The Truth Behind the Canary Islands “No-Go” Headlines
Just this week, headlines have resurfaced claiming that Lanzarote and the Canary Islands have been added to a “no-travel list” for tourists. Here´s everything you need to know about the headlines, and the truth behind them.
Where Did the Story Originate?
The original story comes from Fodor’s Travel, the long-established American travel publisher, who have since 2023 published an annual editorial feature highlighting destinations where they believe tourism pressures exist, entitled the ´No List´.
Destinations such as Bali, Barcelona, Mallorca, Venice, Tokyo, Lisbon, and Scotland´s North Coast have previously been included in their list.
The Canary Islands were included alongside Antarctica, Mexico City, Montmartre in Paris, and parts of Switzerland in their Article published in October 2025.
Importantly, Fodor’s itself clearly stated that the list was: “not a call for boycott”, they are not anti-tourism. In fact, their entire business is built around travel.
Instead, the list was intended to highlight and encourage discussion about destinations facing genuine concerns linked to sustainability. Fodor’s article was intended to encourage thoughtful, responsible travel, not to scare tourists away.
What Happened Next?
Headlines describing the Canary Islands as a possible “no-go destination” began to spread rapidly across international media and social media platforms. For many people considering a holiday to Lanzarote, the coverage has understandably created confusion and concern.
Some media outlets and social media platforms began dramatically reframing the story using phrases like:
- “No-go destination”
- “Tourists warned not to visit”
- “Holidaymakers told to stay away”
- “Brits no longer welcome”
That shift in tone created fear and confusion among many potential visitors, and is still created concern as new articles are appearing more than 6 months later with the same dramatic headlines.
The Reality
Lanzarote remains one of Europe’s most welcoming, peaceful, and enjoyable holiday destinations.
Every day, thousands of visitors continue to enjoy:
the island’s beaches,
restaurants,
hotels,
excursions,
sunshine,
and relaxed atmosphere.
Tourism remains the backbone of Lanzarote’s economy, supporting thousands of local jobs and businesses across the island.
The recent conversations taking place across the Canary Islands are not about rejecting tourists. They are about finding better balance and protecting the islands for the future.
Should You Still Visit Lanzarote?
Absolutely.
Visitors coming to Lanzarote today can still expect:
- year-round sunshine,
- beautiful beaches,
- friendly hospitality,
- fantastic restaurants,
- stunning scenery,
- and a relaxed holiday experience.
The recent headlines do not reflect the experience people actually have when they arrive here.
The simple truth is this: don’t believe everything you read in the headlines.
While some media reports have painted a dramatic picture of the Canary Islands, the reality in Lanzarote remains very different. The island is still as welcoming, peaceful, and beautiful as ever, a true home from home for so many visitors who return year after year.
Lanzarote remains open to tourists, proud of its hospitality, and grateful to the millions of people who continue to support local businesses, restaurants, hotels, and communities across the island.
Visitors arriving here today will still find the same things that have made Lanzarote one of Europe’s most loved holiday destinations for decades: year-round sunshine, breathtaking scenery, relaxed beaches, friendly people, and an atmosphere that keeps people coming back time and time again.
The conversations taking place around tourism are about protecting the island for the future, not closing the door on the visitors who love it.
And for those considering a holiday here, Lanzarote Waits For You.
