In Zadar, a property owner discovered a shocking state of his recently rented apartment after four guests from Luxembourg checked out. The situation was far from routine cleaning and preparation for new tenants, instead, he found scattered belongings, large amounts of trash, and damaged inventory. This incident has sparked discussions among rental hosts in Croatia and Greece about the need for stricter measures against problematic tourists. The property owner had just begun renting out his apartment in Zadar during this tourist season. The four guests stayed for seven days, and upon their departure, it became clear how much damage they had caused. While some guests might have left negative reviews due to dissatisfaction with the accommodation, others have been accused of more serious offenses such as damaging property, stealing items, refusing to pay for damages, or even threatening the host. These incidents have led to calls for a system similar to a “black list” of problematic tourists, which would allow hosts to share information about individuals who have caused issues. This idea has gained traction among Croatian and Greek property owners, who argue that they should have the ability to warn each other about guests who behave unacceptably. However, there are concerns about how such a list could be implemented fairly. For example, a guest who simply expresses dissatisfaction with the service or leaves a negative review should not automatically be included. Instead, the focus should be on documented cases of serious misconduct, such as intentional damage, theft, or refusal to pay for repairs. Some proponents of the black list suggest that all reports must be supported by tangible evidence, such as photos of damaged property, repair invoices, written communication between the guest and host, or official records. Without such proof, the system risks being abused for personal vendettas. Moreover, there are fears that legitimate complaints could lead to false accusations, especially if a guest criticizes the service in a justified manner. The concept has already generated heated debates on social media platforms and in online communities dedicated to travel in Greece. Some users support the idea, arguing that hosts deserve protection from those who exploit the hospitality industry. Others, however, worry that such a list could discourage honest feedback and create a climate of fear among travelers. There are also questions about data privacy, criteria for inclusion, and who would have access to the information. One of the key challenges is determining who should decide whether a guest is truly problematic. If a host is dissatisfied with a guest’s behavior, does that automatically make them a threat to others? Or could such a system be misused for revenge or unfair judgment? These concerns highlight the complexity of balancing the rights of both hosts and guests. The debate has also touched on the broader issue of how tourists interact with local hosts. Some examples given include guests who occupy beds early in the morning, complain about the view not matching photographs, or prepare meals for more people than the apartment can accommodate. Such situations raise questions about what constitutes acceptable behavior and whether subjective opinions should influence decisions about future bookings. At present, there are no formal plans to implement such a system. The discussion remains largely theoretical, with many participants acknowledging that while the idea has merit, it requires careful regulation to avoid misuse. Nevertheless, the conversation reflects a growing awareness of the tensions between tourism and hospitality, and the need for clearer guidelines to protect both sides. As these discussions continue, the question remains: will a black list ever become a reality, or will it remain just another idea in the ongoing evolution of the global tourism industry?
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