Authorities in the Balearic Islands, Spain, have decided to cease using social media influencers for promoting tourism, as it has led to overtourism issues like overcrowding and environmental degradation. Initially intended to direct visitors to lesser-known areas, the strategy has backfired, exemplified by the overcrowding at sites like Calo des Moro which can only accommodate 100 people but has seen thousands flocking there. The situation mirrors global trends where influencer promotions have resulted in complaints and restrictions from locales suffering from tourism's adverse effects.
In an attempt to quell the effects of overtourism, the Balearics thought influencers could divert visitors, but this has led to overloading remote areas instead.
Calo des Moro's capacity of 100 was overwhelmed with 4,000 visitors after being promoted by an influencer, leading to local authorities removing its images online.
The backlash against influencers is global, with Bali and Vermont also taking measures to combat tourism's negative impacts on their local environments.
The Balearic authorities have decided to stop using influencers to promote destinations since selfie tourism has contradicted their policies to manage tourism.
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