Authorities in Spain's Balearic Islands doubled the tourist tax on May 1, raising the maximum to €4 per person per day, Interfax-Tourism reports, citing The Independent newspaper.
“In recent years, the Balearic Islands have been visited by all "More tourists, leading to increased tourist flow during the high season and, consequently, strain on transport and resort infrastructure. From May 1 to October 31, tourists on the islands will be charged a tax of up to €4 per person per day. In addition, the resort fee is subject to VAT of 10%," the statement reads.
According to the publication, the tax amount depends on the accommodation chosen by tourists. For example, €1 per day will be charged for hostels, while €2 will be charged for cruise ship passengers and travelers staying in economy hotels. Tourists will pay €3 per day for stays in 3-4-star hotels, and €4 per day for stays in 5-star hotels. Children under 16 are exempt from the tax.
"Now, a tourist staying for two weeks in a 5-star hotel must pay a tax of €61.6, not including accommodation, travel, and other expenses," the publication notes.
The proceeds from the resort tax will go towards protecting and preserving the islands' natural environment, as well as contributing to the tourism industry.
The tourist tax will be significantly lower from November to April, as these are not peak months for tourism on the islands.
Source: trn-news.ru