Mallorca’s Calviá beach region, known for its appealing seafront hotels, has drawn significant attention from British tourists, with 3.5 million UK visitors reported last year. However, the resort is often contrasted with its more infamous reputation as Magaluf, a destination characterized by its nightlife and drinking culture. This duality has placed Mallorca at the center of the ongoing debate regarding overtourism and its impacts.
Recently, Calviá hosted the annual Abta convention, where discussions on handling overtourism were prevalent. Attendees encountered the nightlife scene with various promotions and bar offers, despite local regulations against public drunkenness and other behaviors. Officials have imposed fines for violations as a strategy to manage the behavior of tourists. However, there are mixed feelings about whether these measures are effective, especially during peak hours.
Amid these discussions, locals have expressed their concerns about the overwhelming numbers of tourists. Protests against overtourism have taken place, highlighting residents’ desire for a more sustainable tourism model that benefits both visitors and local communities. Some officials propose diversification efforts in tourism offerings, encouraging visitors to explore less traveled areas and engage in activities such as agrotourism.
The tourism sector is examining its future strategies. Industry leaders suggest that there might be a shift toward attracting higher-spending tourists rather than simply increasing visitor numbers. Concerns have arisen regarding how such changes might exclude more budget-conscious travelers.
Despite the challenges posed by overtourism, initiatives are underway to improve the local experience and enhance accommodations. A significant portion of Calviá’s hotels now meet higher quality standards, and investment in beach areas aims to rejuvenate the destination’s appeal. However, balancing the benefits of tourism against local sentiments remains a complex issue, as residents and industry stakeholders navigate the evolving landscape.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/10/mallorca-finds-itself-central-to-debate-on-overtourism-dividing-abta-convention-travel