BULGARIA’S MINISTER OF TOURISM ORDERED A CHECK AT IRAKLI BEACH

Bulgaria’s Minister of Tourism Nikolina Angelkova ordered a check in Irakli beach, Bulgaria’s Ministry of Tourism announced on 13th of June. Officials of the ministry inspected the coastal strip and found that there were no beach gear and no charges were collected from tourists. The reason for the inspection was some information on the internet that tourists were charged fees for using umbrellas and beds.

The report of the officials resulting from the on-site inspection showed that the photos circulated on the internet of price boards and beach beds were not from Irakli beach, but from a nearby beach Vaya. The strip of Vaya beach was rented out and there is an approved coast plan for placing beach accessories. According to the information collected by the ministry officials, tourists at Vaya beach are charged 6 BGN for an umbrella and a bed each and the package including food and drinks costs 36 BGN. A picture of the coastal strip will be taken to identify whether the approved plan for placement of beach gear and the requirement for 50% free zone were observed or not. Currently, there are no more than 25 umbrellas.

The Ministry of Tourism reminded that under the adopted amendments to the Black Sea Coast Development Act, Irakli, located in the northern part of Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, is an aera for ecofriendly tourism and any commercial activities are banned including concession or renting out. The government has provided lifeguard services to ensure the safety of the tourists.