Transport chaos, problems with access to the beaches of the island, the inability of taxis to meet the increased demand, at the same time, there are problems with the supply of drinking water. OUR Majorca, the island with the highest percentage of visitors in Europe, has reached its limits (if not already exceeded them). Calls to limit it mass tourism become more and more intense, as reported in a related article by Deutsche Welle. “This cannot continue,” the local government announced, which is even considering introducing measures to prevent the possibility of a collapse. Vacationers, instead of enjoying the tranquility of the island and the unique landscapes of Mallorca, as well as the picturesque towns of Deia and Vademosa, find themselves in a traffic jam while driving a car. Many popular destinations on the island are crowded with car rental agencies. And, of course, after the traffic jam, the grueling effort of finding a parking space. However, the situation often becomes dangerous, as emergency exits are often, as well as many roads are blocked due to a lack of parking spaces.

In the picturesque town of Deia, Mayor Luis Apestegia is sounding the alarm as thousands of holidaymakers flood the area. In Sa Foradada, where crowds of tourists come every night to watch the sunset, access can be described as… dangerous. A narrow road in the middle of a traffic jam can be a nightmare for everyone. “If we don’t find a solution soon, there will be a serious accident at some point,” says Mr. Apestegia.

Due to the lack of water in the area, some measures have been taken to avoid a complete lack of drinking water. Tankers are supplying the area due to a months-long drought that has left the wells empty. Owners are prohibited from filling their pools, as well as watering private gardens. The island’s government had earlier decided to impose a moratorium limiting the number of places for tourists to 430,000 people. In addition, only three cruise ships per day are now allowed to dock on the island. Due to measures taken during the pandemic in the previous two years, disputes over excessive levels of tourism have been temporarily frozen. However, this year the island will be crowded with visitors, according to DW. In July and August, the population of the island was at 100%. Neither the war in Ukraine, nor inflation, nor the mess with flights in Europe could stop the huge wave of tourists.

“After the virus restrictions were lifted, the need for rest was great,” says Maria Frontera, president of the Mallorcan hoteliers association. While the hoteliers are rubbing their hands, the local community is getting more and more dissatisfied. Environmental group Terraferida (Wounded Earth) launched the “SOS Residentes” campaign to draw attention to the fact that many locals are being oppressed by mass tourism. “Overcrowding goes beyond all limits,” emphasize the Terraferida environmentalists. “It’s time to strike back, or we’re done for.”