The little-known Spanish holiday rule that could see you hit with €1K fine – Here's all you need to know

The Irish Sun

5 hours ago

IRISH holidaymakers are being warned about a little-known rule in Spain which could get you into trouble for using your phone.
In a bit to crack down public phone use, some
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Spain has fines of up to €1,000 for using phone while driving
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Lake Como region have also rolled out stricter phone use
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Filming strangers can lead to arrest in United Arab Emirates
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And this action can lead to on-the-spot fines of up to €1,000.
Lake Como region in northern
And the new measure has been introduces as a safety measure as the use of
And it can land you fines up to €500.
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Travel expert at Dublin-based eSim provider
said what's perfectly normal in Ireland, like checking Google Maps or sending a quick voice note, can be frowned upon or banned entirely in other parts of the world.
She said: 'People think using their phone abroad is harmless, but in some places, it's considered rude, disruptive, or even illegal.
'Travellers can be fined simply for using their phones while walking near roads or for taking selfies in prohibited areas.
"The rules are changing quickly, and people need to stay informed."
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Phone use, even for photos, is also often banned or considered disrespectful in temples and sacred sites across
Brenda added: "You wouldn't light up a cigarette in a church, so don't assume it's fine to film or FaceTime in a sacred temple.
"Checking a text might seem harmless, but in some cultures, it's seen as disrespectful or distracting.
"At worst, it could lead to a fine or being removed from a site entirely."
EXPERT TIPS TO AVOID PHONE TROUBLE ABROAD
Know before you go
: Google '[country name] phone laws' before travelling
Switch to silent mode
in public transport and cultural spaces
Avoid filming strangers or staff
- especially in markets, airports or religious sites
Use hands-free or car-safe mounts
if driving abroad
When in doubt, put it away
- it's better to be safe than sorry
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Checking Google Mapscan be frowned upon entirely in other parts of the world
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