The Algarve municipality of Portimão in Portugal has launched a tourist tax that anyone visiting will need to pay from today.
Holidaymakers have shared their fury at the new rules that will see them paying more for their family holidays.
The charge comes in at €2 (£1.70) per person per night if visiting between April and September, with the free dropping by half to €1 (85p) between October and March. Children under the age of 13 are exempt from the tax.
Families preparing to jet off this year have shared their fury over the charge, with some saying they would not go there on holiday as a result.
Portimão has introduced a new tourist tax
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One GB News reader stated: “Spain first now Portugal. Us Brits have helped build these countries up with tourism. It’s such a shame.
“I was going to go to Portugal but if I’m not wanted, I guess I go where I am wanted. I get they don’t want the kind that can’t take their drink, but don’t put us all under the same banner.”
Another said if Portugal continues to put up taxes “see how many still want to go there. I think visitor numbers would drop by 75 per cent, see how long their tax lasts then”.
A third commented: “Well looks like I won’t be visiting Portugal since they don’t want tourists,” while another GB News reader simply called the tourist tax “outrageous”.
Airline Jet2 has warned about the new fee in a message to customers. They said: “As a responsible tour operator we know it is important to keep you informed of any changes to your holiday.
“With this in mind, we have been made aware of the introduction of a tourist tax implemented by the municipality of Portimão. The tax includes the resorts of Praia de Rocha, Praia do Vau and Alvor.
“Charges are as follows: April to October – €2 per person per day. November to March – €1 per person per day.”
It added: “Tourist tax charges will be applicable to all bookings and will need to be paid locally upon arrival.”
The rule comes into effect today, April 10, meaning all visitors travelling to Portugal from now on must pay the charge.
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Over 13s will be charged nearly £2 per day
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The fee has been introduced to help maintain the city and improve facilities benefiting tourists.
Portimão Mayor Isilda Gomes explained it could raise “a few million euros” which would go towards the upkeep and cleanliness of the city.
Mayor Gomes continued: “The rates are extremely fair. The funds will boost the city’s tourism development.”
