Lanzarote is gearing up for a promising winter tourism season, with forecasts predicting an average occupancy rate exceeding 80%, according to industry insiders.
In a recent statement, Héctor Pulido, Vice President of the Lanzarote Hotel and Tourism Association (ASOLAN), shared positive outlooks for the upcoming months.
"In some cases, and markets, we are slightly ahead of where we were last year," said Pulido, highlighting strong sales and growing customer confidence in choosing Lanzarote as their preferred holiday destination.
Several markets have shown improvement, though Pulido noted that the Spanish mainland market saw a significant decline during the summer. Visitor numbers from mainland Spain dropped by 25%, largely due to rising flight costs.
Pulido explained, "The increase in airfare prices led many people to choose alternative destinations. A round-trip ticket from the mainland to Lanzarote was around €400."
As for the upcoming protest against Lanzarote's tourism model, planned for October 20th in Puerto del Carmen, Pulido expressed a balanced view. "It's good that people express their opinions, but we ask that tourists' rights to enjoy their holidays are respected and that planned activities are not disrupted."
Even the mayor of Tías, José Juan Cruz, acknowledged the importance of tourism to the municipality and the island. While not explicitly taking sides in the tourism model debate, Cruz emphasised the need for ongoing development.
"I’m clear on where I stand with tourism. I know where we want to go, and the future will involve a third modernisation plan for Puerto del Carmen, and eventually a fourth, because we cannot afford to stand still."
All signs point to a positive winter season for Lanzarote, barring any unforeseen disruptions.
