New Zealand to tax tourists to fund infrastructure

Mount Taranaki

New Zealand announced plans Friday to introduce a tourist tax and increase other fees for international visitors to fund infrastructure development in the face of a tourist boom.

Tourism numbers in the country of 4.5 million have surged by nearly a third in the past three years to 3.8 million in the year to April.

"This rapid growth has impacted on the costs and availability of publicly-provided infrastructure," tourism minister Kelvin Davis said.

"Many regions are struggling to cope and urgently need improved infrastructure, from toilet facilities to carparks."

A tax of NZ$25-35 (US$17-24) would be imposed on international visitors from mid-next year while price hikes for immigration fees and visas will take effect this November.

Australians and most Pacific Island forum countries will be exempt from the new charges.

Tourism is a key pillar of the New Zealand economy and the new tax is expected to raise up to NZ$80 million in its first year, which will be split between tourism infrastructure and conservation initiatives.

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The main opposition National Party claimed the new tax system would make New Zealand a "less attractive" destination.

But Davis believed the impact on tourist numbers would be minimal.

"When you're talking about the additional cost to, say, someone coming from the United States who are already paying about NZ$1,200, an extra NZ$25-NZ$30 isn't going to make that much of a difference," he said.

Source - TheJakartaPost

Booking.com reveals most affordable months to travel

Saint Petersburg

Online reservation platform Booking.com has released a list of the cheapest months in which to travel, based on holiday seasons with the highest traffic in the northern and southern hemispheres. From Miami to Kyoto; Saint Petersburg to Auckland, each city in the world has an affordable period for traveling.  

Southern Hemisphere

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is the place to go when you want to immerse in nightlife and master the legendary samba dance. The seaside city is home to the iconic Copacabana Beach, breathtaking mountain views and the art deco statue of Jesus Christ, Christ the Redeemer.

The most expensive time to visit Rio de Janeiro is in January, so choose December to enjoy 24 percent lower prices.

Where to stay: The exclusive Windsor Marapendi is located in the lively Barra da Tijuca. Enjoy fruit cocktails and a beautiful ocean view. Visitors can also relax in the hotel spa and indulge in local and international cuisine in the hotel restaurants.

Melbourne, Australia

Visiting trendy Melbourne means a chance to meet the lovely locals, visit white sandy beaches and become engrossed in the city's stunning art scene.

There is also the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne and the stylish urban neighborhood of Southbank, where some of the city's best restaurants and bars can be found.

The most expensive time to visit Melbourne is in January, so it is advised to go there in February, when the prices are down 11 percent.

Where to stay: Bella Apartments in Southbank is where you can shop and dine as you please. You can choose a one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment equipped with a complete kitchen and a living room with a view.

Auckland, New Zealand

This is the place to enjoy cultural fusions, gorgeous views and delectable cuisine. Visitors can go to inactive volcanic spots, natural beaches on the west coast or beautiful vineyards on Waiheke Island, a ferry ride away from Downtown Auckland.

The most expensive time to visit Auckland is in March, while in October, prices are down 15 percent.

Where to stay: The trendy CBD Viaduct Harbour allows you to enjoy amazing views with floor-to-ceiling windows. Just a few steps from the apartments, you can find the best bars, restaurants and shops in town. There are also exciting activities such as dolphin and whale watch tours and visits to the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere, the iconic Sky Tower.

Kyoto, Japan

Japan is always a good pick if you want to get lost in traditional cultures. Meet geishas in their colorful traditional attire or visit the spiritual temples awash in the pink colors of the spring.

The most expensive time to visit Kyoto is in March, so consider heading there in June to save up to 41 percent on travel costs.

Where to stay: To fully immerse in the culture and history of the former capital, spend your holiday in a traditional ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). NAZUNA Kyoto Nijo-tei offers traditional décor and furniture, as well as Wi-Fi and television. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful gardens and try out the outdoor wooden bathtubs.

Miami Beach, United States

Famous as the United States' playground, this art deco paradise is filled with excitement, sand and sea. There is always the charm of drinking cocktails at the beach, the thrill of riding jet skis across the sea or the bliss of parties in the heart of the city.

The most expensive time to visit Miami is in January, while the prices are down 42 percent if you go in September.

Where to stay: The luxurious Redbury South Beach offers a posh swimming pool and dishes inspired by the Mediterranean. Shop your heart out at the nearby Lincoln Road Mall.

Saint Petersburg, Russia

For a chance to soak in the richness of Russia’s art and history, Saint Petersburg is the right place to start. Visitors can go to the Mariinsky Theatre for opera and ballet shows, or head to the State Russian Museum to see the largest depository of Russian fine art in the city.

The most expensive time to visit Saint Petersburg is in June, so plan for an April trip as the prices are 49 percent lower.

Where to stay: To fully experience the art and culture of Saint Petersburg, a stay at the unique Soul Kitchen Hostel is recommended. Situated right in the heart of the city, along the Moika River embankment, the building was built in the 19^th century. A short walk from the hostel takes you to Saint Isaac’s Cathedral and the Hermitage Museum. A plethora of cafés, restaurants and bars are also nearby.

Source - TheJakartaPost