Demonstrators employed water guns against visitors in Barcelona and on the Spanish island of Mallorca during protests on June 15, calling for a reevaluation of an economic model they argue is exacerbating a housing crisis.
These protests were part of a unified initiative by activists concerned about the impact of overtourism in Europe. While several thousand participated in Mallorca, hundreds more assembled in various other Spanish cities, as well as in Venice, Italy, and Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.
"The squirt guns are meant to irritate the tourists a bit," Andreu Martínez remarked in Barcelona. "Barcelona has been given over to the tourists. This is a battle to return Barcelona to its residents."
Martínez is one of many locals who feel that tourism has gone too far in the city of 1.7 million, which hosted 15.5 million visitors last year. He claims that his rent has surged by more than 30% as more apartments in his neighbourhood are leased to tourists for short-term rentals.
Around 5,000 people gathered in Palma, the capital of Mallorca, with some also carrying water guns and chanting, "Everywhere you look, all you see are tourists."
Cities around the globe are facing challenges due to mass tourism and the rise of short-term rental services, such as Airbnb. In Spain, there have been numerous protests both supporting housing and opposing tourism, especially considering the country welcomed a record 94 million international visitors in 2024.
Spanish officials are attempting to demonstrate their attentiveness while ensuring that they do not harm an industry that accounts for 12% of the gross domestic product.
Recently, the Spanish government instructed Airbnb to take down nearly 66,000 holiday rentals from its platform, citing violations of local regulations. Additionally, Barcelona has revealed intentions to revoke all 10,000 short-term rental licenses in the city by 2028.
Txema Escorsa, an educator based in Barcelona, not only stands against Airbnb in his hometown but also refrains from using it while travelling to other locations.
"In the end, you realise that this is taking away housing from people," he said.
READING COMPREHENSION
What was the primary tool used by demonstrators in Barcelona and Mallorca to protest against overtourism on June 15?
A) Smoke bombs
B) Water guns
C) Megaphones
D) Banners
Which economic issue did the protesters claim is being worsened by the current economic model in Europe?
A) Unemployment rate
B) Inflation
C) Housing crisis
D) Public transportation
Besides Spanish cities, in which other European cities did protests related to overtourism take place according to the text?
A) Paris and Rome
B) Venice and Lisbon
C) Berlin and Athens
D) Amsterdam and Prague
How did Andreu Martínez describe the impact of tourism on Barcelona?
A) Tourism has created many jobs for locals
B) Barcelona has become dominated by tourists
C) Tourists contribute to the cultural diversity
D) Tourism has little impact on housing
By approximately what percentage did Andreu Martínez claim his rent increased due to short-term rentals?
A) 15%
B) 25%
C) 30%
D) 50%
How many people approximately gathered in Palma, Mallorca, during the protests?
A) 1,000
B) 3,000
C) 5,000
D) 10,000
What percentage of Spain’s gross domestic product is accounted for by the tourism industry as mentioned in the text?
A) 8%
B) 10%
C) 12%
D) 15%
What action has the Spanish government taken against Airbnb to address housing and tourism concerns?
A) Banned Airbnb operations nationwide
B) Instructed Airbnb to remove nearly 66,000 holiday rentals
C) Limited Airbnb to only luxury properties
D) Partnered with Airbnb to promote tourism
SUMMARISE
In your own words, summarise the article.
VOCABULARY
Demonstrators (demənstreɪtəs) (Noun) - Demonstrators are individuals who participate in organised public gatherings or protests, typically aimed at expressing their views on social, political, or economic issues. These gatherings can take various forms, including marches, rallies, or sit-ins, and are often characterised by the display of signs, chants, and other forms of collective expression. The primary purpose of demonstrators is to raise awareness, advocate for change, or challenge existing policies or practices that they perceive as unjust or inadequate. Demonstrators may represent a wide range of causes, from civil rights and environmental issues to labour rights and political reform, and their actions are often protected under the right to free speech and assembly in democratic societies. The impact of demonstrators can be significant, as they can influence public opinion, attract media attention, and sometimes lead to legislative or social change.
E.g. I observed the police deploying tear gas in an attempt to disperse a gathering of demonstrators.
GDP (dʒiː diː pi) (Noun) - Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a comprehensive measure that reflects the total monetary value of all final goods and services produced within a country's borders over a specific time period, typically annually or quarterly. It serves as a critical indicator of a nation's economic performance, providing insights into the overall health and size of its economy. GDP encompasses various components, including consumption, investment, government spending, and net exports, which together illustrate the economic activities occurring within a country. By analysing GDP, economists and policymakers can assess economic growth, compare the economic performance of different nations, and make informed decisions regarding fiscal and monetary policies. Furthermore, GDP can be adjusted for inflation to yield real GDP, which offers a more accurate representation of an economy's growth by accounting for changes in price levels over time.
E,g, An increase in GDP often signifies growth and improved living standards.
Your turn: Please provide your own example using the words provided in the context of a full sentence.
DISCUSSION
• What is your opinion regarding the recent demonstrations opposing mass tourism in Spain?
• How would you respond if local residents were to spray you with water during your travels?
• What is your perspective on the assertion that short-term rentals, such as Airbnbs, deprive individuals of housing?
• Are there numerous Airbnbs or short-term rental options in your area?
• Have you experienced a location where tourists outnumbered the local population? In your answer, please consider the impact of such rentals on community dynamics and local culture.
• Are individuals in your town or city typically welcoming towards tourists?
• Have you ever experienced a sense of unwelcomeness while visiting a location?
• Are there any destinations you hesitate to visit due to the impact of overtourism?
• Do you frequently utilise short-term rentals during your travels?
• Which regions of your country are facing the greatest challenges due to overtourism?
• Are short-term rentals a common choice for you when traveling?
FINAL NOTE
In today’s global landscape, being able to communicate effectively in English can open doors to new opportunities, both personally and professionally. Whether you're preparing for a job interview, looking to connect with international colleagues, or simply want to feel more confident in conversations, my tailored English conversational classes are here to help.
Here’s what we offer:
- Customised Lessons: Focus on topics that matter most to you.
- Flexible Scheduling: Classes that fit your busy lifestyle, including weekends and evenings.
- Interactive Environment: Engage in real conversations.
Would you be open to a brief chat to discuss how we can support your language goals? I'm looking forward to the possibility of helping you achieve greater fluency and confidence in your English conversations!
If you have found value in this complimentary content, I kindly ask you to consider buying me a coffee.
Comments ()