The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has issued the following update regarding ongoing challenges with Booking.com and the introduction of Edinburgh’s new visitor levy.
Statement from Booking.com
“We’ve been working closely with the Scottish Government, VisitScotland, STA, ASSC, and other industry associations to support accommodation providers in preparing for Edinburgh’s visitor levy. This has included supporting VisitScotland with the publication of a FAQs for businesses (on 25th September) to help ensure consistent and compliant implementation of visitor levies – both in Edinburgh, and in other local authorities that may introduce a similar levy.
Ahead of the City of Edinburgh Council’s 1st October launch date, we updated how the levy is displayed on Booking.com. This update took into account technical constraints and ensured alignment with other online travel platforms, so accommodation providers face a consistent process across different booking channels.
Like accommodation providers, we’ve been impacted by the complexity of the levy’s calculation. We continue to work with the Scottish Government and industry partners to raise implementation concerns and explore practical solutions that reduce burdens on businesses.“
The ASSC will continue to work closely with Booking.com, the Scottish Government, VisitScotland, and other industry stakeholders to address these implementation challenges and advocate for solutions that minimise disruption to self-catering businesses.
Members who are experiencing issues with how the levy is displayed or charged through Booking.com are encouraged to contact the platform’s partner support team directly and to inform the ASSC of any ongoing concerns.