“This is not a tourism tax, it will affect us all” – that’s the stark warning from a group representing tourism bodies in Wales. The Welsh Tourism Alliance (WTA) has expressed its disappointment over the Welsh Government’s decision to proceed with a policy that could lead to job losses across the country. Wales Online readers are outraged at the thought of having to pay a tax to holiday in their own country.
The Welsh Government has announced that all overnight visitors in Wales will be required to pay a visitor levy of between 75p and £1.25 per night, but this change won’t come into effect until at least 2027. Despite being labelled as a “tourism tax”, the group representing tourism providers insists it goes beyond that.
The levy will apply at one of two rates to anyone staying overnight in Wales, whether they’re in an Airbnb, Vrbo, short-term let, hotel, hostel, or campsite. Each of Wales’ 22 councils will have the power to decide whether to introduce such a tax.
The earliest the charge could be implemented is 2027, following consultation with local communities.
However, the WTA has further warned: “The tourism industry in Wales is already reeling from the impact of Covid, the 182 day rule on holiday lets and the cost-of-living crisis. To place another stressor on an already fragile sector which employs over 20% of the workforce in some parts of Wales is not something we feel would be in the best interests of our country.”
Commenter Hund says: “For those who are raging – tourism tax is common throughout Europe and in many popular holiday areas. Some are only for hotels, some based on percentage of cost of stay, whilst others include Airbnb. Why should I subsidise services e.g. rubbish collection for rich hotel chains?”
Mostofwales replies: “Tourism tax was introduced across Europe due to mass tourism to help develop tourist areas. Wales doesn’t have mass tourism and the tourism tax is just a cheap way for the Welsh government to give local councils less money for development.”
Omg22 asks: “So what’s the score if you are Welsh and you holiday in Wales? I camp annually in the Gower, but live in the Valleys. I have to pay £0.75p per person per night to holiday in my own country! I don’t think so!”
Pastcaring adds: “Who really believes the fee will be £1.20 per night? More like £5 and more within a couple of years.”
DdraigGoch states: “Tourists, day-trippers and holidaymakers contribute greatly to the Welsh economy. Wales has many beautiful places to take a break or to visit, but so does Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, various parts of Scotland, other parts of England and Northern Ireland. Only the witless would give these people a reason to spend their money elsewhere.”
Leopard Lady agrees: “If we live in Wales and already pay council tax and then holiday in Wales then we shouldn’t have to pay it. I think this will destroy the tourism in Wales in favour of Scotland and the West Country.”
Styo adds: “Many overnight visits within Wales are not tourist based. A business trip for example adds nothing to the so-called “pressure” tourist areas feel. Plus we lack unique tourist destinations that can’t cope with the competitive disadvantage – Cardiff isn’t Paris and the Brecon Beacons isn’t the Alps.”
PJ372 asks: “Who would realistically pay a tourist tax to stay in Wales over a part of the UK that doesn’t? Then factor in the road network, increased alcohol tax, no meal deals and then a family holiday here becomes less appealing and affordable.”
Whoneedssleep says: “So any Welsh native / resident who decides to take an overnight break in their native land will now have to pay a stealth tax to do so? What the Hades is that all about?”
Anothergrumpy replies: “Is your problem paying tax in general, or making a small contribution to the community you’re visiting to help them keep their public toilets open?!”
Ridgeback3 replies: “Without paying the tax you already make a contribution to that community you visit by spending money whilst there(hotels, guest houses, camp site fees etc.)”
What do you think of the new tourist tax initiative? Will it help to improve holiday areas or drive tourists away from Wales? Have your say in our comments section.