Majorca issues 4-word message to tourists worried about protests sweeping Spain

The Majorcan tourist board has written an open letter ahead of the start of the summer season, amid concerns that holidaymakers may be put off from travelling to the sun-soaked island because of overtourism protests.

The letter reads: "Tourism has been, and continues to be, Mallorca’s main economic driver and the reason why the island has become one of the most prosperous regions in the country, achieving near full employment.

"No activity is without impact, and any negative effects must be addressed collectively—yet without demonising the sector as a whole. Public institutions, businesses, residents, and visitors all have a role to play in this effort."

The letter continues: "The Fomento [tourist board] will continue working towards improving our island for the benefit of both residents and visitors, striving for a harmonious coexistence.

"Finally, we wish our visitors a pleasant stay and hope they will want to return and repeat their experience."

The letter finishes with a four-word message for prospective tourists: "Our enduring message remains: a tourist, a friend".

There has already been an anti-tourism protest on the island this year. In April, locals took to the streets to bemoan the lack of housing, and call for reform to the tourist-driven property market.

In March, a coalition of groups themselves wrote an open letter to tourists. The group warned: "The greed and avarice of hoteliers, politicians, real estate investors, and ‘parasites’ of all kinds” have led to the deterioration of the island territory and ecosystem, infrastructure problems, overcrowded public services, gentrification, and the decline in quality of life. These are all the result of uncontrolled tourism.

"Mallorca is not the paradise they are selling you. The local population is angry, and we are no longer hospitable because the land we love is being destroyed, and many residents are having to emigrate.

"It’s time to take a step forward. Our leaders aren’t listening to us; it’s time to ask you NOT TO COME. We don’t need more tourists; in fact, you are the source of our problem."