One TikTok user said he was ‘living the best life’ in the Canary Islands but pinpointed a specific scam to be wary of that involves someone saying they need help
Brits looking to enjoy themselves in Tenerife have been urged to watch out for a common scam that could ruin their holiday, according to one expat.
The popular tourist spot in the Canary Islands sees millions of visitors each year – there were 6.5 million in 2023 – with a perfect mix of scenic beaches and a busy nightlife. However, a British TikToker who now lives in Tenerife has warned others to “be careful!” if they visit. User Seb_tenerife describes himself as ‘living the best life in Tenerife’ on his page. However, the concerned expat recently posted a video highlighting a con, reportedly also prevalent in Benidorm on the Spanish mainland, reports Manchester Evening News.
The scam involves someone asking to use your mobile phone under the guise of needing directions or claiming they’ve lost their companions, only to snatch the phone and make a run for it once it’s unlocked. In the clip, which has garnered more than 15,000 views, he says that “pickpockets” are another problem to watch out for. “I would just again be very careful,” he advised.
“Benidorm is a lot like Tenerife – both great holiday destinations, great weather, booze is flying, everyone’s here for a good time, very similar sorts of destinations […] But obviously, like anywhere where holiday places are […] You’ve just got to be wary.” Seb noted one particular hotspot for trouble in Tenerife, highlighting Playa de las Americas and the adjacent Veronica’s strip.
He advised: “Las Americas does seem to be the spot where it’s all happening, especially down Veronica’s […] So aye, just be careful, watch your belongings, and you’ll be absolutely sound.” In his comments section, Seb attributed these incidents largely to intoxication, stating that they occur “due to alcohol”, with revellers too inebriated to stay alert.
Meanwhile, despite the Canary Islands being one of the most popular holiday destinations among Brits, tourists are now being warned of a huge change planned for all hotels in Spain, including in Tenerife. In the wake of recent anti-tourism protests in hotspots loved by holidaymakers such as Tenerife and Mallorca, authorities said they are cracking down on holiday rentals because locals have become frustrated at soaring property costs and busy city streets.
To help locals live affordably and comfortably, authorities said they want to reduce the number of holiday rentals while also encouraging luxury hotels to expand in order to accommodate those no longer able to stay in rental homes and apartments. Earlier this year, Barcelona and Tenerife announced a ban and stricter rules on tourist apartments, aiming to reduce supply.
