Brit tourists in Spain warned as new alcohol rules are enforced
Holidaymakers from the UK planning trips to Spain have been urged to take note of recent changes in the country’s regulations on alcohol consumption. The Balearic Islands in Spain have implemented new rules that restrict the hours during which alcohol can be consumed, with a specific prohibition in place from 9pm to 8am local time. This adjustment comes as part of broader efforts by Spain to crack down on public drinking and related disturbances, especially in popular tourist areas.
According to reports from BirminghamLive, popular resort destinations in Majorca are now imposing stricter regulations on the sale and consumption of alcohol. One Sure Insurance has issued a statement drawing attention to the growing issue of mass tourism in Spain and the government’s commitment to enforcing penalties for disruptive behaviour. They highlight that tourists should be vigilant as these laws are being rigorously enforced, and violation could result in significant fines.
One of the key elements of the new rules in the Balearic Islands is the ban on activities such as happy hours, pub crawls, and party boat trips, as well as the sale of alcohol during restricted hours. In areas like Magaluf, Playa de Palma in Mallorca, and San Antonio in Ibiza, strict measures are being put in place to curb excessive alcohol consumption. The crackdown extends to promotions like ‘all you can drink in one hour’ deals, self-service alcohol dispensers, and vending machines selling alcohol.
The Mirror has reported that hotels and other establishments are also joining in on enforcing these regulations, with warnings of eviction for guests displaying disruptive behaviour, especially on balconies. This clampdown is not limited to Spain alone; popular Croatian destinations like Hvar and Split are also implementing fines for public drinking and inappropriate beach attire, depending on the location.
The UK government, through its Travel Aware campaign, is playing a role in advising British travellers on staying safe while abroad. The campaign emphasises the importance of being cautious with alcohol consumption, particularly in unfamiliar environments where the quality and measures of alcohol may vary. It also warns against the dangers of counterfeit alcohol and the risk of drink spiking, offering guidance on staying vigilant and maintaining personal safety.
For younger holidaymakers, the Travel Aware campaign specifically encourages them to ‘Stick With Your Mates’ and highlights the dangers of excessive drinking overseas. The campaign advises on strategies to moderate alcohol intake, such as alternating drinks with water and being mindful of individual tolerance levels. It also stresses the importance of staying aware of surroundings, avoiding leaving drinks unattended, and declining beverages from strangers to prevent potential spiking incidents.
As the enforcement of stricter alcohol rules in popular tourist destinations like the Balearic Islands continues, it is essential for British tourists to be informed and compliant with the regulations in place. With the support of initiatives like the Travel Aware campaign, holidaymakers can enjoy their trips responsibly and safely, while also respecting the laws and cultural norms of the countries they visit.