With the post-Covid tourism boom, the travel industry is thriving again. However, a new trend is emerging as some of your favorite spots are introducing extra charges for tourists. These tourist taxes are aimed at managing the influx of visitors and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
According to Guy Bigwood, head of change-makers at the Global Destination Sustainability Movement, “Tourism taxes are being considered as tools to control the numbers.”
Destinations like Greece are increasing hotel fees to fight climate change, and Dubrovnik in Croatia is tapping into cruise ship tourist taxes to fund local infrastructure.
The idea is that tourists and businesses are willing to pay these levies if they see the money being put back into their communities. While tourist taxes aren’t entirely new, they’ve been on the rise for over a decade, with at least 10 cities or countries planning new taxes or increasing existing ones.
This shift has prompted several popular destinations to adopt these tourist taxes, making the cost of your next vacation a bit steeper. Here’s a laid-back look at 9 spots compiled by the New York Post:
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam takes the lead in Europe and secures the fourth spot globally for the highest tourist tax. They’ve slapped a 12.5 percent fee on hotel rooms this year to tackle the consequences of excessive tourism.
Venice, Italy
Venice, the dreamy Italian destination, is grappling with the downsides of mass tourism. To enter the floating city, daily visitors need to cough up over $5.38, helping the city deal with the aftermath of excessive tourism.
Barcelona and Valencia, Spain
Barcelona currently charges around $3 above the tourist tax throughout Spain. In March, this fee will jump to $3.56. Valencia will also jump on the bandwagon, imposing tourist taxes ranging from 50 cents to over $2 per night.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali, a favorite in Indonesia, is now implementing tourist taxes. Starting February 14, foreign nationals must pay around $10 per person. This will go towards preserving Bali’s environment, nature, and culture.
Iceland
Before soaking in the Northern Lights or relaxing in Iceland’s hot springs, travelers now have to pay a tourist tax. Officials announced an unspecified fee, but they promise it won’t break the bank.
Manchester, England
Manchester introduced tourist taxes for temporary accommodation, collecting over $3 million annually. Not a hefty sum, but it adds up, as estimated by officials.
Thailand
Thailand is adding an air travel fee of about $9 and a $4 fee for those arriving by water or land. The tax applies to individuals over 2 years old and will cover tourist-related service costs.
Olhão, Portugal
This southern Portuguese city is now charging tourist taxes during peak seasons and a reduced fee during the off-season from November to March.
Bhutan
Bhutan, the South Asian gem, requires deep pockets from tourists. Adults pay a hefty fee of $100 per day, and children aged six to 11 are charged $50.
So, the next time you plan a getaway, don’t be surprised if the bill comes with a little extra for being part of the tourist crowd.