The OTA said the posters had been placed in “high footfall locations”, visible outside major airports in Spain and the Canary Islands.
The move follows a survey of Spanish residents, conducted by On The Beach, which found that more than three quarters (77%) said they had “no problem with tourists visiting hotels in the Canary Islands and Spain”, and only 7% said they were actually against tourists staying in hotels.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach, insisted: “Those taking part in the tourism protests are in the minority, and our posters are there to show Brits they’re not just welcome, they’re vital to the communities and businesses that rely on tourism.”
“The frustration we’ve seen on the streets isn’t directed at holidaymaker... We’ve heard that locals are struggling with rising rents and a lack of affordable homes, and they want their government to take action on housing.
“Tourism is not the enemy and communities across Spain and the Canary Islands want to welcome Brits with open arms. That’s why we’re standing with local businesses and residents to remind holidaymakers: Spain needs you, Spain wants you.”
What do you think? Have your clients been put off visiting Spain because of anti-tourism protests? Let us know your thoughts and comments below.
