Tourism trends shift as Dutch VAT increases and Belgian travelers seek sun

The tourism sector in the Netherlands is facing challenges due to a significant increase in VAT, which has risen from 9 percent to 21 percent for hotels, pensions, and holiday parks. Industry organization HISWA-RECRON reports that entrepreneurs are struggling to absorb these costs, leading to higher prices for guests. For instance, a weekend trip could cost travelers an additional 100 to 150 euros. This tax hike also impacts competitiveness, particularly for parks near the borders of Germany and Belgium, where VAT rates remain lower.

In Belgium, travel trends for the autumn holiday season show a continued preference for sunnier destinations. According to TUI Belgium, the Canary Islands remain a popular choice for Belgian travelers looking to escape the unpredictable autumn weather, offering a combination of pleasant temperatures and diverse accommodation options.