Ibiza faces a historic decline in tourism that threatens its local economy.

This year, Ibiza, the jewel of the Mediterranean known for its idyllic beaches and vibrant nightlife, is facing an unusual tourism landscape. Despite its status as an iconic destination in the Balearic Islands, the influx of tourists has decreased significantly, posing serious challenges for the local economy. With over 150,000 residents who largely depend on tourism, the island is feeling the impact of this decline in visitors, raising alarms among business owners and merchants. Miguel Tur Costa, president of the Association of Bars, Restaurants, and Cafés of Ibiza and Formentera (Pimeef Restauración), has expressed his concern regarding this situation. He points out that while definitive tourism data is collected at the end of the season, the general impression is that there are fewer visitors on the island. This not only implies a reduction in the number of tourists but also lower spending by those who do arrive, which severely affects the revenue of local businesses. The factors contributing to this decline are varied. Tur mentions the extreme rise in temperatures, which could deter some tourists from visiting the island in the height of summer. Additionally, major sporting events, such as the Euro Cup and the Olympics, have diverted potential visitors' attention to other options. Even more alarming is the effect of inflation and high interest rates, which have diminished families' purchasing power, leading many to reconsider their vacation plans. The hospitality and commercial sector in Ibiza, which traditionally benefits from a steady flow of tourists during the summer, has experienced a worrying drop in occupancy and sales. The situation is critical for many self-employed individuals and business owners on the island, who rely on the income generated during the high season to keep their businesses afloat for the rest of the year. This decline in commercial activity has left many in a state of financial uncertainty not seen in years. The comparison with the previous season further highlights the seriousness of the situation. While last year saw record numbers in terms of visitors and revenue, this season presents a return to normalcy, leading to a widespread sense of failure. Tur calls for an objective evaluation at the end of the summer, although he acknowledges that certain structural issues, such as encroachment and illegal offerings in the tourism sector, must be addressed to improve market conditions. In this context, Miguel Tur, who is in his first year as president of Pimeef Restauración, has several key projects in mind. Among them is the implementation of digital invoicing, which aims to require establishments to adapt to new regulations and improve transparency in the sector. However, he also faces the controversial proposal from the government to reduce the working day, a measure that has generated resistance among business owners. Tur also advocates for stricter regulation and better control of the tourist offering. The elimination of illegal offerings is seen as a crucial step to level the playing field and allow legitimate businesses to thrive. Adapting to the new market realities will be vital for Ibiza to regain its appeal and competitiveness as a tourist destination. Despite the difficulties it faces, Ibiza remains an attractive place due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and dreamlike beaches. However, to ensure its long-term sustainability, it is essential to implement changes and adjust expectations. Collaboration between the public and private sectors will be key to overcoming this crisis and revitalizing the island's tourism industry. The decline of tourism in Ibiza is undoubtedly a complex phenomenon that reflects an intersection of economic, social, and climatic factors. Although the path to recovery may be challenging, the commitment of local leaders and the business community will be essential to tackle these obstacles and build a more resilient future for the island. The story of Ibiza is not over yet, and the ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial for the revival of this benchmark tourist destination.