Sun-seeking British holidaymakers are facing an unexpected battle on the idyllic shores of Greece, as a perfect storm of overcrowding and aggressive sunbed policies threatens to ruin the classic Mediterranean escape.
The issue has reached a boiling point on popular islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu, where tourists are reporting scenes of pure chaos from dawn. The now-infamous 'sunbed wars' see holidaymakers rushing to claim a prized spot, often before even having breakfast, only to be met with exorbitant fees and a severe lack of space.
The Price of a Patch of Sand
What was once a simple pleasure has become a costly ordeal. Tourists are being quoted staggering prices of up to €100 for a pair of sun loungers and a parasol for a single day. Many feel held hostage by the system, forced to pay up or forfeit any chance of a comfortable day at the beach.
The practice of 'reserving' sunbeds with towels for hours on end, often with no one using them, has further inflamed tensions, leading to arguments and a genuinely stressful holiday environment.
A Local's Warning: 'It's a Mess'
The situation has become so dire that locals are speaking out. One Cretan restaurant owner didn't mince words, describing the current atmosphere as a 'mess' that is severely damaging the reputation of Greek tourism. The relentless greed, he suggested, is pushing visitors away and tarnishing the welcoming spirit Greece is known for.
More Than Just Sunbeds: A System Under Strain
The sunbed scandal is merely a symptom of a larger issue. Popular resorts are buckling under the pressure of a massive post-pandemic travel surge. This has led to:
- Overcrowded Beaches: A critical lack of personal space, making relaxation impossible.
- Soaring Prices: From sunbeds to snacks, tourists are feeling the pinch at every turn.
- Deteriorating Experience: The dream of a peaceful, picturesque getaway is rapidly fading for many.
While the Greek government has attempted to intervene with regulations, including a rule that sunbeds must be spaced at least four metres apart, enforcement appears lax. For many travellers, the damage is already done, prompting them to reconsider their choice of destination for future summer holidays.
