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While all-inclusive resorts may be the most popular option for accommodations for tourists visiting Cancun, Airbnb gets its fair share of guests too.
Airbnb can often be a cheaper option, though typically lacking in the amenities that all-inclusives in the vacation destination are known for.
However, the budget-friendliness of Airbnb might be about to change because Airbnb prices in Cancun could go up in the near future due to a tax that hotels already have to pay.
The Environmental Sanitation Tax
The Environmental Sanitation Tax is a tax that the government began collecting from tourists visiting the destination in February of 2022.
The fee, which is charged per room per night, is added to the bills of guests staying at all hotel and timeshare properties.
@travelwithmeredith 🌴🌊 When staying at a resort in Quintana Roo, Mexico, don't forget about the environmental tax! This small fee helps protect the natural beauty that makes this destination so special. This tax is to be paid at the resort. 🌎💚 #TravelTips #EnvironmentalTax #QuintanaRoo #ResponsibleTourism #mexicotravel #travelagent #mexicotravelexpert ♬ Sunshine – WIRA
The Proposal To Include Airbnb In Collecting The Tax
As officials in Cancun begin to prepare for next year, the subject of Airbnbs not being included in collecting the sanitation tax was addressed.
Municipal president Ana Patricia Peralta made an announcement in meetings proposing that renters on all digital platforms like Airbnb should also pay the tax.
This would greatly increase the revenue that is used for infrastructure and sanitation.
@nomadicnajo #mexico I didn’t know, but now I know. #cancun #taxes #fees #travels #traveltok #nomadicnajo #paradise ♬ original sound – Katrina | Fitness Coach
What The Tax Means For Tourists
If digital platforms like Airbnb are required to start collecting that tax, which is almost certain, that cost will be passed along to the tourist.
While the amount is not very significant, it does add up for those visiting Cancun for longer stays.
For example, if you were to spend a month in an Airbnb in Cancun, the Sanitation Tax would amount to around $112.
@bwjagents I gotta pay a tax to go to Cancun?!🤬 ..wait, it’s how much?😍 #fyp #cancun #vacation ♬ original sound – BWJ Travel
Why Airbnbs Don’t Currently Collect The Tax
Initially, Airbnb owners were not required to collect the Environmental Sanitation Tax.
The law only stated that hotels, timeshare hotels, and accommodation facilities were required to collect it.
This has led to an unfair advantage for Airbnb when it comes to pricing.
Airbnbs In Cancun
There are over 40,000 Airbnbs and vacation rentals in Cancun and the rest of the Mexican Caribbean, with the majority in Cancun.
Airbnb rates currently start at around $20 a night and can go up to hundreds of dollars a night, depending on the size and location of the property and the amenities that they offer.
According to recent reports, Airbnb is maintaining around a 60 percent occupancy level in Cancun.
@marciab4242 #fypシ #viral #airbnb #travel #traveltiktok #airbnb #mexico #cancunmexico #vacation #paradise ♬ Don Toliver No Idea But its latin – CalixtoIVy
Airbnb Vs. Luxury All-Inclusive
While Airbnbs might offer more space for travelers, they certainly don’t typically come with the kind of amenities you’ll find at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun.
Some travelers are okay with this and prefer to have the space and the kitchen to prepare meals.
But for those that don’t need those things, an all-inclusive is the best option because you book your vacation and the planning is done.
Once you arrive you’ll be able to enjoy unlimited dining, drinking, room service, and more all for the price you initially pay upfront for your hotel.
@mtinatravels Reply to @sugmaligmaaa Airbnb vs. all-inclusive resort? Here are my thoughts. #traveladvisor #smallbusinessowner #internationaltravel #allinclusiveresort #traveltheworld ♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show
Airbnbs And Safety In Cancun
Another thing to consider when trying to decide between an Airbnb and a hotel is the safety factor.
Recently an Airbnb was found to be listed on the site that is in one of the worst areas of the city.
It’s important that if you do opt for an Airbnb, you know exactly where it’s located in Cancun.
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