Brits in Spain warned over staying in all-inclusive hotels this summer

Daily Record

5 days ago

Police have urged holidaymakers heading to some of the country's hotspots to be on the lookout for suspicious behaviour
Brits planning a Spanish getaway this summer have been issued a warning by police due to a spike in crime at all-inclusive hotels. Officers are urging holidaymakers to stay alert following a significant increase in thefts and robberies, often carried out by individuals or gangs specifically targeting these venues.
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Authorities have pointed out that while all-inclusive hotels provide a wide array of facilities, they can also attract thieves. In a video posted on their official TikTok account, the Spanish National Police have highlighted "a common and dangerous practice among tourists": leaving personal items unattended whilst enjoying hotel pools and beaches.
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The message aims to raise awareness, without causing undue worry, about the need for increased personal vigilance. One of the officers in the video explained: "It is essential to remember that travelling to an all-inclusive hotel does not expressly guarantee protection for your personal effects in common areas such as the pool.
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"Therefore, although it is a period to relax and disconnect, it is advisable to stay in control and take measures to avoid unpleasant situations that can spoil your holiday."
All-inclusive holidays have become so popular that areas such as swimming pools, bars and beaches within hotel complexes are attracting large crowds, providing perfect conditions for criminals to operate. Police have issued a warning that holidaymakers often leave their bags unattended while they swim or enjoy a drink, and are advising tourists not to rely solely on private security as constant surveillance in all areas of the hotel is not guaranteed, reports Glasgow Live.
Please note: the video below is in Spanish.
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Thefts tend to increase during summer holidays in popular destinations like Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands. The surge of tourists can sometimes overwhelm security measures.
Authorities recommend always carrying your bag or backpack in front of you, allowing you to keep an eye on its contents at all times. They emphasise that avoiding leaving personal belongings unattended on the sand or in hammocks is a basic but crucial tip to prevent theft.
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The Spanish National Police also suggest minimising the number of possessions you take to the pool or beach. Only bring what is necessary for bathing and lounging in these areas.
Valuables such as watches, jewellery or electronic devices should be kept in the hotel room, preferably in safes if available. Moreover, when walking or moving through crowded areas near your accommodation, always keep your wallet, backpack or bag in a frontal position and under continuous surveillance, reports GlasgowLive.
"Pickpockets take advantage of crowds to act quickly and discreetly, so a preventive attitude can make the difference between enjoying the trip or regretting material losses," they emphasise.
Meanwhile, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's travel advice for Spain alerts Brits to remain vigilant against street crime and pickpocketing.
The Gov.uk website stated: "Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire."