Short-term rentals are turning the real estate market upside down in many Italian cities «but for the moment they are not a problem in Cagliari because fortunately, or unfortunately, we do not have the numbers of other Italian centers such as Florence. So for now we will not try to limit them. However, it could become an option for the future ».

This is the position of the mayor Paolo Truzzu, connected with the Tg2 Post broadcast during which the dynamics of tourism and their distortions were discussed. One of these derives from short and very short-term leases, with houses transformed into accommodation for tourists, with a double consequence: prices rise and properties are taken away from families, because the hit and run yields more. This immediately.

Then there is the slow transformation of the urban and city fabric, which adapts to the new needs (especially in the historic centres), with the change of services : those in the vicinity such as workshops and small shops disappear, to make room for available premises of those who arrive a few days to spend.

A problem in Florence (where Mayor Nardella vetoed the Unesco area of the Tuscan capital) but not for Cagliari, at least for now: «On the contrary: there are families who have discovered widespread entrepreneurship, with the creation of jobs. With us», said Truzzu, «a large part of the bed offer comes from the non-hotel sector, even if there are large chains that are investing in hotels».

Tourist presences are growing «even compared to 2019», added the mayor, «despite the exorbitant transport prices. We offer a lot, so we keep».

Henry Fresu