Scotland is a popular destination offering countless idyllic staycation spots, for those who love both bustling cities and stunning countryside.
But a new legislation requiring tourists to pay a visitor's fee may change the face of tourism in the country.
On January 16, 2024, Members of Scottish Parliament (MSPs) will weigh in on whether the country should get the power to bring in a tourist tax, a bill introduced in May 2023.
If passed by the Scottish Parliament, local authorities would be given new powers to charge a levy on overnight stays.
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland's most popular tourist attractions
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This legislation proposes that the new levy would be a percentage of visitors’ accommodation costs.
It would apply to visitors staying in hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering accommodation, campsites and caravan sites.
However, wild campers and people in motorhomes and camper vans who pitch elsewhere would not be covered.
The Visitor Levy (Scotland) reads: "The Bill aims to allow a visitor levy, a type of fee or tax, to be charged on overnight stays in some types of accommodation.
"This means that a certain amount of money would be paid to the local authority every time someone stayed overnight in accommodation like a hotel, bed and breakfast or holiday cottage (unless it is the place where the person usually lives).
"Each local authority would be able to decide if it wanted to introduce a charge and what the level of the charge should be."
Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer suggested an introduction of a tourist levy could benefit locals.
He said: "Scotland is incredibly fortunate to be such an attractive tourist destination, but this puts a huge strain on local services, ranging from public toilets to bin collections.
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The Scottish highlands provide some incredible views
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“Tourists obviously don’t pay council tax, so a small levy on their overnight stays is a fair way to ensure that local residents aren’t left picking up the bill.
"Visitor levies are already common across Europe and beyond, including in top destinations like Paris and Barcelona. It is a small charge that will make a big difference here in Scotland."
Although some travellers could be put off by having to pay an extra fee, the introduction of a levy would mean more money going into the services they enjoy.
Popular staycation spot Cornwall could also introduce a tourist tax which would pay for the facilities people are using.
