The hotel industry in Majorca is sending a clear message to British tourists: “Go home happy.” This surprising move comes as local residents have recently used the same phrase to protest the effects of mass tourism on the island. However, the hotels want visitors to know they are welcome—and that they hope tourists will return soon.
The Federation of Hotel Businesses in Majorca (FEHM) has put up billboards across the island. Unlike protests calling for tighter limits on holiday rentals and hotel construction, these signs aim to offer a warm send-off. Written in English and German, the two main languages of Majorca’s visitors, the signs say: “Tourist, go home happy. Be happier returning to Mallorca soon. Thanks!”
Though the island has seen fewer tourists from Germany and Spain this early summer, British tourists appear undeterred. In fact, they remain Majorca’s most loyal visitors. Tourism figures show a nine percent rise in British arrivals to Majorca and a six percent increase across the Balearic Islands overall.
Around 20 billboards with these messages have been placed strategically. The goal is to soften some of the tension caused by large protests that draw crowds demanding more tourism controls. These protests focus on short-term rentals and the building of hotels instead of homes.
Javier Vich, president of FEHM, views the billboards as a way to highlight a recent success for the local tourism sector. After a series of strikes and walkouts over pay, the industry achieved a “best in Spain” wage increase of 13.5 percent agreed upon with employers.
Vich explained the importance of tourism wages: “Every month during the high season, 235,000 salaries are paid in sectors linked to tourism. This includes transport, catering, culture, leisure, and hospitality.” He stressed that these salaries come directly from the income generated by tourists visiting the island.
Tourism is the backbone of Majorca’s economy. The message on the billboards tries to remind visitors of their vital role. Hotels want tourists to feel appreciated and encouraged to return. This effort is part of a broader campaign to rebuild goodwill after years of tension between local residents and visitors.
Mass tourism has created challenges for Majorca. Local protests highlight concerns about rising rents, environmental harm, and overdevelopment. Meanwhile, hotels seek to protect their businesses and support the many workers whose livelihoods depend on visitors.
Despite the divide, the hotel federation’s campaign tries to strike a positive tone. By welcoming tourists warmly while urging them to return “soon,” Majorca’s hotels aim to maintain the island’s reputation as a top travel destination.
British tourists have long been a major part of Majorca’s tourism scene. Their loyalty is seen as crucial to the island’s recovery after the disruptions caused by the pandemic and other global issues. This campaign helps underline that connection.
The FEHM’s signs send a message that goes beyond words. They show how important the tourism industry is for the island’s economy and community. The signs also remind tourists that they play a key role in Majorca’s future prosperity.
