More than 18million Brits visited Spain last year, making it our favourite holiday destination
People heading to Spain for their holidays could see a significant increase in the amount they pay under new proposals. It comes after a call to increase the tourist tax paid by visitors when they head to the Balearic islands.
There are four main Balearic Islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. However, the archipelago also includes the smaller island of Cabrera and around 150 other minor islets.
Currently, Britons heading on holiday to Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca pay a charge depending on the standard of their accommodation and when they visit..
During high season, tourists pay €4 (£3.50) per person every night in a five-star hotel, €3 in mid-range accommodation, €2 for budget stays, and €1 in hostels. This then drops by 75 per cent during off-peak times.
Roughly 18million Brits head to Spain every year, making it our favourite holiday destination. It is thought that 27 per cent – almost five million – of them fly to the Balearics, so any change in price would have a significant impact.
One of Spain’s biggest trade unions is calling for the rate to rise. The Workers’ Commission has proposed hiking this tax to €15 (£13) per person, per night in July and August.
According to Sky News, it would mean four adults staying at a luxury resort for two weeks pay €840 (£736) in taxes during the height of the summer, up from €224 (£196) at today’s rates.
Not only would this raise money for the Government, but it is also hoped it would reduce visitor numbers. Excessive tourism has long been cited a a major problem for the islands, with numerous protests taking place over the past few years.
Many claimed it has forced locals out of areas due to unaffordable housing and a lack of living space due to many apartments being converted into AirBnbs. Others complain about the anti-social impact of tourists.