Balearic Tourism Tax…
The Balearic Islands have long been a favorite holiday destination in Europe. When you take a glimpse at the beautiful beaches, the rich culture, and the warm climate, it is very easy to see why. The group of Spanish Islands nestled in the Mediterranean Ocean have seen tourism undergo rapid growth since the 1950’s. While tourism brings much monetary benefits to the islands, in recent years economists have turned their attention to other factors. These factors include the social, cultural and environmental consequences that tourism influences.
Why the tax being iNTRODUCED
The Government of the Autonomous Community of the Balearic Islands decided to introduce the tourist tax on visitors to the Islands. This is in order to decrease the impact of tourism on the environment. Tourism has often affected natural ecosystems throughout the world. Because the Balearic Islands are one of the busiest tourist destinations in Europe, the effect on the environment and the natural resources can lead to a decrease in the quality of life for the local people.
It is no secret that tourism has had massive beneficial effects on the economy of the Islands. The Tourism Tax, will not only be used to improve life for the locals, tourists also benefit. The most urgent areas that need attention are water consumption and CO2 emissions. This tax will allow the upkeep of the Islands for many future generations of islanders and holidaymakers…
The Tourism Tax is due to be introduced from the 1st of July 2016
Persons under the age of 14 will be exempt. The tax is calculated per person per night. The amount you will pay will depend on whether you are staying during the high season or the low season. The cost is based on the type of accommodation you rent. The higher the star rating of your lodgings the higher the cost. While initially the tax can look like a small sum of money, it can very quickly add up. So that said, it is very important that you budget for this when you are travelling to the Balearic Islands. Below is a breakdown of the tax in Euros.
High Season: 01st of April – 31st of October Low Season: 01st of November – 31st of March
So if you are travelling for a weekend or the entire summer, remember to budget for the Tourism Tax, stay safe and pack your sun lotion…
¡Buen Viaje!…