As Spain grapples with growing protests against overtourism in cities like Barcelona and Mallorca, the coastal resort of Benidorm remains steadfast in its commitment to the mass tourism model it pioneered during General Francisco Franco's dictatorship. The city, known for its skyscrapers and package holidays, continues to thrive on a formula developed over six decades ago.
Angela Barcelo, 72-year-old owner of Hotel Les Dunes, reflects on Benidorm's unique trajectory: "There are no car factories here, no soap factories. What we have is a factory of hotels, restaurants and businesses that make our visitors happy." Her family's hotel, opened in 1957 during Spain's socially conservative era, stands as a testament to the resort's enduring appeal.
The article highlights the often-overlooked role of women in Benidorm's development. With local men frequently away at sea, women like Barcelo's grandmother managed family assets and established many of the area's first hospitality businesses. "What Benidorm is today is thanks to the women," Barcelo emphasized, underscoring their pivotal role in reshaping Spain's international image through tourism.
While other Spanish destinations confront anti-tourism movements, Benidorm's high-density development strategy – featuring Europe's highest concentration of skyscrapers per square kilometer – continues to attract visitors seeking sun, sand, and predictable comforts. This approach, born from Franco-era economic needs that prioritized foreign currency earnings, now faces new scrutiny as global travel patterns evolve.
