Sun-worshipping Brits jetting off to Spain this year have been issued a stark warning following a series of balcony-related accidents, some have which have been ‘fatal’
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice ahead of the summer boom – and has starkly warned Brits jetting off to Spain.
Despite a series of fresh protests and growing anti-tourist sentiment, the consistently sunny country is slated for a huge influx in the coming months – as holidaymakers appeared undeterred by the furore.
If you’re counting down the days until you land in hotspots like Benidorm, Barcelona, or Seville, you’ll already know that there’s no better feeling than chilling on a balcony, post-shower, while sipping on a Fanta Lemon and watching the sunset. It’s a universal holiday experience like no other, but it could put you at serious risk.
Following a number of serious accidents, some of which have been fatal, the FCDO has warned Brits about falling from their balcony. The alert follows a 15-year-old girl who was left ‘seriously injured’ after falling from the first floor of a property in Majorca last year.
READ MORE: Damning blow to Spain and Greece as Brit tourists ignore ‘misery’ threat
“Do not take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs,” the FCDO warns. “If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice at the hotel or apartment, and watch out for friends who may be at risk.”
The government body added that Brits risk getting fined or evicted from their accommodation if they are found ‘behaving irresponsibly’ around their balcony. It also warned that your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place on a balcony, especially if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when it happened.
Other prohibitions in Spain
Other FCDO warnings include not walking around in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. “Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain,” it added. “You could be fined if you are caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.”
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Whether you’re booking a last-minute trip to Spain, or paid for your holiday in-full last year, money-saving guru Martin Lewis has urged Brits to make sure they follow his ‘golden rule’. The expert advises booking your travel insurance ‘ASAB’ (as soon as you book) – or risk being left out of pocket.
As previously reported, travel insurance doesn’t just cover you when you’re actually abroad, and can protect your finances in case circumstances prevent you from going away. This could be because of sudden ill health, job loss, or even a change in your relationship status.
“Booked a holiday and not got [travel insurance] yet? Don’t wait, do it NOW,” Martin wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Half of what it costs pays for protection in case illness or other issues before you go mean you can’t go.”
One fan named Bev contacted Martin to explain how her parents hadn’t followed his advice – and ended up paying for it. “My parents made the mistake of waiting until closer to the holiday date and my mum got diagnosed with cancer and had no choice but to cancel as she needed life-saving surgery,” she said. “They only got 10 per cent back: an expensive mistake.”
You can learn more about what type of travel insurance you should purchase, and what policy to look out for, here.
Has anti-tourist sentiment put you off from visiting Spain? Email [email protected] for a chance to share your story