01-05-2025
Spanish holiday hotspot postpones plan to hike tourist tax in respite for Brit travellers
SPAIN'S favourite tourist destination has delayed its plan to hike its tourist tax on visitors.
The proposed tax, which could cost visitors €15 a day (£12.74), has been delayed to October by the regional government over fears around legal challenges.
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The bay of Cala Sa Boadella Bay, Costa Brava, is one of the One of the irresistible cliff top views in Catalonia
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Brits swilling sangria in Barcelona are becoming increasingly controversial
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Thousands took to the streets of central Barcelona last month to demand lower housing costs
British
Catalonia, which is home to tourist hotspot
The region is the most popular tourist destination in the country, and its capital, Barcelona, is British holidaymakers' favourite European city destination.
Rather than whacking up the tax, which currently stands between €6-11, Catalonia's government delayed the move at the last minute yesterday to pursue parliamentary approval.
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Currently, the severity of the levy is calculated according to how luxurious tourist lodgings are.
Even cruise ship passengers can't escape the charge, which is calibrated in line with the hotel star system.
For example, at present,
Just yesterday, Locals flocked to the streets, squirting
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The attack marks the start of a long
Spain expects to surpass last year's record of 94 million tourists, with tourist arrivals in Catalonia up 10% in the first two months of 2025.
Shockingly, this is a conservative increase compared to the 13% jump in tourists flocking to Spain's capital, Madrid.
But still, Barcelona's room rates ballooned disproportionately, rising 10% in the year before March, 7% more than Spain's average
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In 2024, the historic city received over 30million visitors-- that's nearly half the UK's entire population.
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The majestic vistas of Lloret de Mar beach, Catalonia
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Medieval Mura, which dates back to 978, would also be subject to the tax
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Costa Brava beach is now besieged by millions of tourists every year
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Paella punters have been given a reprieve on the hike to a tourist tax in Barcelona until at least October
This has put mounting financial pressure on Barcelonians, and fury is building as many feel priced out of their home city.
The Mayor of Barcelona promised that at least 25% of tax revenue will go directly into a pot to alleviate housing shortages and spiralling rents.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Barcelona's association of
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Tourist Mistakes that are costing you Money
Travel writer Lee Bell recently revealed how holidaymakers heading to Barcelona can make their trip a whole lot cheaper from transport tips to dinners out.
First off, Lee recommended swapping the airport taxi for a local bus, which will save solo travellers around €20.
He added: "Dodge the pricey cocktails before a night out and instead head down to Can Paixano - or what the locals call 'La Xampanyeria' (champagne bar) where you'll find a 'copa de cava' for just €1 a pop.
"Ask for a 'clara' - essentially a Spanish shandy made with Fanta Limón - at practically any bar. It's not only cheaper but it's a tasty, more refreshing option for when the temperatures soar."
Read more of Lee's money-saving tips,
