The idyllic, sun-kissed island of Majorca needs little introduction. Warm Mediterranean waters, picturesque historic towns, mouthwatering cuisine and accommodation to delight a range of client types (all accessible in less than a 2.5 hour flight from the UK) is what keeps travellers coming back year after year. Yet, it’s also widely known that in recent years, local people in Majorca have felt the pressure of tourism in their communities.
That’s why Majorca Responsible Tourism Foundation – together with the Council of Majorca and funded by the Sustainable Tourism Tax – have recently launched a new campaign as a way to shift the narrative and bring a mutual respect between visitors and locals once again.
The campaign, titled ‘I take care of you, you take care of me’, consists of eight simple commitments, encouraging both travellers and residents to coexist and work together to create a more responsible, sustainable and connected island. Travel agents can support the campaign by sharing the pledge with their Majorca-loving clients and encouraging them to sign it.
In an exclusive message for TTG, a council spokesperson highlighted Majorca’s enduring relationship with UK holidaymakers, urging travel agents to reassure clients they remain warmly welcome.
“The British travel trade is a key ally in spreading this message and helping us promote a way of travelling that respects our island, its environment, its culture and, above all, the people who call the island home.”
They added: “Every small gesture counts towards keeping Majorca an extraordinary place to visit, and at the same time, a good place to live. That is precisely the philosophy behind ‘I take care of you, you take care of me’.”
Below, we highlight the eight commitments included in the pledge – and how agents can share these with clients to better inform them on being more responsible travellers ahead of their Majorca escape.
1. Leave nothing behind
Encourage your clients to not leave any waste behind – especially in nature – even if it’s something biodegradable like an orange peel. Instead, visitors should carry everything with them until they find a designated recycling spot. If travellers spot litter on the beach or the streets, they are encouraged to lend a helping hand by picking it up. Leading by this example can inspire others to also chip in and maintain the island's cleanliness for all to enjoy.
2. Respect flora and fauna
Majorca is internationally renowned for its stunning natural environments, ranging from mountains to beaches. It’s possible for visitors to enjoy these stunning landscapes while also ensuring their protection. Beyond keeping hiking trails and coastlines clean, travellers should also follow marked paths to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems. They can also respect the rich biodiversity by not stepping on or picking native plants, and not disturbing wildlife. These are a few simple steps to ensure Majorca’s nature endures for future generations.
3. Minimise ecological impact
Your clients can reduce their carbon footprint in several easy ways. First, they can make a conscious effort to reduce their water and energy consumption during their stay. They can consider opting for more sustainable transport options when on the island, such as using bikes, taking public transport or hiring an electric car. Finally, when it comes to accommodation, they can choose suppliers who operate with sustainable practices (with the help of agent guidance). If more travellers take these small actions on their travels, it can make a big difference.
4. Support local
By buying, living and consuming local, travellers are not only enriching their own experience, but also supporting communities across Majorca. From purchasing goods produced by local farmers and discovering regional flavours at traditional markets, to buying local crafts and products from independent shops, visitors will enjoy both a treat and a clear conscience, knowing their money is going towards the island’s economy and the wellbeing of its residents.
5. Look, but don't touch
Majorca is widely loved for its beautiful Mediterranean shores, but while visitors are welcome to explore its underwater wonders – whether swimming, snorkelling, diving or other water-based activities – they should avoid touching anything to prevent harming corals and creatures. It’s easy to still appreciate marine species without physical interaction. If hiring a boat and sailing around the island, skippers can also protect seagrass meadows by avoiding anchoring nearby.
6. Remember the three Rs
Your clients can join the mission to reduce consumption by honouring the three Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Recycling is made easy in Majorca, with colour-coded bins for organic waste (brown), packaging (yellow), paper and cardboard (blue) and glass (green), and travellers should use this system wherever it is available.
7. Respect local people
This may be a short-term holiday destination for many, but for residents, it is their permanent home. Travel agents can gently remind their customers of this to ensure their stay is mindful of local communities. For example, visitors should understand that Majorca may have different rest hours to the UK, so should be careful not disturb locals’ peace. Travellers are recommended to read up on local rules, customs and culture ahead of their trip, too.
8. Support and spread the word
Visitors can help preserve the unique qualities that make Majorca an exceptional place to live and a destination to visit by supporting this Responsible Tourism Commitment. The more people who sign the pledge and participate, the further the awareness will spread. The Majorca Responsible Tourism Foundation is open to hearing travellers' feedback and suggestions to help improve sustainable initiatives across the island. All contributions are welcome, and key to making a real difference.
