Drunken tourism: a European problem
In the debate over the tourism model for Barcelona it is advisable to tread carefully and not put everything in the same sack. The protests that started in Barceloneta have served as a catalyst, and, as will be seen in today's demonstration, other platforms and neighborhood associations have joined in suggesting that the whole tourism model should be scrapped. Without a doubt it is a debate that must take place, but with a serious approach and reasoned alternatives. The visceral reactions in this case could have counterproductive effects on the image and economy of Barcelona, a city that depends in large measure on this sector.
Two factors have played a key role in sparking the conflict in Barceloneta: a lack of control over tourist accommodations and the uncivil behavior of these tourists. Today this newspaper is focusing on the latter aspect, because this is without doubt one of the principal reasons for citizen complaints --here in Barcelona, but also in Berlin, Brussels, Lloret, Salou, and Calvià. It is a European, and surely global, problem, that goes beyond a purely tourism phenomenon, because many of the visitors who cause problems, which are not all tourists, have the same pattern of leisure at home centered on the disproportionate consumption of alcohol. This is especially true in countries like Great Britain, where binge drinking has become a serious social problem. The loss of control becomes even worse when highly alcoholic drinks at low prices are combined with the possibility of enjoying them far from home thanks to lower travel costs.
Every coastal city or locality tries to combat the problem with different measures, including increased policing, penalties, or the regulation of opening hours. Some places, such as Lloret, have managed to reduce the impact; others, like Magaluf, have failed. For the moment, Barcelona has opted for warnings first, followed by penalties if needed, but the current conflict in Barcelona could serve to toughen this approach in order to appease citizen discontent. It will be important to listen to the neighbors, but also to all of the specialists involved, so that the solution, if one is found, will be long lasting.
