An intriguing and captivating story emerges through the testimonies of expatriates on the Canary Islands. Beyond the heavenly landscapes and the bright sun, lies an unsuspected problem that shakes up dreams of escape and tranquility. Let’s discover together the little-known reality of this seemingly idyllic haven of peace…
Expatriates Share Their Discoveries of Life in the Canary Islands
Hello, I am Magalie, a 29-year-old web developer with a burning passion for travel, there tech and the manga. Today, let’s dive together into the Canary Islands, an archipelago often perceived as a true paradise. However, those who settle there reveal lesser known and sometimes surprising aspects of life on these islands.
A Paradise Under Pressure
The Canary Islands, with their dream beaches and pleasant climate all year round, attract more and more visitors andexpatriates. But behind this heavenly facade, certain challenges complicate life on these islands. Newcomers discover problems they had not anticipated, profoundly influencing their daily lives.
Demonstrations Against Mass Tourism
Recently, thousands of residents demonstrated their fed up with the‘overtourism’. They believe that the current tourism model makes life unbearable, especially with soaring housing costs. Signs reading “We don’t want to see our island die” and “No new hotels” reflect the feeling of saturation.
The Housing Nightmare
A bar owner in Tenerife highlights this problem well: the cost of a simple one-bedroom apartment has doubled. This situation is exacerbated by the transformation of long-term accommodation into vacation rentals via platforms like Airbnb. Result: expatriates and locals struggle to find affordable housing.
The Impact on Local Businesses
Local businesses are also facing difficulties. Low wages combined with high rents make it difficult to hire and retain staff. Employees coming from the Spanish mainland find themselves without affordable housing options. This affects their quality of life and, by extension, the functioning of businesses.
Call for Tourism Reform
Faced with these challenges, residents are calling for reform of the tourism model, including restrictions on short-term vacation rentals and measures to build more housing. Additionally, a proposal to impose a charge of €3 per night for tourists was discussed.
Reactions from Expats and Visitors
Despite the frustrations, many expatriates and business owners remain welcoming. They want to resolve these problems while maintaining good relations with tourists, vital to the archipelago’s economy.
The Canary Islands are at a crucial juncture, seeking to balance their popularity as a tourist destination while safeguarding the well-being of their residents and the local economy.
