Despite their party-mad reputation, two popular Spanish islands in the Balearics actually passed strict laws banning pub crawls and other booze-related activities back in 2020
UK holidaymakers have been warned of strict drinking laws still in place in two popular party islands.
In a brutal blow to British stag and hen parties, the Balearic hotspots of Majorca and Ibiza brought in strict regulation back in 2020 – prohibiting pub crawls and ‘happy hour’ promotions in certain areas. Five years later and many Brits still don’t know about the law, which was brought in by regional government.
Luckily, the pub crawl crackdown only applies to those staying in Playa de Palma and Magaluf in Majorca and Sant Antoni in Ibiza. So, if you’re looking for a booze-filled week where you can quite literally chase the night – it might be worth booking accommodation in other regions.
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Matt Mavir, managing director at Last Night of Freedom, the UK’s leading stag and hen organiser, warns tourists can be slapped with fines exceeding €600 (around £502) for antisocial behaviour like ‘street drinking or nudity’ – while those creating ‘excessive noise or vandalism’ may be charged up to €3,000 (£2,513).
In a statement sent to the Mirror, the expert urged Brits to ‘read up on local laws’ before travelling, and avoid wearing any offensive costumes on your Stag/Hen Do. Holidaymakers have also been advised to be wary of their volume when in residential areas, make sure they avoid drinking in public areas (including the beach) and reduce their group size to attract less attention.
“These destinations have to strike the right balance – if Brits feel they’re being targeted or treated unfairly, they are likely to just go elsewhere,” added Matt. “It’s a lazy assumption that those heading abroad for a stag or hen do are causing trouble – these are normal people just letting their hair down. But they must be respectful and mindful to make sure they don’t fall foul of the recently changed rules.”
As previously reported, both party islands have also enacted strict rules for all-inclusive holidaymakers – capping their alcoholic drinks at six per day. The ban, which doesn’t impact Menorca at all, covers the following regions:
- Playa de Palma, Majorca
- S’Arenal (El Arenal), Majorca
- Magaluf, Majorca
- West End of San Antonio, Ibiza
The strict rules, which will last for at least two more years, mean Brits are only allowed three alcoholic beverages during lunch and a further three with their evening meal. Again, these places won’t be advertising ‘happy hour’ or encourage alcohol consumption through previously-popular initiatives like open bars.
If you’re unfazed by the rules, you can fly to Majorca or Ibiza from most major UK airports, including Birmingham, Glasgow, London, and Manchester. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares in June for as little as £28*.
*Prices based on Skyscanner listings at the time of writing.
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