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Virus-hit Venice delays tourist tax to 2022
Venice said it would again delay the introduction of a tourist tax as it seeks to recover from the coronavirus pandemic that has decimated visitor numbers.
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People sit at tables along the canal, as the number of people infected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to rise, in Venice, Italy, November 14, 2020. (REUTERS/Manuel Silvestri)
V
enice said Friday it would again delay the introduction of a tourist tax as it seeks to recover from the coronavirus pandemic that has decimated visitor numbers.
The historic Italian city said the levy, targeted at day-trippers excluded from an existing tax on tourists staying overnight, will not be in place until January 1, 2022.
"In light of the current situation, linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have decided to make a big gesture to help encourage the return of tourists," said Michele Zuin, the city councillor for budget issues, in a statement.
Read also: Doge's Palace reopens as tourists flock back to Venice
Venice and its famous canals are usually packed with tourists and the new tax was intended to help cover the costs of keeping the city clean and safe.
Unlike the existing levy for stays in hotels or rented accommodation, it would apply to day-trippers, including those who arrive on cruise ships.
But Venice became a desert when coronavirus swept through Italy earlier this year, and ongoing restrictions around the world continue to hit tourist numbers.
