Menorca Village Referendum on Tourist Ban

A picturesque village in Menorca, often referred to as the 'Spanish Mykonos,' is facing a pivotal moment as residents prepare to vote on a referendum that could lead to a complete ban on tourists. The village, known for its charming narrow alleys and whitewashed homes, sees an influx of approximately 800,000 tourists annually, which has sparked complaints from locals about the disruption to their peace and privacy during the busy summer months. Residents have expressed their frustrations through social media, sharing images of tourists disrespecting private property, including one incident where a visitor was found lounging on a stairwell. The situation has raised alarms among local business owners, who fear that a total ban would jeopardize their livelihoods, as many depend on the tourist trade. Oscar Monge, President of the Community of Property Owners in Binibeca Vell, emphasized that while the community welcomes tourists, the current influx has become unsustainable. Monge criticized the island council for failing to regulate tourist access and for withdrawing financial support that helped manage the waste generated by visitors. He highlighted that a previous agreement allowed tourists to visit the village during specific hours, but the lack of enforcement has led to growing discontent among residents. The community is now at a crossroads, balancing the need for tourism with the desire to preserve their way of life and maintain the village's charm.