Espanjan Menorca toinen uhri ylikansoittumiselle
Binibeca Vell, a picturesque village on Menorca island in Spain’s Mediterranean Balearic Isles, has become a major tourist draw for its fairytale allure. Designed by Catalan architect Francisco Barba Corsini, the village’s sparkling turquoise waters and charming streets attract visitors from near and far.
However, the influx of tourists has become a source of irritation for the village’s 200 residents. Local residents’ association, led by Oscar Monge, has expressed concerns about the disrespectful behavior of some visitors. To address this issue, residents have decided to limit access to the village’s streets, allowing visitors only between 11:00 am and 8:00 pm, with a potential vote to ban visitors altogether on August 15th.
While many visitors appreciate the beauty of Binibeca Vell, residents like Monge emphasize the need for balance and regulation to protect the village’s charm and the residents’ quality of life. The Balearic Islands, including Menorca, have been facing challenges of overtourism, leading to debates on how to make tourism more compatible with the local community.
Local authorities have taken steps to address overtourism, including restrictions on alcohol sales and party boats in some towns. The regional government has set up a committee of experts to find long-term solutions for sustainable tourism in the archipelago.
As tourists continue to flock to the Balearic Isles, finding a balance between tourism and the residents’ lives remains a priority for the local community. The charm of Binibeca Vell and other attractions in the region highlight the importance of responsible tourism to preserve the natural paradise of the sunny coast of Spain.