While holidays are, of course, about letting your hair down and having fun away from the stress of work life, some Brits take it a bit too far. Now, locals in Spain have even come up with a damning nickname to describe those tourists who end up “embarrassing” themselves.
British tourists, particularly those descending on mainland Europe for stag parties and hen dos, have gained themselves a less-than-favourable reputation in recent years, despite a respite period during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, several popular destinations across the continent have been forced to implement measures, and even bans, to get a handle on the situation.
In 2017, Budapest banned the pedal-powered contraptions known as “beer bikes” due to noise and safety concerns. Meanwhile, In 2023, the Dutch capital banned boozy guided tours and cannabis smoking in its infamous Red Light District. In the same year, Amsterdam also launched its “Stay Away” digital campaign targeting young British men with warnings about fines and arrests. Restrictions were also introduced on short-term rentals and alcohol sales during specific hours.
However, it appears the Spanish have also now had enough of Brits on holiday. Locals have started to use the word “guiri” to describe these types of rowdy and embarrassing tourists.
According to Lee Bell, the term is believed to come from the Basque word “Giri,” meaning “blonde” or “fair-skinned.” The Brit, who regularly travels to Barcelona, explained to The Sun that locals often use the term to refer to all types of foreign tourists, especially those from the UK and other English-speaking countries.
“This is especially the case for the stereotypical ‘Brit abroad’ – a term for an embarrassing tourist who travels to foreign countries with no intention of integrating with the culture there.”
Last month, it was revealed that the Malaga city council in the south of Spain had relaunched its “Improve your stay in Málaga” summer campaign. Authorities have urged holidaymakers planning to visit the coastal Andalusian city to “not be conspicuous” and “dress completely” as part of a campaign to reduce antisocial behaviour.
The campaign features a list of 10 rules that tourists should abide by that respect coexistence with locals. It tackles issues such as noise pollution, dress code, cleanliness and responsible use of scooters and bicycles.
It encourages visitors to ‘Keep the City Clean’, by using rubbish bins and restrooms, as well as urging the care of heritage, gardens, and public furniture like park benches. Tourists are also reminded not to shout or play loud music and to respect quiet at night-time in residential areas.
Meanwhile, Brits have been reminded that walking in certain public areas in Spain while wearing swimwear is illegal. The policy banning public nudism or semi-nudism was introduced to balance “citizen co-existence”.