La Palma on Netflix: Volcanic Drama Sparks Island Debate
Opinions are divided on La Palma regarding its impending moment in the spotlight. The small Canary Island, often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, is set to be featured in a new Netflix mini-series premiering on December 12th. While some welcome the potential boost to tourism, others worry about being typecast as a disaster zone.
A Volcanic Past and a Digital Future
La Palma has always lived a bit in the shadow of its sisters – Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote – and even Gomera, which still clings to its hippie image despite efficient marketing efforts. “No one really looks after us,” one local lamented. “The few months of volcanic glory are long gone. Even pity no longer works, after all, there has been enough hardship in the world and in Spain in recent years for anyone to be interested in us.”
For some islanders, this underdog status is actually a pretty good fit. “Being under the radar suits us just fine,” another resident commented.
The island’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere attract a specific type of tourist, those seeking escape and authenticity. These visitors are careful to preserve the paradise they find, treating the land and its people with respect.
Still, there’s a tug-of-war within La Palma between those who want to simply be, and those who yearn for a wider audience. As one local put it: “We like to think we’re not selling out, but secretly we crave the fame.” A well-placed celebrity visit or a mention in a travel magazine can be a welcome boost, and they’ve seen their share of both.
From Burger Glory to Bombeastic Spectacle
A few years ago, La Palma basked in the glow of poetic justice when it was declared home to the best burger in Spain, a subject that still brings a smile to locals’ faces. Then came George Clooney’s visit, an event that continues to resonate positively with islanders.
But fame, as La Palma is about to learn, can be a double-edged sword. The new Netflix series, also named “La Palma,” poses a unique set of challenges.
Tsunami Fears Return to La Palma
The series, a Norwegian production, focuses on a volcanic eruption and the ensuing chaos. The plot echoes a 2001 “scientific” publication that suggested the collapse of La Cumbre Vieja volcano could trigger a massive tsunami that would devastate the east coast of the United States. This theory, solidly debunked by serious scientific teams worldwide, has resurfaced in the series.
The timing is particularly sensitive given the 2021 volcanic eruption, which is still fresh in the minds of islanders. A representative from the La Laguna Neighborhood Association expressed concern, stating, “People are not yet ready to launch some kind of entertainment series.”
More Picturesque Than Perilous?
Oscar Leon, chairman of Centro di Iniciativas Turísticas (CIT), sees things differently. He believes any publicity is good publicity, regardless of the subject matter. “People can distinguish between fiction and reality,” he asserted. “The series will spark more curiosity than fear. Besides,” Leon added, “we’ll finally get to see La Palma on screen, beautiful, real footage of our home.”
The debate highlights the complex relationship between tourism and identity. While celebrating their uniqueness and natural beauty, islanders grapple with the stereotypes and misconceptions that sometimes accompany global attention. Whether “La Palma” brings a tsunami of tourists or merely a passing ripple, one thing is certain: La Palma’s story is about to be rewritten.
What are the differing opinions on La Palma regarding the potential impact of the Netflix series?
## La Palma on Netflix: A Conversation
**INTRO**
Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re discussing the buzz surrounding the upcoming Netflix mini-series ‘La Palma’. Premiering on December 12th, the show depicts a Norwegian family caught in the crosshairs of a volcanic eruption on the Canary Island. Early buzz suggests the series is creating a complex dialog on the island itself, sparking both excitement and apprehension. Joining us to discuss this is [Alex Reed Name], a journalist who recently spent time on La Palma.
**INTERVIEW**
**HOST:** [Alex Reed Name], thanks for being here.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me.
**HOST:** So, the island of La Palma is set to be thrust into the global spotlight with this new Netflix series. What’s the general mood you encountered on La Palma?
**Alex Reed:** It’s definitely divided. Some
locals are thrilled about the potential for increased tourism a show like this could bring. Others are voicing concerns about being pigeonholed as simply a “disaster zone.” La Palma has so much more to offer than just its volcanic history. They’re known for stunning natural beauty, tranquil vibes, and a welcoming community.
**HOST:** That’s interesting. You mentioned the volcanic history. Does the island have a long history with eruptions?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. La Palma’s volcanic past is a significant part of its identity. There are visibly still scarred landscapes and a palpable sense of the island’s raw power. So, the show taps into that, reclining a fictionalized, yet very believable, scenario. [[1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zFVoLQyWjc)]
**HOST:** So, it sounds like ‘La Palma’ walks a fine line between highlighting the island’s dramatic landscape and respecting its present-day reality.
**Alex Reed:**Exactly. It’s a crucial conversation to be having. Some islanders feel they’ve been overlooked for too long while their larger Canarian neighbors grab the spotlight. Others are concerned that a focus on disaster might overshadow the island’s other charms. It’ll be fascinating to see how the island navigates this newfound attention.
**HOST:**
Thank you so much for sharing your insights, [Alex Reed Name]. We wish you well in your reporting.
**OUTRO**
This is a crucial conversation for La Palma. We’ll continue to follow this story as it unfolds.
