Tourists Tax: A Step Towards the Middle Ages?

Tourists Tax: 

Are We Heading Back to the Middle Ages? 

The global travel landscape is changing, and not for the better, according to many travelers and digital nomads. A growing trend of new tourist taxes and stricter visa rules is making some people feel like the world is closing its borders. Instead of welcoming visitors, it seems some countries are starting to view us as little more than walking wallets. The Rise of the Tourist Tax New fees are popping up everywhere, from hotel stays to airport arrivals. While governments claim these "tourist taxes" help fund local projects like infrastructure or conservation, critics argue it's just a new way to get cash from both locals and visitors. This trend isn't just about money; it’s a sign that some nations might not value tourism or expats as much as they once did. For many, this signals that these destinations are becoming unstable and unsafe for travelers. The focus seems to be on short-term financial gain, not on creating a welcoming environment. It’s no wonder some are calling for a boycott of these places, suggesting we should take our travel dollars elsewhere. 

Is the System Broken? 

This debate goes deeper than just a few extra fees. There’s a strong belief among some that governments and their taxes are flawed at their core. The argument is that authorities don't serve the interests of the people, but rather a "greedy elite." From this perspective, all taxes should be abolished because they don't truly reflect the needs of individuals. Another big problem is the focus on luxury tourism. Governments are pouring resources into attracting a small number of wealthy travelers, while opportunities for the average person to travel are shrinking. This approach is seen as unsustainable. For the tourism industry to really thrive, we need more affordable, high-quality options for everyone, not just the elite. 

The Digital Nomad Dream Is Fading

This shift is hitting the digital nomad community hard. Many digital nomads earn less than $1,000 a month, and the digital marketplace is becoming less of a meritocracy. The best-paying jobs often go to government-affiliated or military-focused bloggers, leaving little room for the average person to grow. This makes it harder than ever to achieve the financial freedom needed to live and work abroad. All of these factors—new taxes, stricter borders, and a struggling digital economy—paint a grim picture. It feels like we're moving backward, to a time where travel was a luxury for the few, not a right for the many.