Majorca protesters will be fuming as tourists don't pay any attention to 'stay away' plea

Holiday bookings to the Balearic Islands have jumped by 20% in the past week compared to the previous seven days, and nearly 19.7% higher than the same period last year, according to the latest data from booking platform TravelgateX.

This surge in bookings comes despite increasing tensions over mass tourism, with local protests in Majorca and across Spain calling for stricter regulations and a shift towards sustainable tourism policies.

The Balearic Islands remain one of Spain’s most sought-after destinations, ranking fourth in total bookings over the past week with a 13.4% share. Andalusia (19.7%), Catalonia (16.2%), and the Canary Islands (15.4%) continue to attract the highest numbers of visitors.

Travel patterns suggest that tourists are planning their trips well in advance, with 35.4% of reservations made at least 90 days ahead. However, a significant portion—9.5%—were last-minute bookings, placed on the same day or just before departure.

Couples account for the largest share of bookings (49.7%), followed by solo travellers (22.4%). Most visitors are booking stays of two to five nights (48.9%), reflecting a trend of shorter, more frequent getaways.

In terms of nationality, Spanish tourists dominate with nearly half (49.9%) of all bookings. British travellers make up 22.6%, while North Americans and Germans each account for 3.8%. The UK remains a crucial market for Balearic tourism, despite concerns about economic uncertainty and post-Brexit travel restrictions.

The rise in bookings is likely to have angered locals after tensions over mass tourism boiled over across Spain in 2024. This was particularly the case in Majorca, where communities have staged protests against overcrowding, housing shortages, and environmental degradation linked to excessive tourism. The Balearics have faced mounting criticism for prioritising tourism over local needs, leading to demonstrations demanding stricter controls on visitor numbers.

Similar protests have erupted in Barcelona, the Canary Islands, and Málaga, where activists argue that tourism-driven rent hikes are forcing residents out of their homes. In response, local governments are implementing new measures, including limits on short-term holiday rentals and increased tourist taxes.

The Balearic government has recently introduced new tourist taxes and biometric data collection at airports to better monitor visitor numbers.

These changes, alongside broader European Union travel regulations, could alter the appeal of major Spanish destinations.

Higher costs, increased paperwork, and growing anti-tourism sentiment may push visitors toward less-crowded alternatives or more sustainable travel options.

Despite these challenges, the Balearic Islands continue to thrive as a top destination, demonstrating the enduring appeal of their stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural heritage. However, balancing tourism growth with local sustainability remains a pressing issue that will shape the future of travel in the region.