Backlash over Tourism Graffiti

A tourist's recent social media post in Barcelona has ignited a heated debate over the impact of mass tourism on local communities. The young woman expressed her "gratitude" for the city's "very warm welcome" while posing next to a graffiti sign that read "tourists go home." Her post quickly garnered over 400,000 likes, but it also drew sharp criticism from some residents who feel overwhelmed by the influx of visitors. Responses from locals varied, with some agreeing with the sentiment of the graffiti. One resident remarked, "As it should be," while another bluntly told the tourist to "go home." Many expressed frustration over the rising cost of living attributed to tourism, stating that locals can no longer afford to live in their own neighborhoods. Comments highlighted the negative effects of gentrification, with one user noting that "touristy places are pretty much unlivable for locals." Despite the backlash, a few defenders of the tourist emerged, arguing that the issue of housing should be addressed by the government rather than blaming visitors. One commenter pointed out that Spanish citizens also travel and utilize short-term rentals, suggesting that the problem is more complex than it appears. In response to growing concerns about tourism's impact, Barcelona's mayor announced plans to phase out short-term tourist rentals over the next five years, following widespread protests against the overwhelming presence of tourists in the city.