An expat nicknamed the ‘King of Benidorm’ has said that locals “love Brits” despite anti-tourist protests.
Nigel Pope, originally from Cornwall, moved to the popular spot on Costa Blanca in Spain seven years ago after getting divorced.
The barman and TikTok creator, who calls the seaside town his home, aims to inspire Brits to make the 960-mile journey to the Spanish coast with his extensive Benidorm ‘guides’.
He says he is respected and well-known by locals, which is what led to his nickname.
But the Spanish Government called for “overtourism” and expats “taking” housing from locals to be dealt with through “serious action”.
Nigel has spoken out about his future living in Benidorm, saying he is not planning on giving up his life there any time soon.
Speaking to the Star, Nigel said: “I am not worried at all about my future in Spain, or especially in Benidorm.
“As far as I can see I have not seen anything change here in Benidorm and I am friends with many Spanish people here as my Spanish is very good.
“Like I said, I have not seen any change here in Benidorm. My friends and my Spanish followers would let me know if it was bad.
“In fact, since Brexit, there are more Spanish people working in the British bars now as it’s virtually impossible for British students to work here unless they have residency or a Work permit, which seems to be hard to get. So no tensions visible to me.”
Last week, Spanish housing minister Isabel Rodriguez revealed that the government plans to potentially cap the amount of holiday flats across Spain, amid ongoing tensions with tourists.
But Nigel says the reception in Benidorm is a lot different, explaining: “I don’t understand why (Rodriguez) would do this as it brings in more revenue for the Spanish Treasury.
“Our local mayor has involved local Brits in many events and last New Years Eve. We had a countdown for the Spanish New Year and also another for the British New year and we had two firework displays, one for each.
“So I don’t understand why it’s being reported that the British are not welcome, they most definitely seem to be welcomed and involved in the festivities in Benidorm.”
But he is on a mission to show there are more sides to Benidorm than just partying and drinking. And Nigel’s audience of 46,000 followers can’t get enough.