UK tourists urged to make a change after tourism protests rock Europe

Brits have been given tips to improve their holiday experiences, with some pieces of advice also aiming to help the locals in popular holiday destinations.

In-demand locations across Europe have seen a rise in anti-tourism protests in recent years.

In islands and cities across Spain, locals have taken to the streets in huge numbers to protest against the soaring rental costs and congestion caused by tourism.

In some places, graffiti telling tourists to “go home” have emerged, as well as placards reading similar messages being used during marches and demonstrations by locals. 

As a result, Holiday Extras have offered advice to Brits who want to go abroad.

Firstly, they advise holidaymakers to pick destinations that aren’t suffering from overtourism.

They add: “In some destinations, local people are vocal and clear that they’d like fewer visitors. Other locations are crying out for the money and connections that visitors bring. So if you’re picking a holiday destination, do a little research beforehand as the best thing holidaymakers can do to avoid exacerbating this problem is choosing their destination with care.”

Secondly, Holiday Extras tells tourists to “be sensitive to local issues” and try to “understand the local grievances.”

One example they give is staying in a hotel rather than a rented home to prevent exacerbating the rental crisis in cities like Barcelona.

Holiday Extras adds that you should try and travel outside of peak times to help with congestion.

They said: “Water, power, and food can all become strained during high season. Consider visiting when places are quieter – you’ll have the streets, the bars, and the sights to yourself, and you’ll be putting less stress on local resources. (This can be a bit more difficult if you have kids to consider though – everyone understands that school holidays are when they are.)”

Finally, tourists are advised to try and live like the locals rather than staying in the confines of a resort.

Holiday Extras said: “Instead of staying in an all-inclusive resort, which will tempt you with unlimited food and drinks, try and stay somewhere independent or family-run. This might be in a district of the destination more popular with locals, giving you more opportunity to shop and dine with local businesses and support the economy.

“Take some time to learn about what the local community cares about, dress respectfully if you need to and move quietly through religious and other significant buildings.”