Assobalneari, low turnout at beach establishments due to economic crisis

Rome, 8 August (LaPresse) – ‘In recent days, some Italian newspapers have fuelled a media storm over the alleged “expensive beaches”, claiming that the prices charged by beach establishments are so high that they prevent many families from spending their holidays at the seaside.’ This statement was made by Fabrizio Licordari, President of Assobalneari Italia – Federturismo Confindustria. ‘Assobalneari Italia feels it necessary to clarify that this representation does not correspond to reality. The Italian beach resort system is extremely diverse and offers solutions for all budgets, with rates and services proportionate to the different needs of the public, exactly as is the case in the hotel and camping sectors,’ he added. ‘Tourists can choose between establishments offering essential services and more fully equipped facilities, in different locations and contexts, tailoring their spending to their means. Therefore, attributing the decline in visitor numbers exclusively to “unsustainable” prices does not reflect the real complexity of the phenomenon.’ "The causes of this decline in visitor numbers are to be found in the serious economic crisis gripping Italian families. The increase in the cost of living – bills, fuel, rent and food – has significantly reduced purchasing power. In many cases, even with two family incomes, the resources available do not allow people to spend on holidays as they did in the past, leading to savings choices that penalise tourism, particularly on weekdays," he continues.