The viral image, published by a local newspaper, shows a group of tourists staying in apartments in the Ayora neighborhood who brought chairs to a street island on Ramiro de Maeztu street. There, they settled down to spend the afternoon drinking beer and sunbathing, some of them even shirtless.
This incident has generated a debate with various viewpoints. On one hand, the occupation of public space to improvise a 'botellón' (outdoor drinking session) is criticized, reminding that alcohol consumption in the street is not permitted in the city. Furthermore, reference is made to the potential noise they may generate.
“"If we do it on our sidewalk, the Police arrive and fine us."
On the other hand, some internet users defend that they are not doing anything wrong and recall that the 'eixida a la fresca' (going out for fresh air) is a deeply rooted custom in Mediterranean and Valencian culture. It has even been proposed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as it is a practice transmitted across generations that strengthens human relationships.
However, the criticism focuses on the fact that this practice is carried out in the middle of an avenue and involves alcohol consumption. Some users express their indignation at the different permissiveness between foreigners and locals, pointing out that elderly people who bring chairs to their doorstep are asked to put them away.
“"The city now belongs to them and those who profit from them. We, the neighbors, are in the way."
