Effects of overtourism, local government, and tourist behavior on residents’ perceptions in Alcúdia (Majorca, Spain)

Abstract

This study analyzes residents’ perceptions of overtourism in Alcúdia, a coastal and outdoor destination on the island of Majorca (Spain), and their effects on residents’ attitudes. Further, it analyzes the role of local government management and tourist behavior on the impact of overtourism. In the context of rapid and constant growth in tourism arrivals, a survey conducted in 2017 showed that residents mostly perceived the destination as overcrowded (65%), yet also as a good place to live (GPL) (57%); only 15% felt withdrawal, while about 35% supported reducing tourism in the high season. Results obtained through structural equation modelling show that overtourism significantly reduced perceptions of the destination as a good place to live, increased withdrawal, and strengthened attitudes towards reducing tourism in the high season. The relevance of both good management of the destination by the local government and positive tourist behavior were also highlighted as two contextual factors that reduced the negative effects of overtourism on residents’ attitudes and, as such, constitute key management tools to achieve a more sustainable destination.