Spanish island loved by Brits introduces pay and display machines on popular beaches

Gran Canaria Beaches Introduce Pay-and-Display for Sunbeds

Popular beaches in Gran Canaria, a favoured Spanish island for holidaymakers, have installed pay and display machines for sunbed rentals. Several well-known resorts across Gran Canaria have introduced this new payment system for sun loungers and parasols on their beachfronts.

New Payment System at Popular Resorts

Tourists visiting El Perchel, Puerto Rico, or Playa de Mogán will need to utilise the newly implemented cash payment system to hire sun loungers or parasols. The initiative, launched by Mogán council on April 11th, aims to enhance convenience for beachgoers, particularly those preferring to pay with cash. The beaches now feature newly installed machines, resembling parking meters, for this purpose.

Cash and Card Payment Options Available

Gestiona Mogán, the municipal company managing the service, has streamlined the process. Users select their desired service at the machine, complete the payment, and receive a printed ticket to present during their rental period.

Pay-and-Display Machines for Cash Payments

For individuals wishing to pay with cash, the pay-and-display system offers a straightforward solution via the newly installed machines.

Card Payments via Beach Attendants

Alternatively, beachgoers who prefer card payments can bypass the machines and approach beach attendants. These attendants are equipped with portable card terminals to process transactions.

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Mogán Council Explains Initiative

Willy García, representing Mogan Town Council, stated to Canarian Weekly that “Previously, card payment was the sole option due to security concerns.”

He further clarified, “However, numerous beach visitors have requested the ability to pay with cash.”

“Following a review of various alternatives, we opted for these payment machines,” García added.

He noted that the initial deployment is concentrated on the busiest beaches, emphasising that “providing versatile and convenient payment methods” for both “visitors and residents is a key priority”.

Tourist Tax Reinstated and Briefly Suspended

In related news, Mogán recently reintroduced its tourist tax last month. This measure, intended to generate revenue for local services and infrastructure, had faced opposition from hospitality providers who voiced concerns about potential negative impacts on the local tourism sector.

Mogán’s tourist tax, set at €0.15 (approximately £0.13) per person per day, applies to individuals over 16 staying in hotels, holiday accommodations, or other tourist lodgings.

However, its implementation on March 11th was briefly suspended following a legal challenge from the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism Entrepreneurs (FEHT). The FEHT cited “confusing” and “poorly written” tax regulations, according to Canarian Weekly.