Catalan coastal towns protest tourist apartment regulations

Several coastal municipalities in Catalonia are protesting a new decree (3/2023) regulating tourist apartments. A dozen local councils, including several in the Alt Empordà region such as Roses, Llançà, and Port de la Selva, have joined a manifest or passed motions opposing the regulation. Critics argue the decree lacks sufficient data and proportionality, potentially harming the local economy and reducing accommodation availability. Local authorities are calling for a dialogue with the Generalitat to review the measure, noting that tourist housing is a cornerstone for many businesses in the Costa Brava.

In Barcelona, the hotel sector reported a stable summer season despite challenges posed by a surge in last-minute bookings. The Barcelona Hotel Guild noted that while occupancy remained steady—reaching 88.7% during July and August—the unpredictability of late reservations has complicated planning and management. International demand, particularly from the United States and the United Kingdom, drove much of the activity. Although occupancy levels were slightly higher than in the previous year, rising inflation and operational costs prevented significant increases in overall revenue satisfaction.