British tourists are turning their backs on Spain after the country introduced a controversial new tourist tax, leaving many scrambling to cancel their summer holidays.
The unexpected levy has sparked outrage among UK travellers, with some claiming the additional cost has made their dream holiday unaffordable. Spain, long a favourite destination for Brits, now risks losing millions in tourism revenue as bookings plummet.
Why Are Brits Abandoning Spain?
The new tax, which applies to all visitors staying in hotels or rental accommodation, adds a significant extra cost to holidays. For a family of four, this could mean paying over £100 extra – enough to make many reconsider their plans.
"We've had to cancel our trip to Majorca," said one frustrated holidaymaker from Manchester. "With flights already so expensive, this tax was the final straw."
How the Tax Could Backfire
Tourism experts warn this move could seriously damage Spain's economy:
- British tourists account for over 20% of Spain's tourism income
- Many are now considering cheaper alternatives like Turkey or Greece
- Spanish hoteliers report a 15% drop in UK bookings already
The Spanish government insists the tax will fund environmental projects, but critics argue it's simply pricing out ordinary families.
What This Means for Your Holiday
If you've already booked:
- Check if your accommodation includes the tax in the price
- Contact your travel agent about possible refunds
- Consider travel insurance that covers policy changes
For those still planning a trip, it might be worth looking at alternative destinations before prices rise elsewhere.
The tourism industry is watching closely to see if Spain will reverse its decision as the summer season approaches.
