Spanish tourism leaders have gathered in London to reassure UK visitors that they remain a 'priority' for Spain, amidst growing concerns over overtourism and anti-tourism protests in popular destinations. Rosario Sánchez Grau, Spain's secretary of state for tourism, emphasized the importance of the UK-Spain tourism relationship, stating, 'We are proud and grateful that Spain remains the number one holiday destination for UK visitors. It is our priority to protect and nurture this relationship for the future.'

The event, attended by mayors from Spain's most popular coastal areas and top travel executives, aimed to address the challenges posed by overtourism. Manuel Butler, the director of the Spanish Tourist Office in the UK, highlighted the need to differentiate between local tensions and the overall welcoming nature of Spain. 'The vast majority of Spain remains enthusiastic in welcoming tourists,' Butler remarked, pointing out that protests in cities like Barcelona and Palma de Majorca stem from broader societal issues such as housing pressures and environmental strain.

Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2, voiced concerns over the impact of anti-tourism protests on UK holidaymakers. Heapy noted a growing perception among some that overseas visitors are not welcome in Spain, a sentiment fueled by demonstrations featuring messages like 'tourists go home.' He also criticized 'unlicensed tourism,' particularly through platforms like Airbnb, for exacerbating local tensions by driving up rental rates and bypassing regulations. 'Airbnb can be controlled. They don't rule the world,' Heapy asserted, advocating for stricter legislation and hefty fines for non-compliance.

The discussions in London underscore the delicate balance between sustaining Spain's vital tourism industry and addressing the legitimate concerns of local communities. With both Spanish officials and UK travel leaders committed to finding solutions, the focus is now on implementing measures that ensure Spain remains a welcoming destination for tourists while mitigating the impacts of overtourism. As the dialogue continues, the hope is that these efforts will preserve the cherished UK-Spain tourism relationship for years to come.

Netflix is set to transport viewers to the historic and picturesque Oxford University with the release of 'My Oxford Year' on August 1. Starring Sofia Carson and Corey Mylchreest, this romantic drama promises to blend the allure of one of the world's most prestigious universities with a heartfelt story of love, ambition, and self-discovery. Adapted from Julia Whelan's novel, which itself is based on Burnett's original screenplay, the film is directed by BAFTA nominee Iain Morris.

The story follows Anna, an ambitious young American woman played by Sofia Carson, who arrives at Oxford to fulfill a lifelong dream. Her meticulously planned academic journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets Jamie, portrayed by Corey Mylchreest, a charming local who becomes her teacher. Their encounter sets the stage for a transformative year that challenges Anna's plans and perspectives, offering viewers a mix of touching moments, stunning scenery, and a deep dive into the complexities of love and personal growth.

Behind the scenes, 'My Oxford Year' boasts a talented production team, including executive producers Caroline Levy, Christopher Simon, Maggie Monteith, Pete Harris, and Laura Char Carson, Sofia Carson's mother. The film is produced by Bowen, Wyck Godfrey, Quicksilver, and Isaac Klausner under Temple Hill Entertainment, with George Berman serving as co-producer. The cast also features Dougray Scott, Catherine McCormack, Harry Trevaldwyn, Esmé Kingdom, Nikhil Parmar, Poppy Gilbert, Romina Cocca, and Yadier Fernández, adding depth and diversity to the narrative.

As the summer heats up, 'My Oxford Year' offers a refreshing escape into a world of romance and intellectual pursuit. With its August 1 release date fast approaching, fans of romantic dramas and picturesque settings have much to look forward to. The film's trailer hints at a story filled with laughter, love, and perhaps a few surprises, making it a must-watch for those seeking a blend of emotional depth and visual beauty in their cinematic experiences.