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Backlash Against Tourism: Malaga Residents Urge Tourists to 'Go Home'

Kalyani Jha
25 Mar, 2024

The idyllic streets of Malaga, Spain, are witnessing a mounting rebellion against the burgeoning tourism industry as frustrated locals take a bold stand against what they perceive as the invasion of their neighborhoods and homes. In a striking display of discontent, stickers bearing powerful messages like 'stinks of tourists,' 'a family used to live here,' and 'before this was my house' are cropping up on buildings, particularly tourist apartments, across the city.

The growing chorus of discontent stems from the palpable disruptions caused by the influx of tourists, leading to a scarcity of affordable housing and soaring rental costs. Dani Drunko, a local bar owner, recounted his personal ordeal of being forced out of his ten-year residence as it was converted into a short-term holiday rental. His experience mirrors that of numerous residents who feel uprooted and marginalized by the rapid transformation of their neighborhoods into tourist hotspots.

Despite the campaign's momentum and the outpouring of support from residents, Drunko clarified that the issue lies not with tourists themselves but with the lack of housing regulation and the town hall's inaction in addressing the grievances of Malaga's residents. Local politician Dani Perez echoed these sentiments, lamenting the city's transformation and the neglect of its native inhabitants by authorities.

However, not everyone is in agreement with the campaign's tactics. Local lawyer Juan Luis Gomez criticized the movement, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that acknowledges the importance of tourism while addressing the concerns of residents. Gomez's remarks underscore the complex dynamics at play, where the economic benefits of tourism clash with the social and cultural impact on local communities.

Amidst this backdrop, Costa del Sol continues to attract a substantial number of tourists, including British holidaymakers, contributing to the region's tourism boom. With record numbers of visitors flocking to Malaga each year, the tension between tourism-driven economic growth and the preservation of local identity and livelihoods remains a pressing challenge for the city and its residents.