Is Costa del Sol Anti-tourist?

The Sunny Dilemma: Tourism and Its Impact on the Costa del Sol

In the wake of protests in Barcelona and the Canary Islands, you may be wondering whether you should still travel to the Costa del Sol. Are locals attacking tourists? Rest assured, tourists are still welcome in the Costa del Sol and you will have a wonderful stay, with negative experiences few and far between.

Let’s chat about the Costa del Sol – a slice of paradise in southern Spain with long stretches of beaches, tantalizing cuisine, and plenty of sunshine. Sounds dreamy, right? But recently, Spain has been grappling with a bit of an identity crisis. On one hand, tourism is its lifeblood, yet on the other, it's becoming a thorn in the side for many locals. So, let's dive into what's really going on.

Tourism's Golden Goose

First, let's acknowledge that tourism is a huge industry for Spain. In 2019, the tourism sector contributed a staggering 12.4% to the country's GDP!

The Costa del Sol, with its 320 days of sunshine a year, is a major player, drawing in millions of visitors annually.

In 2023, the Costa del Sol welcomed approximately 13.5 million tourists. This figure reflects the region's ongoing popularity as a prime destination for sun, culture, and relaxation on Spain's southern coast.

It's not just about the sun and sand, though – the region is a treasure trove of culture, history, and culinary delights.

Rising Costs and Living Woes

Here's where the sunny skies start to cloud over. The influx of tourists has driven up the cost of living in the region, especially rent. Companies like Airbnb have made it super easy for homeowners to rent out their properties to vacationers rather than locals. This has caused a significant rise in rental prices. In 2023, the average rent in Málaga, the heart of the Costa del Sol, shot up by around 10% compared to the previous year.

For perspective, the average salary in the Costa del Sol is about €20,000 a year, and those working in the hospitality industry earn an average of €1000 - 1400 a month. Considering that the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can be over €900 a month, it’s easy to see why locals are feeling the pinch.

Many are being priced out of their neighbourhoods, and it's not just rent – the overall cost of living: food, petrol and eating out has been rising too.

As of 2024, it's estimated that around 20-25% of holiday rental properties in the Costa del Sol are owned by investment funds or corporations. This significant portion of corporate ownership contributes to the increasing rental prices and availability issues for long-term residents, as these entities prioritize short-term vacation rentals for higher returns.

Locals Push Back

Understandably, this has led to some friction. Over the past few years, there have been protests against the surge of tourism and the impact of short-term rentals. Banners with "Tourists go home" and "The city is not for sale" have become a common sight in some parts of Málaga. It's a clear signal that while the economic benefits of tourism are appreciated, the social costs are starting to take their toll.

What You Can Do: Travel Responsibly

So, what can we, as responsible tourists, do to help ease the situation? Here are a few tips to minimize our impact and give back to the local community:

Avoid Airbnb: Instead of booking an Airbnb, consider staying in locally-owned hotels or guest houses. This helps ensure that more of your money goes directly to the community rather than into the pockets of big corporations or absentee landlords.
Shop Local: Skip the big supermarkets and head to local markets and shops. Buying locally produced "kilometre zero" products supports farmers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods.
Support Small Businesses: When it comes to dining out or booking tours and activities, choose small, locally-owned businesses. This not only provides you with a more authentic experience but also helps the local economy.
Be Respectful: Remember that the Costa del Sol is home to many people. Be mindful of local customs and traditions, and try to blend in rather than stand out. Simple gestures of respect can go a long way.
Use Public Transport: Instead of renting a car, use public transportation. It’s a great way to reduce traffic congestion and pollution, plus you’ll get to experience the region like a local.

The Bottom Line

Tourism is a double-edged sword for the Costa del Sol. It brings economic prosperity, but also significant challenges for those who call this beautiful region home. Locals are not angry at tourists as such, but at corporations and investment companies that are making the cost of living soar.

By being mindful of our impact and making conscious choices, we can help ensure that this sunny paradise remains a welcoming place for both locals and visitors alike. So, next time you pack your bags for the Costa del Sol, remember – a little consideration goes a long way.

Happy travels, and let’s make a positive impact together!