Brits in Majorca warned they face £435 fines over 'respect' in new crackdown
British holidaymakers could be hit with a hefty €500 (£436) penalty if they step out of line on a beloved Spanish island, with revellers on nights out particularly at risk.
The Balearic gem of Majorca remains a firm favourite with UK tourists and is expected to be bustling this summer with visitors seeking sun and fun.
However, in recent years, locals have developed mixed feelings about tourists from Britain and similar countries, with demonstrations erupting over skyrocketing property costs and environmental harm from the tourism sector.
Now Brits enjoying a Mediterranean getaway are being urged to mind their behaviour, as warning notices have appeared across the island urging visitors to demonstrate "respect" during their stay or risk substantial financial penalties.
The steepest fine, €500 (£435), applies to consuming alcohol on public streets, whilst "shouting, fighting or bothering people" can result in individuals receiving a €400 (£348) charge, as can nudity or partial nudity outside beach areas, reports the Express.
This development follows concerns that Spanish islands worry Brits may not return as tourists face yet another setback.
Advisory notices have been scattered throughout various Calvia streets, displaying warnings in both English and Spanish.
The signs display the hashtag #havefunwithrespect, or #divierteteconrespeto in Spanish.
"Dirtying the street" also carries a €200 (£174) punishment, with the notices positioned along Punta Ballena in Magaluf, alongside others on Ramon de Montcada in Santa Ponsa, according to the Liverpool Echo. Whilst these penalties apply to these specific locations, visitors to other Spanish resorts should acquaint themselves with additional regulations before departing.
Local legislation restricts alcohol sales in certain destinations, including Magaluf, Playa de Palma, and San Antonio, for instance.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) additionally cautions that accommodation providers "will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies", and you may face a penalty as well.
FCDO guidance for Spain states: "In some parts of Spain it's illegal to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts.
"Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You could be fined if you're caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets."
Holidaymakers are also being cautioned about operating drones in Spain following an incident where a tourist had their device confiscated, with the matter referred to Spain's State Aviation Safety Agency (AESA) for administrative action.
Spanish and EU legislation requires prior authorisation for all drone operations in built-up areas or above gatherings, whilst operators must possess training, registration, and insurance.
Spain enforces stringent drone regulations, with breaches treated with gravity - penalties can span from €60 to an eye-watering €225,000 for the most severe infractions, depending on the offence's seriousness.
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