Sant Antoni, a beloved spot for UK clubbing enthusiasts in Ibiza, finds itself at the centre of a heated campaign against nitrous oxide, popularly known as 'laughing gas'. Damià Marí, the newly appointed head of the local hospitality association, has voiced strong concerns about the negative impact this drug has on the area’s image both domestically and internationally. Marí, who owns the Ses Savines and Arenal hotels, has shown support for the recent measures proposed by the Sant Antoni local council to tighten regulations and issue fines to discourage public consumption. There’s a growing call for stepped-up enforcement to ensure these measures translate into real change.
Marí highlights that the use of nitrous oxide is often linked to the more excessive side of tourism in the area. Local businesses and authorities are particularly anxious about the lasting effects these behaviours have on Sant Antoni’s reputation. Fortunately, there has been a reported increase in police presence and community monitoring, raising hopes for a positive outcome as the tourist season kicks into gear.
The annual meeting of the hospitality association also addressed other ongoing challenges, new developments, and solutions for maintaining Sant Antoni as a premium destination. Despite strides in revamping the town’s hotel offerings, efforts continue to elevate its appeal by transforming areas like the West End. Positive feedback from visitors about these ongoing changes has been echoed by Marí, though he acknowledges there is more work ahead to preserve Sant Antoni’s charm and allure for UK tourists for years to come.
