Britons looking to vacation in the Balearic Islands next summer may face an increase in tourist taxes. The CCOO, a prominent trade union in the Spanish islands, has suggested raising the current tourist tax to €15 per day (around £13.08), affecting travelers to popular destinations like Majorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. The proposed hike would be applicable during the peak months of July and August.
Currently, the Balearic Islands impose a tourist tax ranging from €0.5 to €4 per day (approximately £0.44 to £3.49), depending on the season and accommodation type. Children under 16 are exempt from this tax, and there is a 50% discount for longer stays after the eighth night. The tax revenue is allocated towards sustainable tourism projects and cultural heritage preservation.
If the increase is approved, a seven-night stay during peak season could cost each adult around £91.52 in tourist taxes. The CCOO clarified that the intention behind the higher tax proposal is not revenue generation but to discourage visitors. General Secretary José Luis García emphasized that the goal is to manage summer overcrowding by addressing both demand and supply issues.
The trade union is pushing for a halt on new tourist accommodations to reduce visitor numbers and attract higher-spending tourists. Additionally, they advocate for designating the islands as a “stressed area” due to the housing crisis, proposing the creation of 40,000 public housing units.
These measures are part of ongoing efforts to alleviate the strain of tourism on the Balearic Islands. Majorca, in particular, has faced criticism for being unwelcoming to British tourists, with anti-tourism protests contributing to the negative perception. Recent summers have seen protests across the islands, with tourists expressing frustration over overcrowding and delays at airports, leading some to reconsider future visits.
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