Your trip to England can soon become a little costlier, as the country plans to roll out a tourist tax. The UK government has announced a plan that will give local leaders and mayors the power to charge visitors an extra fee for staying overnight. Here’s everything you need to know about this.
England May Introduce Tourist Tax
According to Euronews, the visitor levy or tourist tax in England is uncapped, but it is expected to be no more than 5% of the accommodation cost. The decision to introduce a tourist tax was recently announced by the UK government, but you should know that this is not uncommon in Europe. In July, Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, also introduced an overnight fee for tourists.
Reportedly, under the new plans, mayors in England will be able to charge a percentage of the total cost of a visitor’s overnight stay. The tax will apply to all kinds of tourist accommodation, including hotels, holiday rentals, B&Bs and guesthouses. All visitors, irrespective of their nationality or purpose of visit, will have to pay the tourist tax.
Also Read: Chai Pe Charcha In England: PM Modi And UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Bond Over Masala Chai
No More Than 5% Tax In London
According to Euronews, mayors will be able to choose how much they charge. The levy is expected to be no more than 5% of the bill for the overnight stay. Several mayors have already said they will keep it within this limit, including in London. The plan to introduce the levy is under consideration, and the fees are expected to be brought in before the end of 2029. However, it will be up to individual mayors to decide whether they want to introduce the tax in their areas.
Reportedly, England’s hospitality industry is not really happy with this new fee. They believe that the additional charge could lead to fewer visitor nights, which could impact their business. Moreover, tourists could also choose to avoid destinations where the tax applies and prefer to go to ones where there is no tourist tax.
Also Read: Edinburgh To Introduce 5% Tourist Tax; But Not Everyone Has To Pay!
What do you think of this additional fee? Do you think it is justified?
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FAQs
Is England planning a tourist tax?
Yes, local mayors and leaders in England will get the power to introduce an overnight visitor levy or tourist tax.
Which are the famous places to visit in England?
London, Bath, Manchester, Liverpool, and Oxford are some popular places to visit in England.
What can tourists eat in London?
Tourists can try fish and chips, pies, a full English breakfast, scones and other popular British foods.
