The housing crisis that has plagued the Canary Islands for several years has resulted in turmoil in property prices and their availability. This disparity has led to areas like the South of Tenerife, where major employment centres are concentrated, becoming almost impossible to locate an affordable home for those earning a minimum wage.
In light of these challenges, innovative solutions arise. At least, that is what it appears. The harsh reality confronting the Archipelago has driven some individuals to pursue unconventional solutions; perhaps their aim is to alleviate a crisis that authorities have yet to resolve, or they may simply be trying to profit from a situation that has reached its breaking point and is suffocating numerous families each day.
Citroën C3 for 22 euros per night
Airbnb has become the favoured platform for those in search of accommodation. When browsing the options available in Tenerife, one will encounter a selection as varied as it is charming: ranging from quaint flats to spacious country houses, including farms, shared rooms, hotels, hostels, and apartments… However, the truly concerning aspect emerges when, after a comprehensive search, one stumbles upon unusual offerings that push the boundaries of what has typically been regarded as a home.
A notable example is a Citroën C3 Motion advertisement. According to the ad’s description, it is not merely a vehicle, but a “caravan/motorhome”. The advertiser promotes this car as a “practical and functional” choice for touring and camping across the islands. Among the features provided by this four-wheeled vehicle are a portable refrigerator — “ideal for keeping your food fresh” —, two sleeping bags “comfortable and ready for any climate”, a mattress designed to “ensure a good night’s sleep”, and a tent. Alongside this extensive offering, there is a map of the island and a first aid kit, “in case circumstances require it”.
The price of this service amounts to 22 euros per night, although one must add an additional nine euros for management fees charged by the platform. Regarding the host’s standing, the average rating is 4.73 out of 5, indicating a high level of client satisfaction. Reviews, predominantly favourable, underscore both the host’s friendliness and the comfort of the service, necessitating meticulous searching to find any negative feedback.
This publication has consistently reported on the mass proliferation of motorhomes, vans and other vehicles, as well as the rental of these on various housing rental portals. This is yet another illustration. If we delve deeper, we can uncover other adverts that similarly promote cars in the same manner as the aforementioned example. Many utilise them as a mode of transportation, while many others resort to this option as their living arrangement.
“I feel like it’s a relentless search”
DIARIO DE AVISOS has managed to interview Lucia Brito, a local from La Palma, who, after relocating to Tenerife four years ago, has moved from apartment to apartment in search of a permanent residence. This restlessness, at one point, compelled her to utilise this service. “It was just for one night. I had just vacated an apartment. I had all my belongings with me, and the only option available was to hire this service.” The Canarian highlights that, although it is an extremely necessary measure, she “recommends its use”, as hotels, hostels, or rental apartments exceed her budget.
“I have relied on this type of service frequently. Vehicles repurposed as living spaces. Many people employ them to explore the island, yet many others, like me, are obliged to spend a night within them,” she states. Brito emphasises that her position as a waitress and the absence of family on the island has resulted in a “tireless and nearly daily” quest for homes on various platforms that align with her financial means. “I have not lasted more than a year in any apartment. I feel as though it’s an unending search to finally settle into what was once my home.”, she explains.
The ideal blend of creativity and necessity showcased in these types of advertisements sheds light on the issues that intertwine the lives of thousands of families and individuals across the Islands. It appears that gradually, many are redefining the concept of “housing”, resulting in increasingly unforeseen consequences.
