In a surprising move this week, renowned American travel guide producer Fodor unveiled their annual ‘No List,’ which outlines destinations they advise against visiting in 2026. Among the places singled out for their struggles with overtourism was the Canary Islands, a popular spot for Brits seeking winter sun due to its favorable climate.
Despite its appeal, recent issues such as overtourism protests and airport delays have tarnished the islands’ reputation. With its pleasant weather, affordable living costs, and natural beauty, the question arises whether British tourists will reconsider their visits to the Canary Islands.
Personal experiences reflect the growing popularity of the Canary Islands, as highlighted by challenges encountered during a recent trip to Lanzarote. Booking accommodations proved difficult due to high demand, leading to increased prices and limited options, a departure from past visits during off-peak periods.
While enjoying a stay at Caybeach Sun in Playa Blanca, the impact of recent regulatory changes, such as restrictions on holiday rentals, was evident. The bustling atmosphere in popular areas like Playa Blanca indicated a surge in visitor numbers, creating concerns about the island’s sustainability and the well-being of its residents.
Reports of rising violent crime and thefts in the winter season further underscore the challenges faced by the Canary Islands. Local communities are feeling the strain of increased rents and property values, leading to demographic shifts and economic pressures on businesses.
As concerns grow over the islands’ sustainability and the impacts of mass tourism, travelers, particularly those averse to crowds, may need to reconsider their vacation plans. Alternatives like the Azores and Cape Verde are emerging as attractive options for those seeking a quieter escape from the tourist rush.
Have a travel story to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
