The Italian government has introduced new measures that could affect British holidaymakers visiting the country. Last month, a ban on key lock boxes and other self-check-in systems for short-term rental properties was introduced. This ban was implemented after residents in Rome, Florence, and Milan sabotaged key lock boxes earlier this year in protest against short-term rental properties that drive up house prices. As a result of this ban, guests staying in short-term rental accommodation will now need to be met by the owners in person to receive the keys to rental properties, and property owners will have to confirm the identity of holidaymakers by checking their documents. The measure is aimed at keeping citizens safe and preventing potential dangers posed by individuals linked to criminal or terrorist organizations occupying rental properties.
Local authorities and police in Italy have started liaising with property owners and rental platforms to ensure the enforcement of these new measures. However, the introduction of the ban on key lock boxes and self-check-in systems may cause confusion for British holidaymakers who have already booked short-term rental stays in the country. The Italian interior ministry stated that the measure was necessary to prevent rental properties from being occupied by individuals whose identities are unknown to relevant police authorities, thereby posing a potential danger to the community. Additionally, the measures were introduced ahead of next year’s jubilee celebrations in Rome and to address concerns regarding the increase in house prices driven by short-term rental properties.
In addition to the ban on key lock boxes, earlier this year, Venice imposed measures to restrict tour groups of more than 25 people and banned the use of loudspeakers by tour guides. These measures were aimed at reducing disturbances and improving the quality of life for residents in the city. Meanwhile, Spain has also introduced new rules for holidaymakers, requiring Brits to provide additional personal details when staying at hotels or accommodation providers in the country. Among the 31 new pieces of information to be shared are home addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses, as well as details about group size and relationships to any children travelling with them.
For British tourists planning to visit Italy, it is important to ensure that their passport has at least three months remaining before they plan to leave the country. Visitors do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is recommended to have your passport stamped upon entry and exit, show proof of hotel booking confirmations, demonstrate sufficient funds for the duration of your stay, and provide evidence of travel insurance. Italy is one hour ahead of the UK and uses the euro as its currency. Flights from the UK to Italy typically range from 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the destination. Moreover, Italy is planning to increase its daily tourist charge, following a trend where UK seaside towns have begun taxing tourists as well.
Overall, the new measures introduced in Italy, such as the ban on key lock boxes and restrictions on tour groups and loudspeakers in Venice, are aimed at improving safety, reducing disturbances, and enhancing the quality of life for residents in these popular tourist destinations. British holidaymakers should be aware of these new regulations and ensure they comply with the requirements when visiting Italy. Additionally, providing the necessary personal details to accommodation providers in Spain and being prepared with the required documentation and funds when traveling to Italy can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday experience.
