The Greek government has announced plans to impose a €20 fee on each tourist visiting two of the most popular islands in the Cyclades archipelago: Santorini and Mykonos. Santorini, renowned for its white-washed buildings, unique culture,and breathtaking sunsets, welcomes an average of 17,000 tourists daily during peak season. The island's permanent population is only around 25,000. Mykonos, a paradise for those seeking a vibrant nightlife and relaxed atmosphere, faces a similar influx of visitors.
Thousands of tourists flock to these stunning destinations daily, arriving by plane, ferry, and cruise ship. This influx has created unbearable living conditions for the local Greek population. Driven to despair by soaring housing and food prices,as well as a water shortage, residents of Santorini and Mykonos have voiced their discontent with the excessive tourism.
In response, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced a €20 fee for each cruise ship passenger wishing to disembark on Santorini or Mykonos. He emphasized that "Greece does not have a structural problem with overtourism.In some places, at certain times of the year, there are serious problems that we have to deal with. Cruise tourism has put a strain on Santorini and Mykonos, and that is why we have decided to take action."
A portion of the revenue generated from the cruise tourism fee will be allocated to local communities to improve infrastructure and protect the environment. However, it remains to be seen whether a €20 fee will be sufficient to deter tourists drawn not only by the islands' beautiful landscapes but also by the opportunity to rub shoulders with celebrities,politicians, and financial tycoons who have long made these places their holiday destinations. We will have to wait until next summer to find out.
