Residents in Rovaniemi voice concerns over rising tourism impact this winter

Residents of Rovaniemi are increasingly concerned about the dramatic rise in tourism in their city, which they fear may negatively impact their home lives this winter. “We are a bit terrified about how this will manifest in our homes. Someone has mixed up the spreadsheets, as the number of visitors expected to arrive far exceeds the legal accommodation capacity,” stated Taina Torvela from the Rovaniemi Central Residents’ Association.

In response to the rapid growth of tourism, Torvela’s association is organizing an event in collaboration with a network of around 70 housing companies. The gathering will address the social issues stemming from the surge in visitors. “Rovaniemi is on the path to becoming like Barcelona. Based on our population, Rovaniemi already has three times the number of professional short-term rental properties compared to Barcelona,” Torvela pointed out.

Finding reasonable family housing has become a significant challenge for newcomers. Renters are fulfilling their expectations for higher profits by leasing to tourists, consequently leading to a housing shortage and rising prices. This situation mirrors issues in various European tourist destinations, where locals have protested against overwhelming tourist influx, such as in Barcelona where residents mockingly sprayed tourists with water guns.

A public demonstration titled “I am a Resident” is scheduled for September 4, where residents will march from Arktikum to Lordi Square. The event will feature input from Professor Mari Vaattovaara of the University of Helsinki, focusing on residents’ experiences with the consequences of tourism. Torvela expressed hope for a large turnout to discuss ways to manage tourism growth responsibly, ensuring it benefits both local residents and tourism operators alike.