This study analyses how the intensive use of short-term rentals (STRs) in the tourism sector contributes to the transformation and touristification of rural areas in mature tourist destinations, using the island of Mallorca, Spain, as a case study. Based on growth machine theory, the analysis innovatively examines the factors driving the expansion of STRs in rural spaces, with a focus on economic, social, and territorial dynamics. The research hypothesis is that the proliferation of STRs acts as a key element in rural touristification. Using a combination of spatial and temporal indicators, the study identifies patterns of intensification and dispersion of STRs in rural areas, offering a comparison with other Mediterranean destinations, particularly in Spain. The results show that STRs have generated significant spatial impacts, leading to the displacement of agricultural land use and increasing tensions within local communities, mainly due to rising housing prices. The study highlights the need to implement spatial planning policies that restrain the uncontrolled expansion of STRs, ensure sustainable tourism planning, and promote housing policies that protect residents from the negative effects of touristification. Various scenarios for the evolution of STRs are proposed depending on their regulation.

El overtourismes un fenómeno creciente en muchos destinos que ha situado la gestión de los flujos turísticos en la agenda política a escala local. El análisis de los casos de Barcelona y Palma, dos ciudades destacadas entre los destinos urbanos españoles, permite revisar las medidas adoptadas por parte de las administraciones públicas para gestionar este proceso. Los resultados muestran la necesidad de avanzar hacia una gobernanza turística integral para mejorar la gestión de los destinos urbanos. Para tal fin, se apuesta por una planificación turística inteligente que, además, sirva para guiar la recuperación del sector en la era post-COVID.

Percepciones de la turistificación según lugar de residencia en el destino: el caso de Málaga Se realiza una investigación novedosa sobre las relaciones entre la gobernanza turística, la turistificación y la percepción de los impactos que se generan en un destino urbano consolidado como es el caso de Málaga. Se propone una medición de la turistificación y sus impactos en función de la distribución espacial de los residentes. Para ello se ha encuestado a 450 residentes del municipio y se han realizado 15 entrevistas semiestructuradas. Se aplica un análisis factorial y un análisis cualitativo de contenido. Los resultados ponen de manifiesto la relación entre la gobernanza y la turistificación, y cómo ésta condiciona la percepción de los impactos económicos, sociales y ambientales y la identidad de lugar. Es destacable que el lugar de residencia (centro/periferia) influye en las percepciones relacionadas con la turistificación.

Since the mid-20th century, tourism has become a strategic activity for the economy of the Balearic Islands, causing profound social, territorial, and environmental transformations. This fact challenges local society, which must be aware of its environment to better face the future challenges posed by this economic activity. With this goal, the official curriculum has been analyzed, making it possible to ascertain the approach with which this subject is taught by the administration and what objectives are set. Furthermore, a review was carried out of the contents of geography textbooks in the third year of ESO and the second year of the Baccalaureate, which corresponds to the educational stages in which tourism aspects appear. The results obtained represent a fundamental strategic diagnosis to improve the teaching and learning of this key activity for the Balearic Islands, giving it more importance and adapting its approach to the current times.

This research analysed the transformation of hotel rooftops in the historic centre of Palma into new spaces for tourist consumption. Nowadays, tourists are looking for unique and special experiences, which has led tourist destinations to seek new attractions to offer. Rooftops are becoming privileged places and provide a differential experience, leading to an increase in the offer of tourist services on hotel rooftops. This study explored the change of use in hotel rooftops in historic city centres for the commercialization of tourism. In this sense, this research sheds light on the factors that influence the commodification of rooftops and the attributes that are most valued by users in Google Maps and TripAdvisor reviews of their experiences. Furthermore, the transformation of rooftops has not followed a single model of commodification, but different typologies were identified according to uses and access modalities. Finally, implications for the city’s tourism planning and management are presented.