Fees are as annoying as a slow walker during peak hour pedestrian traffic, as irritating as being placed on hold for over an hour and as unwanted as a ‘courtesy call’ from the bank.
They’re infuriating in every day life and even more so in travel – just thinking about those booking charges boils the blood.
But every now and then these seemingly unnecessary tourist levies are in place for a good reason and it often has to do with the upkeep of local attractions and sights.
That’s exactly the case for Botswana’s new entry fee, which was announced this week to help raise funds for conservation and tourism development in the country.
From 1 June 2017, people travelling into Botswana will be required to pay a US$30 fee at any port of entry including airports and border posts.
According to a statement from South African Airways, once payment is made via electronic machines, tourists will be given a receipt, which is to be presented to immigration officials. They will note the transaction and mark the passport with a stamp that will be valid for 30 days.
“The stated intention of the levy is to raise funds for conservation and tourism development in the country and to support tourism industry growth in Botswana.”
South African Airways statement