A MAJOR Spanish tourism destination will double its tax on tourists amid increasing tensions among locals and foreigners.  Catalan officials announced yesterday new legislation doubling the tourist tax in the region to fight mass tourism.  According to some reports it could rise to as much as €15 per night in Barcelona’s five-star hotels. Aerial view from Barcelona, Spain of the …

According to Portugal’s Infrastructure Minister, a high-speed rail will connect SPAIN and Portugal by 2032.  Vigo, a port city in Galicia, will be connected to the popular Portuguese destination Porto by a high-speed rail line.  Miguel Pinto Luz confirmed this plan at a Vigo event last week.  He said that both the Portuguese and Spanish governments are working to complete …

According to the hotel rates this year, these are Spain’s most affordable and most expensive destinations. The Spanish National Statistics Institute has calculated the most and least expensive hotels in Spain for 2025.  If you are looking for an affordable getaway, stay away from the Costa del Sol. Marbella has the most expensive hotels in the country.  Clocking in at …

IBIZA council and Airbnb have signed a ‘historic’ agreement to remove illegal tourist accommodation from the platform.  The ‘pioneering’ plan will remove ‘flagrantly’ illegal properties from the website, including caravans, tents, yurts and boats.  The agreement means properties will be taken down ‘without discussion or appeal’ in order to prevent costly legal delays.  Airbnb users who break the law may …

A man is standing on a balcony with a view of El Hierro. Spain’s secret eco paradise island that can power itself Credit: Shutterstock and Maxi Perez Overcrowded? Forget it costas, wild hen dos, and package holiday mayhem – Spain is hiding a breathtaking natural wonder that’s quietly making history. El Hierro – the small Canary Island is not only …

After a pilot in Madrid was bitten by an rogue spider, he was forced to fumigate a flight., This can cause delays in subsequent journeys. The pilot was allergic and had to be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs.  The aircraft was then fumigated in Madrid before continuing on to Vigo. Even so, passengers were nervously inspecting their seats to see if …

Although we are still in February, our thoughts turn to warmer weather. Olive Press Visit these five Mallorcan attractions this year. There are many hidden gems and popular tourist attractions. Each one offers something special. Plan your next weekend trip with this Olive Press travel guide. 1. Cala S’Amarador (above) This beach is ideal for families as it offers a …

You may be used to travelling to Europe without a Visa. But there is a new acronym that could influence your next vacation plans. It’s called ETIAS, or the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. Travellers from 59 visa exempt countries and territory will be required to apply once the system is launched before they set foot in any of …

When preparing for a vacation, almost everyone experiences stress. Did you know that simply worrying before a vacation does not cause any harm? Excessive worry can cause confusion.To ensure that you remember nothing at all and can plan your “journey” with precision, you must follow a plan and instructions.The mobile data can make your trip safe, memorable and unforgettable. https://esimplus.me? …

SPAIN’s Andalucia could introduce tough new laws and fines of up €600,000 on tourism. A new Sustainable Tourism Law set to come into force in Andalucia could see illegal tourist flats slapped with fines of up to €600,000.  The regulation received preliminary approval this Tuesday and increases fines for ‘unregulated tourist activity’ in all categories.  Since Covid-19, the anti-tourism sentiment …