According to the UK Foreign Office, you could get a fine of up to 600 euros, which is around £511, if you break a certain taxi rule in Spain
People travelling to Spain are being urged to check which taxis they are using(Image: Getty Images)
If you are planning to go to Spain for a holiday this year, it will be worth noting a particular taxi rule that could result in a hefty fine. Whether you are getting a taxi from the airport to your hotel or while you’re out and about, it is best to check the vehicle you are getting into.
The UK Foreign Office, which provides travel advice on its website, says you should only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable firms. Using an unlicensed taxi could land you with a fine of up to 600 euros, which is the equivalent of around £511.
The Government department warns: “Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required.
“Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to 600 euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.”
The Foreign Office also has other useful advice for people travelling to Spain. For example, there are certain alcohol laws and bans in place.
It says: “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.”
Alcohol rules in the Balearic Islands
And if you are going to any tourist spots in the Balearic Islands, it’s important to know that local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts. These include:
- Magaluf (Calvià), Mallorca
- Playa de Palma, Mallorca
- San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany), Ibiza
The rules ban:
- happy hours
- open bars (such as ‘all you can drink in one hour’ offers)
- the sale of alcohol from vending machines
- self-service alcohol dispensers
- organising pub crawls and party boat trips
- ‘off-licence’ sales between 9:30pm and 8am
Hotels and other establishments will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies. You could also get a fine.