UK sun-seekers dreaming of a Canary Islands escape are facing a new reality as local authorities roll out a double whammy of a tourist 'eco-tax' and a stringent clampdown on behaviour.
The new measures, driven by a wave of anti-tourism protests, are designed to tackle the environmental impact of mass tourism and curb the booze-fuelled antics that have plagued resorts.
The New 'Eco-Tax' Explained
Travellers heading to hotspots like Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria will now need to budget for an additional charge. The new levy will be applied to all tourist stays, directly funding environmental and conservation projects across the archipelago.
This move signals a significant shift towards sustainable tourism, but it means holiday costs are set to rise for millions of British visitors.
A Crackdown on Conduct
Beyond the new tax, tourists are being put on notice about a severe toughening of local laws. The infamous 'party zones' are being targeted, with authorities promising zero tolerance for misconduct.
Key rules now being enforced include:
- Public Drinking Ban: Consuming alcohol in the street or on public transport could land you a hefty fine.
- Strict Bar Licensing: Establishments face closure for serving alcohol outside permitted hours.
- Anti-Social Behaviour: Fines for being drunk and disorderly or causing a public nuisance have been increased substantially.
The message from the Canary Islands government is clear: the era of the unruly, cheap package holiday is over. They are actively encouraging a different type of visitor—one that respects the local environment and culture.
For UK tourists, the advice is to stay informed, respect the new regulations, and factor the additional eco-tax into their holiday budget to avoid any unwanted surprises.
