Greece Takes Action Against Overtourism, Housing Crisis, and High Cost of Living

Greece’s Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, announced a series of measures aimed at tackling overtourism, the housing crisis, and the rising cost of living. These measures include fees for cruise passengers, restrictions on short-term rentals, and tax incentives for long-term rentals. The government also announced a €2 billion mortgage relief program and plans to maintain a budget surplus. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive approach to ensure sustainable growth and improve the lives of Greek citizens.

Fujairah’s Visa-Free Policy Boosts UAE Tourism

Fujairah, a scenic Emirati city on the Gulf of Oman, is attracting international tourists with its new visa-free policy for 55 countries, contributing to the UAE’s growing tourism industry. The country saw a significant increase in international visitors in 2022, with India leading the way, followed by Saudi Arabia and the UK. This growth is fueled by the UAE’s investments in infrastructure, luxury accommodations, and diverse attractions.

Chandigarh Aims to Elevate Tourism with Focus on MICE under Swadesh Darshan 2.0

Chandigarh is gearing up to enhance its tourism offerings under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 initiative, with a particular focus on developing its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism potential. A recent report highlights the city’s strengths in hosting corporate events and large-scale conferences, recommending the establishment of a dedicated MICE Promotion Bureau and a state-of-the-art convention center to further boost its appeal.

Italy Considers Tourist Tax Hike to Curb Overcrowding and Promote Responsible Tourism

Italy, a global tourism powerhouse, is considering a significant increase in its tourist tax to address the growing problem of overtourism and promote responsible travel. The proposed hike, which could see the tax increase to €25 for luxury suites, has sparked debate and opposition from tourism groups. While the government emphasizes the need for sustainable tourism, the potential impact on visitor numbers remains uncertain.

Oktoberfest Boosts Munich Hotel Bookings by 32%

Oktoberfest is driving a surge in Munich hotel bookings, with reservations expected to make up 32% of the city’s total bookings this fall. Room rates are soaring, with an average price of €416 during the festival, a 59% increase over typical autumn rates. This surge in demand underscores the festival’s significant impact on local tourism and presents a valuable opportunity for hotels to optimize their revenue strategies.

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