The struggle for the best spots has spiraled beyond control on Tenerife, prompting one hotel resort to introduce a unique form of beach management known as “sunbed police.” This unusual measure was taken in response to the intense competition among tourists eager to secure prime seating near the pool area. The situation escalated so dramatically that the hotel administration felt compelled to implement this system, which quickly gained attention online after being captured on video.
On the southern coast of Tenerife, specifically in the resort town of Playa de las Americas, the battle for sunbeds reached its peak when visitors began gathering well before the official opening time of the pool zone. According to reports, individuals started arriving at the entrance to the pool area as early as 7:30 AM, even though access was officially permitted starting at 8:00 AM. A British tourist named Goop Davis documented this chaotic scene while staying at the hotel during her vacation. Her footage showed dozens of people waiting patiently outside the gates, with security personnel monitoring the crowd to ensure compliance with the set schedule.
As soon as the barrier opened at 8:00 AM, approximately 40 guests rushed into the area simultaneously, all vying for the most desirable spots along the edge of the pool. Davis described how she had woken up early and observed the growing queue from around 7:30 AM, noting that everyone was waiting for the doors to open. Once they were released, the rush was immediate, with each person trying to claim a spot where they could place their towel for the entire day.
The video uploaded to TikTok went viral, sparking widespread discussion among social media users who expressed shock and disbelief at the intensity of the competition. Many commented on how such a scenario would be unbearable if it continued for two weeks, describing it as a real test of endurance. Some users admitted they couldn’t imagine enduring such conditions, while others compared the situation to children being let loose in a store offering free sweets—highlighting the frenzy and chaos that ensued.
This incident has also drawn attention to broader issues related to tourism and accommodation costs. In Ukraine, due to current safety concerns, the choice of destinations for vacations remains limited, with Odessa and the surrounding region being the primary option for seaside relaxation. However, the high demand for these locations has significantly increased the cost of accommodations. For instance, a week-long stay at the NEMO Hotel located on the Langzharon Beach includes a room with three beds and breakfast, costing approximately 126,000 Ukrainian hryvnias. These figures have shocked many social media users, highlighting the economic pressures faced by travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable stays.
The situation on Tenerife underscores the challenges faced by both tourists and hospitality providers in managing expectations and resources effectively. As the popularity of travel continues to rise globally, resorts and hotels must find innovative ways to balance guest satisfaction with operational efficiency. While the introduction of a “sunbed police” might seem extreme, it reflects the lengths to which some establishments will go to maintain order amidst overwhelming demand.
Looking ahead, it remains to be seen whether similar measures will be adopted elsewhere or if alternative solutions can be found to manage the increasing pressure on popular tourist destinations. The experience on Tenerife serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in providing quality service under high-stress conditions, particularly during peak seasons when competition for amenities becomes fierce.
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