UK tourists travelling to Lanzarote and Tenerife issued warning if visiting after April 20

dailyrecord.co.uk:

UK holidaymakers heading to the Canary Islands this month have been warned of potential disruptions due to planned protests by locals and residents against tourism.On April 20, people are set to stage "historic" demonstrations in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and La Palma.The locals are protesting against what they believe is "overtourism" with the Daily Record reporting this week that residents of the Canary Islands are insisting on stricter rules and a tourist tax on holidaymakers who "drink cheap beer, lay in the sun and eat burgers and chips".However the president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, has called for "common sense", reminding everyone that tourism is the "main source of employment and wealth" for the local economy.He stressed that tourists "come to enjoy themselves, to spend a few days and to leave their money in the Canary Islands".

He also urged protesters to "be responsible in this action" as UK holidaymakers bring in millions in tourism every spring and summer, reports Birmingham Live.Asociación Tinerfeña de Amigos de la Naturaleza (ATAN), a Gran Canaria urban development group, said in a statement: "What we cannot do is attack our main source of employment and wealth, because that would be irresponsible" adding that people should show "common sense and calm."He continued: "The situation is alarming.

Despite the record increase in tourists, poverty continues to rise. The biodiversity and natural spaces of the islands are suffering unprecedented deterioration, while the search for housing has become an increasingly difficult task.Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as