Canary Islands locals protest against tiny town turning into party hotspot

Posted by author October 14, 2024 Travel

Residents of Palm Mar are voicing their frustrations over a dramatic increase in noise and unruly behavior.

This shift is allegedly due to the opening of a nearby aparthotel, which has drawn holidaymakers and transformed the area into a party hotspot.

Local residents complain that “botellones” (open-air drinking parties) have become a nightly disturbance, with street drinking, fights, and loud parties lasting into the early morning hours, according to Canarian Weekly.

What was originally intended to be a quiet residential area, according to the community’s urban planning documents, has begun to mirror Veronicas, Playa Las Americas’ well-known party district.

The rise in trash and disorder has led locals to feel as though they are “forced” to endure chaos outside their homes.

Residents also argue that this change goes against the neighborhood’s intended character.

The local government confirmed the aparthotel operates on land zoned for collective housing, but this technicality has done little to soothe frustrations.

Many believe that the influx of tourists has altered Palm Mar’s tranquil environment.

They are also are calling on officials to take action to restore peace and preserve the area’s residential nature.

This comes with UK holidaymakers being urged to keep the Canary Islands on their travel radar – despite rising tensions and anti-tourist protests sweeping across popular destinations like Tenerife.

Some critics have warned unless the influx of tourists to the Canaries is curbed, the region could face a “systemic collapse”.