Complaints of Noise and Trash
"Even Entering Our Homes Is Difficult"
Protesting Against "Overtourism"
Residents of the famous Spanish tourist destination Ibiza island blocked tourist routes in protest against "overtourism."
On the 17th (local time), foreign media including the British daily The Times reported that thousands of Ibiza island residents protested overtourism by blocking the road to the Es Vedra viewpoint and the space used as a parking lot with rocks. Es Vedra is a small rocky island located on the west side of Ibiza island, known for its viewpoint that is always crowded with tourists trying to take photos.
Ibiza residents have often complained about excessive traffic, noisy parties, and trash left behind by tourists. However, it has been confirmed that local authorities have not imposed any restrictions on the daily weddings and parties held on the island. One resident said, "There are so many tourists that it has become difficult to enter and exit our homes," adding, "We took action to prevent the invasion of our space." Another resident also pointed out, "The island has long suffered from lobbying by the travel industry," calling it "a problem that should not be allowed." Authorities are reviewing related plans to establish a parking lot where cars can only be parked after purchasing tickets.
Meanwhile, residents across Europe, including Spain, are protesting environmental pollution and traffic congestion caused by overtourism. Venice, Italy, has been charging visitors an entrance fee to the city since last year, and the UK is considering introducing a tourism tax.
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