Thousands of Brits will be making trips to Spain this summer – and it’s important to know the local rules before arriving. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued advice for travellers heading to the popular holiday destination.
The rules include how to behave on beaches and local alcohol regulations. Brits face on-the-spot fines for breaking some rules and should be aware of what not to do before they travel. You can be fined up to 600 euros (£505) for drinking alcohol in the street in some parts of Spain. It is also illegal to drink alcohol in other public places such as beaches.
The FCDO said: “It’s illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can get an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.”
There are specific local laws on the popular Balearic Islands, including Magaluf, Mallorca, Playa de Palma, Mallorca and Ibiza. These laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in certain areas.
According to the FCDO, this bans happy hours, open bars, the sale of alcohol from vending machines, self-service alcohol dispensers, and off-licence sales between 9.30pm and 8am. Tourists will be fined more if their public drinking disrupts peace, involves crowds or distresses others.
As well as alcohol rules, British tourists are also being urged to take care when swimming in the sea in Spain. There are strong undercurrents around some Spanish islands as well as hidden rocks and shallow depths.
Brits are advised not to dive into unknown water or swim at beaches where a river runs into the sea. Many beaches have a flag system, with a red flag meaning you should not enter the water.
If there are no flags, signs or lifeguards, you should take extra caution as waves can come in further than expected and have strong undertows. Some beaches may also have jellyfish in which case you should follow local advice.
The FCDO said: “Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain. Always supervise children, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.
“Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.”
