Spaniard warns against holidays in his homeland: “We are not an amusement park”

The reason for this is, among other things, the so-called "Tourist Go Home" protest from last year, in which demonstrations were held in several cities against overcrowding by tourists. The Reddit user explains that this is primarily due to inconsiderate behavior – such as bachelor parties, excessive drinking, or illegal accommodation.

The tone of the post is sharp but nuanced. "If you're not lying drunk on the street and screaming, welcome," it says. The appeal: be considerate, behave like a guest, not an intruder.

In addition to rules of conduct, safety and temperatures are also important. Anyone traveling to southern Spain in July or August needs to know what they're getting into. "If you come with children and there's no pool nearby, you're just being stupid," the Spaniard warns tourists.

Culinary and practical tips are also included – from warnings about tourist traps like bad paella to recommendations for local transport. Ultimately, his appeal remains clear: Spain is a beautiful country – but only if you travel there respectfully.

The Reddit user's warning hits a nerve – and resonates with the experiences of many expats. One of them is Daniel Efford, a Brit who has lived in Spain for almost four decades. In a TikTok video, he explains why many find their new life on the Mediterranean a failure: "Those who start out with vacation feelings lose sight of reality."

Daniel advises immersing yourself in real life before moving. "Talk to people, ask them what they recommend—and how they say it." The biggest mistake, he says, is viewing Spain through the lens of tourism.

• Higher tourist taxes: In the Balearic Islands, the overnight tax will rise to up to 5.85 euros per person per night. In Barcelona, ​​it is set to rise to 14.38 euros by the end of 2025. Children under 16 are exempt.
• Strict beach rules: In Gran Canaria, fines of up to 500 euros are possible for collecting shells, playing loud music, or smoking on the beach. Reserving sunbeds with towels is also prohibited in Mallorca.
• Alcohol sales restricted: In Mallorca and Ibiza, alcohol may no longer be sold between 9:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. – neither in shops nor from vending machines.
• Party boats banned: Parties on boats are no longer permitted within one nautical mile of certain zones in the Balearic Islands – a targeted step against excessive party tourism.