Should we pay to maintain Italian cities?
The decision by the Italian government to allow cities to effectively tax tourists from next year will raise the debate about who should pay for the upkeep of destinations.
It seems likely that visitors to Venice and Florence will be taxed up to five euros (£3.40) each a day. The government has cut funding to the cities and this is a way of making up the shortfall.
The mayor of Venice says the new tax is required for vital restoration work and the construction of flood barriers.
But should Italian tax payers, rather than tourists, be footing the bill? Is it right that the Italian government can cut funding and then just expect visitors to pick up the pieces?
Other cities such as Rome and Naples are considering a tax, while Turin said its visitors would be charged only one or two euros a day.
Some travel companies think it sends out the wrong message to holidaymakers, who already perceive Italy to be expensive.
What’s your view? Do you think it’s right and would it stop you from visiting these cities?
Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore
Tuesday, January 31st, 2006
My name is Alan Potts and I'm the Editor of the UK Ferry Tickets web site and Managing Director of BUYability Limited. You can connect with me or keep up to date with new posts on this blog via the following social media sites: 
