, nor anywhere to live in peace. We don’t need more roads, just fewer rental cars.” Mesa further noted that the Canary Islands have one of the highest ratios of cars per capita, remarking, “The Canary Islands, as a country, would rank seventh in the world in terms of the number of cars.” He cautioned that without significant changes, conditions might deteriorate further.

As the investigation continues, local authorities and stakeholders are likely to assess the implications of these incidents for the tourism industry in Tenerife and the broader societal impacts on the island.

Source: Noah Wire Services