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A British seaside town is offering cruise ship passengers a welcoming port in a storm of public opinion after some European cities began raising tourist taxes and protesting against visitor numbers.
In cities like Barcelona, the large holiday pleasure boats have grown increasingly unpopular with local authorities and residents becoming more and more hostile.
Tourists hoping for a quick visit to the Catalan capital have been warned they could soon see the current £7 visitor tax rise if they stay for less than 12 hours.
The Spanish move follows a trend across Europe of restrictions being imposed on cruise ships, with the iconic Italian city of Venice banning years ago these large vessels from certain areas, and similar plans being adopted in Santorini, Greece, and Dubrovnik, in Croatia.
However, far from raging against the crowds, the small town of Fowey in Cornwall has become one of the few destinations still welcoming cruise ship passengers with open arms.
Records of the beautiful little fishing port, home to just over 2,000 people, date back to before the invasion of William the Conquerer.
And today the townspeople welcome the invading throngs of cruise ship passengers who come to sample the charm of a traditional Cornish seaside town and try some of the local delicacies.
Fowey is becoming increasingly popular internationally and is now even in the running for the title of “Destination of the Year” for cruise liners, which will be announced at a glitzy awards ceremony in Spain later this month.
Harbour master Captain Paul Thomas told the BBC it was amazing to reach the final shortlist alongside much bigger cities like Dubai. He said: “This is a fantastic accolade for Fowey Harbour.
“Although only a small port in Cornwall, we guarantee the warmest of welcomes and are proud of the amazing choice of bespoke experiences that we can offer cruise passengers.”
According to tourist information site Fowey.co.uk, the town offers a rich variety of activities for tourists coming on land to enjoy.
It states: “There is a wealth of things to see and do in and around the Fowey estuary, browse this section for great ideas on some of the leisure activities and attractions that are on offer.
“A holiday in Cornwall would not be complete without a trip to the beach, our beach guide will give you details of those close to the Fowey Estuary. We also have a great many places of interest in the area including historical sites, landmarks, nearby towns and villages, fabulous gardens and some fascinating houses and castles.”
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