Italy Beaches Push Back On ‘Saving Space’
Some municipalities in Italy have launched a new initiative that fines beachgoers who leave towels, umbrellas and other gear overnight at public beaches.
According to Conde Nast Traveler, “local authorities in beachfront towns have been issuing €200 ($222) fines to people who leave their stuff out on the sand overnight.” Conde Nast reported that the coastal town of Livorno, near Florence, has “seized 37 beach chairs, 30 umbrellas, and even some swimsuits,” while the Tuscan town of Cecina “has made it a crime” to leave gear on the beach before it opens.
Apparently, this initiative is meant to free up space at Italy's beaches, due to the decades-old Italian tradition of holding spots with beach towels and other gear, carving out prime spots before other bathers arrive.