Restaurants in Bruges charge tourists more than the locals
If you plan to visit Bruges this summer, you should know that restaurants have decided to charge tourists more than locals, according to the Belgian media.
Holidays come with many expenses but now your meal could also add up to the bill. Non-residents are charged up to 10% more to dine in the city and the practice is considered legal by the consumer protection agency.
What is even more unusual is that even visitors from other parts of Belgium are charged more, as restaurateurs offer discounts based on their clients’ accents.
In an interview with De Standaard newspaper, o restaurant owner explained that discounts are or the regulars and that he values building a good relationship with the locals. Moreover, he revealed that the accent is a good enough proof to offer the respective accent.
The controversial practice has been defended by the mayor of Bruges, Renaat Landuyt, who says that the city has become very expensive and it is important to value local residents.
Bruges is not the only city in Europe that has such a practice. In Venice, locals can also receive a 20% discount for their meals, boat rentals and other services.
The reason for the discount is similar to the one in Bruges – tourists have driven the prices up and even small discounts for locals can help.
Cuba is another example of dual pricing, with a currency for local and a different one for tourists. India and Cambodia also charge tourists more than the local for popular attractions such as the Taj Mahal and Angkor Wat.