Many Greeks priced out of summer holidays due to high tourism costs
- Greece's tourism industry has surged, yet many locals struggle to afford holidays at home.
- Almost half of Greeks were unable to afford a vacation last year, contrasting sharply with the influx of foreign tourists.
- The privatization of beaches and luxury resort focus is leading to widespread dissatisfaction among local residents.
In Greece, a sharp increase in tourism has made it difficult for locals to afford their own summer vacations. Specifically, nearly half of the population couldn't manage a one-week holiday last year, ranking second highest in the European Union for holiday poverty. Despite the influx of foreign visitors, local Greeks are struggling due to rising costs associated with travel, accommodation, and leisure activities. As a result, many residents have opted for day trips rather than extended vacations, leading to a phenomenon known as 'holiday poverty'. Furthermore, traditional budget options like guesthouses are being replaced by luxury resorts, which cater primarily to tourists. This shift has made iconic destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos increasingly inaccessible for local families who once frequented these places. With many businesses staying open year-round to meet tourist demand, local workers find it challenging to take time off for holidays themselves, further exacerbating the issue. In addition to Greece, the trend of privatization of beaches in Europe is impacting holiday access. In places like Italy, numerous beaches are operated by private clubs, charging fees that are difficult for local beachgoers to afford. The dissatisfaction among British holidaymakers about the high costs of enjoying a day at the beach highlights a broader issue affecting travelers across the continent. Reports indicate that while beaches are supposed to be accessible to the general public, various fees for amenities prevent many from enjoying a basic summer experience. Concern is growing over what is being labeled 'holiday poverty', particularly as inflation continues to rise. The term, introduced by labor unions, describes the significant challenges faced by families trying to enjoy leisure time amid increasing living costs. Changing leisure practices and the focus of businesses on foreign tourists are likely to continue impacting locals adversely, raising important questions about the sustainability of tourism-driven economies.