Tourists in Spain warned they face hefty £630 fines in food and drink crackdown
British holidaymakers could even be arrested under new laws
British holidaymakers in a popular tourist hotspot are being warned they could face fines of up to 750 euros (around £630) for buying anything, including food and drink, from street vendors. This comes as Palma, the capital of Mallorca, has introduced new laws this month that could see Brits slapped with fines or even arrested for a range of offences this summer.
The new rules tackle a host of issues, including graffiti, posters, leaflets, public gambling and betting, fraudulent begging, sexual demands, artistic performances, guided tours, littering, public alcohol consumption, group gatherings, street vending, motorhomes, nudism, balconing, and scooters.
One notable change is the regulation of electric scooters. Riders will now need to prove they have civil liability insurance (with a minimum coverage of €120,000) and wear an approved helmet.
Another rule that could catch people out is a total ban on buying any item from unauthorised vendors in public spaces. This includes purchasing souvenirs, food and drink, and fashion accessories like sunglasses and watches, with the only exception being authorised markets.
These laws have been brought in partly in response to protests on the island against excessive tourism, as well as complaints about the behaviour of visitors, reports Yorkshire Live.
A document outlining the measures stated they were designed to 'prevent inappropriate everyday actions' and 'address incivility in general'. Danny Toffel, CEO and founder of online retailer Watches2U, advised: "When travelling abroad it's always worth reading up on local rules.
"These measures have been implemented to safeguard Palma's culture and economy and, in some instances, for public safety. Purchasing from unauthorised street vendors might appear a harmless way to snag a bargain but they can undermine local, legitimate businesses.
"Illegal street vendors may also peddle counterfeit goods which again may not seem like a significant issue to many, but violate intellectual property rules and divert money away from legitimate businesses. The message is clear - buy from reputable sellers or tourists could find themselves facing severe consequences."
Graffiti, categorised as a very serious offence, will incur a fine of up to 3,000 euros. Nudism, whether total or partial, will be punishable by a fine of up to 750 euros.
This does not apply to 'designated areas' or, for instance, to women who go topless on beaches. Drinking alcohol in groups ('botellón') is prohibited as is the use of drugs in public spaces.
The use of loudspeakers without local council permission, parkour, laser pointers, and public urination or defecation will also lead to arrests. Balconing - the act of moving from one balcony to another - could result in a fine of up to 1,500 euros.
The police will aid hotel businesses in the immediate removal of those who commit this offence.
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