New rules of conduct have been introduced on the popular holiday island of Mallorca, aimed at encouraging a more respectful approach to the destination. The recently passed regulation imposes strict penalties for violators, especially for those who want to use the island for wild party vacations.
The latest regulation, initiated by Jaime Martínez, the mayor of the capital Palma on the popular holiday island of Mallorca, aims to reduce excessive drinking, vandalism and improve the image of the island. The new action plan is intended in particular to curb the consumption of alcohol and drugs by prohibiting their consumption in public places, streets, bars and transport. The traditional drinking parties known as "botellones" are also a thing of the past. In addition, acts of vandalism are punished more severely and the use of loudspeakers, loud instruments and similar devices is prohibited under the new code of conduct. People who relieve themselves in public face severe penalties. In addition, the street sale of food, drinks and other products is now prohibited.
More police presence and high penalties
According to city regulations, violations can result in severe penalties of up to 3,000 euros. At the same time, the police presence at the party hotspots will be increased, for which an additional 300 new police officers will be deployed. These measures are intended to change the image of the largest Balearic island, which has repeatedly suffered from problems with excessive alcohol consumption and riots in the past. With this action plan, the island government aims to guarantee tourists a “first-class destination based on mutual respect between residents and visitors”. Particular attention is paid to Playa de Palma, which is particularly popular with partygoers.
Situation in Tenerife equally tense
Many residents of the popular Canary Island of Tenerife also express dissatisfaction with the way tourists are treated on the island. Activists are therefore calling for more consistent enforcement of the rules by the authorities and the introduction of a so-called tourist tax. A central reason for the dissatisfaction of many locals are economic problems that can be traced back to the increased cost of living caused by tourism. The environmental impact, particularly the increased water consumption in holiday areas compared to residential areas, is also criticized, as water is a scarce resource on the island. However, the possible consequences of the local protests remain unclear.