New research has found that the Canary Islands are the top holiday choice for influencers this year – and millions of holidaymakers are expected to follow despite complaints from residents about overtourism. Locals and residents have been complaining about an overwhelming number of tourists flooding the islands – and some have warned visitors to “stay away”.
Urban planning specialists claim that tourism means the Canaries are on the “brink of collapse” while an expat told the Daily Star that it’s caused an causing serious issues for locals even outside of peak seasons.
One Tenerife local argued that it’s a lack of infrastructure causing the area’s downfall – from congested roads to concentrated residential areas and not enough roads. Meanwhile, protestors have caused further chaos by blocking roads and thoroughfares.
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Despite this, data from influencer analytics platform, WeArisma, revealed that the Canary Islands are the most popular winter sun destination among influential social media sources worldwide which makes sense when they see temperatures in the 20s even in winter and are just a few hours away from the UK.
Influencer Emma Jane, magician Ben Hanlin and actress and easyJet Holidays ambassador Catherine Tyldesley are some of the well-known faces who have made it the most talked about winter sun destination among influencers for the second year running.
The most popular Canary Islands are Tenerife – which sees millions of visitors every year – along with Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. However, the Spanish archipelago’s smaller and quieter islands like Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro are also beautiful destinations for sun, sand and sea lovers.
Research that found the islands were the most popular choice among influencers looked at the number of influencers sharing content from the Canaries within the last year. The islands kept their position in the top spot after having been the most shared destination from 2022 to 2023 as well – and it’s easy to see why they’re so popular with holidaymakers.
There are a number of beautiful spots you can choose to stay in. Puerto de la Cruz, in the north of Tenerife, is famous for its seaview pool complex with swimming spots, lakes, gardens, terraces, restaurants and bars. The city is perhaps best known for its pitch black beaches which are made from the same rock as volcanoes. Tenerife certainly doesn’t have many cold days and reaches average highs of 28C in July and August.
Meanwhile, Castro Beach, in the north of Tenerife in the Canary Islands has dark sand, waterfalls and no crowds thanks to its hidden gem qualities and long walk to the beach. It’s often very quiet because it can only be reached through the protected area of the Rambla de Castro and the journey prevents too many tourists from packing into the beach.
Over on another island, Famara beach, also known as La Caleta de Famara, in Lanzarote, Canary Islands, ranked highly in a list of the world’s best beaches for its dark golden sand, wild surroundings and incredible waves for surfers. The beach is not only a great place for sunbathing and swimming, but is a striking place for walks and nature lovers. It sits at the base of the beautiful Risco de Famara cliffs – a volcanic formation that’s known for its numerous hiking, climbing and mountaineering paths.
After the Canary Islands, the most popular holiday destinations for influencers were Dubai, in the UAE, the Caribbean Islands, Morocco and India. Jenny Tsai, Founder and CEO of WeArisma, said: “From Paddy McGuinness relaxing in a pool in Dubai to Mille Mackintosh enjoying family time in Mauritius, celebrities and influencers love to share their winter sun snaps on social media. Two-fifths of all influencers who posted about winter sun from November to January are UK-based, showing a trend of escaping from our colder climates.
“Endorsement from influential sources plays a significant role in driving destination popularity, and the travel industry can leverage this – from tourism boards and travel operators to airlines and hotels. Whether it’s showcasing aspirational apartments and beautiful sights, or even providing practical recommendations and advice, social media is a hub for travel inspiration. It will therefore be interesting to see how the travel industry and influencers will help shape general consumer trends throughout the year.”
Unfortunately, it’s not just angry locals who might put Brits off a holiday to the Spanish archipelago. The cost of a Canaries holiday is shooting up. The price of staying in the Canary Island holiday hotspot is soaring for UK holidaymakers, according to new figures, which may come as a nasty surprise to British tourists who are used to snapping up a bargain on the Spanish islands. Back in 2013, a hotel room would set you back £52, but now the average cost is expected to be a whopping £109 per room.