Another day and another destination seems to follow in the footsteps of Veniceand introducing a new tourist tax.
We know that tourist taxes are nothing new – Bhutan is known for charging travelers high prices since 1974 – but more places than ever have introduced the extra fees in an attempt to tackle overtourism.
And the newest hotspot that wants your money? Enter the village of Lauterbrunnen Switzerland.
If you are not a fan of skiing, you may not have heard of the Swiss village, located in the Alps. But it is a popular spot for snow sports enthusiasts as the surrounding mountains offer 213 km of slopes and 50 km of toboggan runs.
It is also famous for its dramatic waterfalls – there are 72 in the valley, some of which are as high as 400 metres.
The village was also featured in the James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service. George Lazenby's only appearance as 007 saw him race through Lauterbrunnen in a car chase.
Like its Italian counterpart, officials are now considering an entrance fee for day trippers coming to Lauterbrunnen.
A price of around £4.33 could be imposed, with Mayor Karl Näpflin adding that you would only have to pay in specific circumstances. “The exception are guests who have booked a promotion such as a hotel or an excursion or who come by public transport,” he said.
It means nothing that a tourist tax or levy is different from a 'city tax', which applies to people staying in a hotel, B&B, holiday home or hostel. They vary in price depending on location and type of accommodation, and are usually paid at check-out.
Tourist taxes are entrance fees intended to prevent overcrowding and generate revenue for upkeep and upkeep.
It is thought Lauterbrunnen wants to introduce the charge after locals complained about traffic jams and 'indecent behaviour' from visitors.
Tourist taxes are not the only measure popular cities are taking to deter visitors.
a huge barrier blocking the view of Mount Fuji in Japan has been installed at a popular photo spot to keep ill-behaved foreign tourists away.
And another Italian city, Milan, is looking forward to it ban on the sale of ice cream in the late evening – and other takeaways – because of the noise caused by partygoers, hungry after a night out.
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