By: P.T., STA
The government extended the validity of tourism vouchers until the end of 2021 on Thursday. Announcing the move, government spokesman Jelko Kacin said that the decision aimed to help the tourism sector, which has been badly hit by the epidemic.
Tourism vouchers were introduced as part of the third stimulus package, which was passed in parliament in late May.
They were given to all Slovenian residents – adults received a voucher of EUR 200 and minors EUR 50. The vouchers could be redeemed only in exchange for accommodation services.
The measure kicked in on 19 June and was available until the closure of all accommodation facilities during the autumn lockdown in late October.
The government first set down that the vouchers would be valid until the end of 2020, however already prior to the closure of hotels it acknowledged the possibility of extending the validity period.
The Financial Administration (FURS) data show that by 1 October some 883,100 vouchers worth EUR 113,74 million were redeemed.
Over two million persons received the vouchers, with the total value of the measure being EUR 356.9 million.
Holiday vouchers saved the summer tourism season in various places, particularly on the coast, in mountain resorts and spas.
On the other hand, the measure barely had an impact on the situation of accommodation providers in cities, and certain other destinations more popular among foreign tourists.