It is important to be aware of local laws when travelling to a foreign country
Tourists in Magaluf, Spain(Image: Getty Images)
Spain is a hugely popular holiday destination and millions of people travel to the country with friends, family and for solo trips every year. There are many areas of the country that can suit the needs of everyone, including those looking for a party trip or those looking to unwind.
For those visiting the country, it is important to be aware of the local laws that should be followed. In Spain, alcohol laws can be different than they are in the UK.
Similar to England, 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. If you are found drinking in a public space, you can be fined up to €3,000.
If you are planning a trip to the Balearic Islands, local laws may affect you when it comes to purchasing alcohol. According to the Foreign Office, sale of alcohol may be limited in some resorts including Magaluf, Playa de Palma and San Antonio.
The ban on alcohol can include:
- 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
The Foreign Office warns: “Hotels and other establishments will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies. You could also get a fine.”
Last month, the travel agency reminded travellers to stay alert and aware while drinking alcohol abroad. On X it said: “On a party holiday?
“Share your location with friends. Because the only thing worse than losing your friend is trying to describe ‘that one bar with the lights’ to a taxi driver.”
It comes as part of the government’s Travel Aware campaign to ensure you have the best possible travel abroad, help you stay safe and understand risks in different countries.
The Foreign Office urges people to “stick with your mates”, on the travel aware website, it says: “Sadly, for a small number of Brits, their holiday ends in a hospital ward or a police station.
You should check FCDO Travel Advice before travelling to make sure you are fully informed on the entry requirements, and that you understand and comply with local rules.
You should also get a travel insurance policy and make sure you know what cover it provides. If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.
The government has previously issued travel warnings surrounding drink spiking including methanol spiking. Official advice reads: “Spiking is when someone sneaks something into your drink, like drugs or harmful substances, without you knowing.
“It can be done to make you blackout, incapacitated, or worse. Methanol spiking is when alcohol is contaminated with methanol to save money. In tourist hotspots, it’s not unheard of, so you’ve got to stay on your toes.”