EPISODE · Jul 10, 2025 · 12 MIN
Why water pistols are being used to fight overtourism
from What in the World · host BBC World Service
Water pistols have become a symbol of resistance against overtourism in several cities around the world. This summer local residents in Barcelona, Spain, have been using them again to show their frustration at how mass tourism is impacting their city; from housing to overcrowding. BBC journalist Laura García joins us to explain why there is so much anger directed towards tourists, as well as host websites such as Airbnb. We also hear which strategies governments in Spain and elsewhere are adopting to deal with the issue. Plus, travel influencer Joy Malonza shares tips about how we can all be more conscientious travellers. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emilia Jansson and Mora Morrison Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Julia Ross-Roy
What this episode covers
Water pistols have become a symbol of resistance against overtourism in several cities around the world. This summer local residents in Barcelona, Spain, have been using them again to show their frustration at how mass tourism is impacting their city; from housing to overcrowding. BBC journalist Laura García joins us to explain why there is so much anger directed towards tourists, as well as host websites such as Airbnb. We also hear which strategies governments in Spain and elsewhere are adopting to deal with the issue. Plus, travel influencer Joy Malonza shares tips about how we can all be more conscientious travellers. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emilia Jansson and Mora Morrison Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Julia Ross-Roy
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Why water pistols are being used to fight overtourism
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