Italy grants holiday coupons to low-income families
By IANSThursday, August 5, 2010
ROME - Italy has launched a special “holiday coupon” scheme to help low-income families afford a vacation.
The government’s decision to grant all citizens the right and pleasure of enjoying the country’s sunny beaches and cool mountains is also part of an effort to help in the country’s economic recovery by fuelling its tourism sector, Italian Tourism Minister Michela Vittoria Brambilla said.
“Citizens are always at the core of this government’s action. Holidays are important moments for physical and mental wellness, social cohesion and cultural enrichment aimed at bettering life quality,” Brambilla was quoted as saying by Xinhua.
The special vouchers will have a one-year validity. Families can use them anytime, with the exception of Christmas.
A website has been set up where citizens can apply for vouchers once they have booked their vacation, selecting from a wide range of tourist offers from hotels and resorts that have joined hands with the government.
The maximum value of each coupon is 1,240 euros, and the number of family members must be at least four.
