Brit tourists in Spain warned over new 8am and 9pm rules

British are being advised to exercise caution as Spain begins a crack down on Experts at One Sure Insurance have advised that UK tourists face strict 9pm to 8am rules in the when it comes to drinking hours.

consumption is being restricted in three as the country cracks down on happy hours, public drinking and the sale of alcohol between 9.30pm and 8am local time, as reported by . One Sure Insurance has issued a statement warning that “"with mass tourism a growing issue across Spain, the government has made it clear that they are committed to enforcing fines for those engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behaviour."

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The insurance broker added: “Tourists need to be aware that these laws are being strictly enforced, and they must adjust their behaviour to avoid potentially costly fines. The government has made it clear that laws such as the public drinking ban, as well as restrictions on things like party boat trips, pub crawls, and alcohol sales after hours, are not just temporary measures, but long-term regulations in place until at least 2027."

It is already illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. Public drinking in certain areas can result in an immediate fine, this also applies to sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.

Local laws restrict the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the, including Magaluf (Calvià), Mallorca, Playa de Palma, Mallorca and San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany), Ibiza. These rules prohibit happy hours, open bars (toting ‘all you can drink in one hour’ deals), the sale of alcohol from vending machines, self-service alcohol dispensers, organising pub crawls and party boat trips.

Hotels and other local establishments have also threatened to evict travellers misbehaving on balconies. This type of reckless behaviour can also see tourists incur fines. Other countries are also beginning to impose stricter fines on rowdy travellers. destinations like Hvar and Split are for public alcohol consumption and even beach attire, depending on where it is worn.

The UK government has also stepped in to provide safety advice to while abroad through its Travel Aware campaign. The campaign encourages young travellers to “Stick With Your Mates” in an initiative highlighting the risks of alcohol consumption abroad.

The campaign reminds travellers that: “Drinking abroad can be different to back in the UK. The quality of alcohol can be poorer, measurements of alcohol larger, and cheaper drinks and deals can result in you getting more drunk, quicker than intended.” The UK government has also increasingly warned travellers to be conscious of the rising prevalence of counterfeit alcohol. Methanol poisoning has been on the rise, most recently in Istanbul.

The Travel Aware campaign advises young travellers to exercise caution and be mindful of drink spiking while on holiday. Travellers are advised to take the following steps when drinking abroad:

• Do not leave your drink unattended and do not accept drinks from strangers. This is the best strategy to prevent the possibility of your drink being spiked.

• Consume water in-between alcoholic drinks. This will help pace you throughout the night and help keep you hydrated.

• Drink at your own pace. Everyone’s tolerance to alcohol is different. Consider avoiding rounds or having a break from drinking alcohol if you are feeling uneasy.