Green expanses, high mountains and foaming seas by cliffs.

The Scottish Highlands have it all and then some. But the number of tourists has increased significantly and now the authorities want to introduce a special tourist tax to avoid mass tourism and improve the experience of the region.

The Scottish Highlands, with its dramatic and varied landscape, attract many tourists who want to enjoy nature and culture. It is estimated that six and a half million tourists visit the area each year.

But while the region thrives on tourism, it also puts a strain on tourist facilities and nature. The proposed tourist tax would go a long way towards improving infrastructure, building more public toilets and parking, The Independent reports. However, there has been criticism of the proposal for an additional tax on tourists.

Requires caution
“Tourism is vital to the Highlands, supporting 16,000 jobs in the region and attracting millions of visitors each year. Ensuring the country’s tourism industry is sustainable requires caution and while we welcome the Highland Council’s desire to invest in facilities to improve the tourist experience, we are aware of the tourism industry’s concerns that a tourism tax could dampen growth and impact jobs,” Chris Taylor, chief executive of VisitScotland, told The Independent.
Next week, a vote will be held on the proposal, which could come into effect next year.

Source: aftonbladet.se