**Increasing Tourist Charges and Taxes: Essential Information for Travelers in 2024**
As international travel returns to levels seen before the pandemic, numerous popular locations are facing issues related to overtourism, environmental pressure, and infrastructure demands. In reaction to these challenges, an increasing array of countries and cities are either introducing or raising tourist fees and taxes. While these extra expenses may appear burdensome, they generally aim to promote sustainability, enhance infrastructure, and improve the overall travel experience. Here’s an in-depth overview of the newly established fees and taxes that travelers should keep in mind for 2024.
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### **New Entry Systems in the European Union: ETIAS and EES**
Traveling to Europe will soon entail a small extra fee. Beginning in 2024, the European Union is set to launch two new systems: the **European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)** and the **Entry/Exit System (EES)**.
– **ETIAS**: Visitors from visa-free countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia will be required to pay a €7 fee to secure ETIAS authorization before entering the EU. This procedure is anticipated to be quick and simple, functioning as a security protocol for tracking visitors.
– **EES**: This system will substitute traditional passport stamps with biometric data capture, including facial recognition and fingerprint scans. Although this system doesn’t require an additional fee, it aims to facilitate border crossings and bolster security.
These modifications underscore Europe’s dedication to modernizing its border management while generating revenue to fund these projects.
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### **Local Tourist Taxes in Europe**
Numerous European cities are taking action to tackle overtourism by increasing tourist taxes. Here are some noteworthy cases:
– **Amsterdam, Netherlands**: Renowned for its stunning canals and lively culture, Amsterdam has implemented the highest tourist tax in Europe. Tourists will now pay an average of €22 per night in taxes, rising from €15, as the city seeks to mitigate the pressures of mass tourism.
– **Barcelona, Spain**: Barcelona has increased its nightly tourist tax to €3.75, up from €2.75, to address housing shortages and manage the steady influx of visitors. The city continues to face challenges related to overtourism, particularly in its historic districts.
– **Venice, Italy**: Famous for its canals and historic architecture, Venice is introducing a €5 fee for day visitors who do not stay overnight. This initiative aims to alleviate the overwhelming influx of short-term visitors while promoting longer stays.
– **Greece**: Popular islands such as Mykonos and Santorini will now impose a “climate resilience tax” during peak season (March to October). The fee varies from €0.50 to €10 per night, depending on the type of accommodation.
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### **Global Tourist Fees Outside of Europe**
Tourist taxes extend beyond Europe. Other locations are also increasing fees to confront local issues:
– **Brazil**: Beginning April 10, 2024, travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Australia will be required to pay $160 for a visa to enter Brazil. This resumed charge is part of a reciprocal policy and could discourage some travelers, particularly those planning brief visits.
– **Bali, Indonesia**: Bali has launched a new tourist tax of 150,000 rupiah (approximately $9.60 USD) per individual. The revenue is aimed at fostering sustainable tourism, enhancing cleanliness, and developing public transportation infrastructure.
– **Galapagos Islands, Ecuador**: The entry fee for the Galapagos National Park will increase from $100 to $200 in August 2024. This hike is intended to finance environmental conservation efforts and manage the fragile ecosystem of these islands.
– **Quintana Roo, Mexico**: Home to popular locations like Cancun and Cozumel, Quintana Roo has instituted a tax on cruise ship passengers. This follows a growing trend of taxing cruise travelers, seen in places like New York City, Scotland, and the Virgin Islands.
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### **Emphasis on Sustainable Tourism**
Many of these charges are being promoted as essential for sustainability and environmental protection. For instance:
– **Denmark** is exploring a proposal to impose a charge between $9 to $56 per flight, with the proceeds designated for achieving carbon-neutral aviation by 2030. This ambitious initiative accentuates the increasing focus on sustainable travel.
– In **Bali**, the newly introduced tourist tax is being advertised as a means to “protect the nature of Bali,” although details on how the collected funds will be utilized remain unclear.
– The **Galapagos Islands** fee increase is directly related to conservation efforts, as tourism continues to escalate, putting pressure on the islands.
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### **Biometric Technology: Expedite and Secure Travel**
Although some of these charges may seem bothersome, they often provide advantages for travelers. Systems like ETIAS and EES in Europe utilize biometric technology to expedite and enhance the efficiency of border crossings. These technologies, including