Scarcity of housing for a growing population. The housing crisis currently affecting Canary Islands is impacting various sectors. Specifically, in Tenerife, critical situations are arising in certain areas of the island. One of these areas is the municipality of Arona, where many workers have turned to caravans due to the economic challenges of acquiring a property.
The rise in rental prices due to a lack of available housing is leaving many without a roof over their heads. One of the areas experiencing an increase in these types of vehicles is Los Cristianos. Caravans are becoming more common in places such as Las Américas beach or along Amsterdam Avenue.
The Arona City Council is taking steps to address the situation, aiming to establish a census of these vehicles and their owners. According to the mayor of the municipality in an interview with COPE Canarias, Fátima Lemes stated the need for a census in preparation for new local regulations.
Holiday Rentals Everywhere
Holiday rentals are not limited to traditional housing. With the increasing popularity of caravans, many have taken advantage by purchasing a motorhome and renting it out as a holiday home. This practice was highlighted by the president of the Canary Islands Association of Homologated Motorhomes and Campers, Juan Martín, during an interview with COPE radio in the Archipelago.
“Taking advantage of the absence of municipal regulations on this matter in the municipality of Arona”
In addition to facing issues related to mass tourism in Arona throughout the year, there is also a loss of parking spaces due to the presence of caravans. Martín claims that “allegedly, many owners park their motorhomes in these places, take the keys so they cannot be moved, and offer them for holiday rentals.
Meeting of caravans on the coast of San Miguel de Abona / Carsten W. Lauritsen
The situation worsens when considering the inappropriate locations where these caravans are being stationed. As Martín points out, there is a need for access to “electricity, a place to empty tanks, access to potable water, and ensuring safety in the environment.”
All of these challenges persist due to the lack of legislation concerning caravans, which are rapidly increasing in numbers. Permanent residence in these vehicles is not legal, yet it is difficult to prove their fixed presence since they “take advantage of the absence of municipal regulations on this matter in the municipality of Arona.”
Furthermore, adding to the inconveniences caused by some caravan owners is another issue: “Allegedly, there are even individuals using motorhomes for prostitution.”
Juan Martín’s report raises concerns, emphasizing the need for clear regulations. The Canary Islands Association of Homologated Motorhomes and Campers has offered to provide legal guidance to local authorities on various matters, such as the protocols of the Local Police.
A Way of Life
These cases should not overshadow those where motorhomes are used responsibly and are certified. Some couples have chosen to live on wheels and enjoy this lifestyle, such as Daniel Acosta and Nayra Mesa.
This couple from Tenerife left their apartment in 2020 to move into one of these homes and have travelled to many places around the world with their home on wheels. Additionally, they have created a social media profile where they share their adventures on the road.
