By Bond Robertson 
If you are one of those who want to try their luck in catching a sea monster, you will have to be prepared to pay a little extra in the future.
Tourist tax planning
Scottish authorities are considering introducing a tourist tax in popular areas such as Loch Ness and other natural attractions in the Scottish Highlands. This is in line with a global trend where many popular tourist destinations, such as Venice, Mallorca, Berlin and Paris, already impose similar fees. Although these places require an additional payment, this has not scared off tourists.
Norway is also considering imposing a tourist tax.
In Norway, too, there are plans to introduce a tourist tax in selected locations, although exactly where or how it will be implemented has not been determined.
What will the tourist tax mean?
If passed in Scotland, the proposal would give hotels, campsites, B&Bs and holiday homes in the Highlands the right to charge tourists a surcharge. The money raised would be used mainly to improve services and infrastructure that visitors mainly use.
This reports Sky Newswhich also states that local politicians last year took the first step towards introducing a tourist tax by giving councils the opportunity to impose such a tax. Several councils in the Scottish Highlands are now considering implementing this, although the final price of the tax has not yet been decided.
Tourism – a crucial sector
Ken Gowans, a consultant who supports the proposal, points out that tourism is one of the most central industries in the region. He says the tax will play a crucial role in ensuring the maintenance and development of essential facilities and services on which the industry depends.
The Scottish Highlands, named one of the world’s best travel destinations by National Geographic in 2023, attracts millions of visitors every year. The region offers stunning attractions such as Ben Nevis, Loch Ness and the famous village of John O’Groats.
British cities impose tourist tax
Several cities in the UK have already introduced a tourist tax. Among others, Manchester requires £1 (around 14kr) per night for most paid accommodation, while Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole introduced a £2 per night per room charge in July, according to Sky News.
This development shows that it is becoming increasingly common to demand extra payment for experiences and stays at popular destinations – even when the attraction never appears, such as the Loch Ness sea monster.