A series of new climate-focused tourism fees could be the key to preserving some of the world's most beloved – and vulnerable – destinations.

Your next holiday may be slightly more expensive than you expect – and it's not just because of inflation. Around the world, a growing number of destinations are introducing new climate-focused fees on hotel stays, ferry tickets and admission to national parks and other protected areas.

But even though paying more for a trip may feel frustrating, these new fees could help ensure some of your favourite destinations survive in a world of rising seas, record heat and natural disasters.

In August 2023, wildfires swept through Hawaii's most historic town, Lahaina, in the heart of Maui. Sparked by drought and fanned by hurricane winds, the blaze killed 102 people and destroyed more than 2,000 buildings, making it one of the deadliest climate-related wildfires in US history.

This May, Hawaii took an unprecedented step by enacting the US's first tourist tax explicitly tied to the climate crisis. Known as the Green Fee, the bill adds an additional 0.75% on top of existing accommodation taxes. The fee is expected to raise $100m annually for wildfire recovery, reef restoration and climate adaptation starting in 2026.

In a press statement, Hawaii's Governor Josh Green said the new law addresses the growing impact that hosting 10 million tourists has on the islands and reflects a broader strategy to respond to the increasing frequency of natural disasters.

"This isn't just a surcharge," Susan Fazekas, a Maui-based hiking guide and owner of Awapuhi Adventures told the BBC. "Visitors come here for the natural beauty – the waterfalls, reefs and rainforest trails – but those very resources are under strain. Asking them to contribute to the care of these places is not a burden; it's a chance to be part of their preservation. It's also a way to honour the kuleana (shared responsibility) we all share in protecting Hawaii's future."

As climate-related disasters intensify, other destinations around the world are also rethinking how tourism revenue is collected and where it goes.

In January 2024, Greece replaced its overnight stay tax with a Climate Crisis Resilience Fee. Travellers now pay €0.50 to €10 a night, depending on hotel class and season, with surcharges of up to €20 per person on popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini during peak periods. The government expects to raise €400m annually, which will be directed towards water infrastructure, disaster prevention and ecosystem restoration.

Elsewhere, Bali introduced a 150,000 rupiah (£6.88) fee for international........

© BBC