Carlos Tarife, deputy mayor of Santa Cruz, the capital of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, has made a bold statement urging British tourists looking for cheap all-inclusive sunshine breaks to consider exploring alternative destinations in the Caribbean. His comments follow a series of protests against the surge in tourism and its negative effects on the islands. Tarife expressed his disapproval of tourists who prefer to stay within the confines of their hotels, wearing mandatory wristbands that limit their interactions with the local community. He believes that these all-inclusive resorts cater to a type of tourism that is not beneficial to the Canary Islands. Tarife advocates for a shift towards five-star and five-star plus hotels that offer a higher standard of accommodation and encourage guests to venture out and experience the local culture. He emphasizes that this type of tourism aligns better with the islands’ aspirations and provides a more sustainable and enriching experience for visitors. During the recent protests, demonstrators held up banners expressing their frustrations and calling for a moratorium on tourism. They argued that the influx of tourists has led to strain on local resources, environmental degradation, and a decline in the quality of life for residents. The protests highlighted the urgent need for a change in tourism policies and practices. Tarife’s remarks reflect the growing concerns over mass tourism and its negative consequences on the Canary Islands. He believes that a transition towards higher-quality tourism can help mitigate these issues and contribute to the long-term sustainability and well-being of the islands and its people.
Tenerife Politician Urges British Tourists to Seek Alternative Destinations for All-Inclusive Breaks
