Warnings Issued: Unshod Strolling, Swimming Attire and Begging Forbidden in Italian Seaside Village - Restriction Implemented: Barefoot running, swimming, and begging prohibited in an Italian coastal village
In the picturesque coastal town of Portofino on the Italian Riviera, a new ordinance has been introduced to maintain decorum and tourism standards [2]. The regulations, which came into effect this year, prohibit walking barefoot or wearing swimwear outside designated beach or pool areas [1].
Visitors to Portofino should be aware that strolling around town in just swimwear off the beach or pool premises is not allowed. The fines for violating these swimwear regulations can be significant, although the exact amount for swimwear violations in Portofino is not explicitly detailed in the available sources. However, similar tourist behavior violations, such as taking selfies in restricted "no-stop" zones, carry fines of around €275 (approximately $322) [3].
The regulations reflect Italy’s broader effort to manage tourist behavior in popular destinations [2][3]. The fines for other offenses under the new ordinance range from 25 to 500 euros, depending on the offense. For instance, loitering with suitcases, picnic equipment, or boomboxes in public places can incur a fine [3].
The aim of the measure in Portofino is to protect the "quiet and relaxation" of residents and tourists. The town, particularly exposed to strong visitor pressure, especially in the summer months, has implemented this restrictive measure to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all [1].
Interestingly, Portofino is not the only city in Italy taking stricter measures to curb mass tourism and rule violations. Similar measures can be found in cities like Capri, Rome, Florence, and Venice, each addressing specific issues within those cities. For example, in Venice, picnicking on bridges or near monuments is banned, while in Rome, bathing in fountains is prohibited [3].
In Capri, loud shoes are considered taboo, and begging, even if it is not aggressive, is prohibited in Portofino [3]. It's essential for tourists to respect these regulations to ensure a harmonious coexistence with the local community and preserve the beauty of these iconic Italian destinations.
References: [1] "Portofino bans barefoot walking, swimwear in town," The Local Italy, 2023. [2] "Italy's Portofino bans barefoot walking, swimwear in town to maintain decorum," CNN Travel, 2023. [3] "Portofino introduces new restrictions to manage tourist behavior," The Telegraph, 2023.
Tourists visiting Portofino should also note that the community policy extends beyond swimwear regulations. Vocational training programs are being introduced to provide locals with opportunities for home-and-garden and travel-related occupations, as part of a broader effort to improve the town's lifestyle and economy. Additionally, just as it's important to respect swimwear regulations, tourists should also be mindful of taboos and laws concerning loud shoes and other behavior, as found in cities like Capri, to ensure a harmonious coexistence with the local community and preserve the beauty of these iconic Italian destinations.
