TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Spain is one of the most popular summer destinations in the world. Despite frequent protests from the locals, it does not deter tourists from visiting Spain.
According to the latest data as reported by Travel+Leisure, Spain had 17 million visitors in the first quarter of 2025 alone. This number is a 5.7 percent increase compared to last year. With the population of Spain being only around 50 million people, it's no wonder that the large volume of visitors is disturbing for the locals.
In contrast to other countries that welcome the increase in tourists, major cities in Spain have had the opposite reaction. They openly reject tourists with extreme actions and large protests, as seen in Barcelona. Recently, some historic buildings in Mallorca, Palma, have also become targets of protests rejecting tourists.
Most of the rejection stems from the way tourists visit these cities. For example, the high number of short-term rentals makes it difficult for locals to find properties and transforms once quiet streets into party locations. The increasing daily influx of cruise ships also floods popular areas and congests public transportation, as reported by Euro News.
In addition to the rejection by residents, there have been other issues in Spain. One of these is the mass power outage at the end of April 2025, which affected public transportation, hospitals, and other facilities. Not to mention criminal activity like the theft of mainline rail cables in early May, leaving thousands stranded.
If you want a trip to Spain for the summer holiday this year, here are some tips to consider, including avoiding the crowds.
1. Book in Advance
Consider booking for the next summer season. Currently, it will be priced too high and will become limited. However, if you already have tickets and hotel reservations, do not forget to reserve restaurants, attractions, transportation, and museums before entering Spanish soil.
2. Prepare for Crowds
If your destination is one of the most popular cities in Spain, it will undoubtedly be crowded. Therefore, it will be easier to avoid the crowds by making reservations and bookings in advance. Day trips to smaller and less popular destinations are another good option.
3. Travel Responsibly
The weather will certainly be hot and crowded, far from your expectations. Transportation problems and protests can arise at any time. During the trip, it is best to remain vigilant. Keep all valuables in a safe place, set a realistic budget, adhere to government regulations, check travel advisories before departure, drink plenty of water, and wear sunscreen. Don't forget to remain friendly to the residents and anyone who has served and helped during your trip.
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