Short-term rentals through platforms such as airbnb, which have been cited as the reason for the decline in hotel occupancy during the peak season in Turkey, have been banned in Florence, Italy, one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.
Citing the increase in rental prices as the reason for the decision, Florence Mayor Dario Nardella stated that the government's decisions on the sector were disappointing and that they took action.
Stating that there were less than 6 thousand ads on airbnb in 2016, and today this number exceeds 14 thousand, Florence Mayor Dario Nardella stated that rental prices increased by 42 percent in this period and 15.1 percent this year.
In line with the decision taken, landlords who rent their houses for a short period of time will be offered a 3-year tax reduction if they switch to normal renting.
However, Marco Stella, the regional coordinator of the Forza Italia party, which is in the ruling coalition, said that they will apply to the administrative court regarding this decision of the Florence local government.