Survey Reveals Tourists Prefer Domestic Travel and Budget-Friendly Hotels
Just 370 km from Ahmedabad, Diu has long been a favorite getaway for ‘dry-throat’ Gujaratis. However, the island’s allure seems to be fading as rising liquor prices and exorbitant civic fees are putting a dent in the tourists’ experience.
Known for its affordable liquor, Diu has recently seen a steep hike in prices, with some reportedly soaring up to three times the maximum retail price (MRP). Local hoteliers and wine shop owners claim that nearly two-thirds of the wine shop licenses have not been renewed, putting additional pressure on the remaining shops. Tourists now find themselves waiting for hours in line to purchase liquor at a reasonable price.
One hotelier shared, “Tourists who aren’t willing to pay triple the price for drinks at a bar often find themselves waiting in long lines to buy liquor at the regular price. Additionally, many families prefer not to consume alcohol in public spaces, which further adds to the inconvenience.”
According to a media report, a tourist from Ahmedabad, said, “A beer in a bar costs two-three times more compared to the same brand available on MRP at a wine shop. Also, a good scotch whisky peg of 60ml can cost from Rs 215 to Rs 4000, depending on the brand.” “If we want to consume liquor at a cheaper rate, we will have to stand in a line as if we are buying ration. This is how the Diu administration treats tourists?” he questioned.
Another tourist said, “I am wondering how the Diu authorities are promoting tourism? They are developing social infrastructure and good water sports on beaches, then why are parking fares and public toilets charges so high?”
He added, “I have come with my family and friends for two nights. Wherever we go, we have to pay Rs 60 as parking charge per hour. It is only Rs 20 per hour even in a tier-1 city like Ahmedabad. Why is the Diu administration robbing people?”
There were also complaints about the high cost of using public toilets. Tourists reported that they must pay Rs 20 per person, meaning a family of four ends up paying Rs 80 for just one visit.
Diu’s Collector, Rahul Dev Boora, responded, saying, “We are aware of the issues as different stakeholders have made representation to us about them. Since Diu shares a border with Gujarat, there were issues of liquor smuggling. So we had taken some precautionary measures.”
“But, as far as wine shops are concerned, we will look into it so that tourists don’t have to suffer. For paid civic services like ‘pay and park’, we are in the process of changing the agency for the same reasons.”