Spain: Wealthy tourists discover Mallorca

Luxury tourism is booming on Mallorca, but it's straining the island’s resources. Geographer Celso Garcia shows how water consumption skyrockets in upscale areas due to pools and non-native gardens.

While mass tourismis less wasteful, the sheer volume of visitors is overwhelming. Locals are calling for limits on rental cars and illegal holiday apartments. Fashion designer Aida Quetglas Colom, despite winning awards, struggles with high living costs and limited opportunities. She, like many others, supports curbing tourism — even if it means fewer customers. The island’s future hangs in the balance between economic dependence and environmental survival.

(This video summary was created using AI. A journalist edited it before publication.)