Holiday rules for anyone travelling to Portugal, Spain
With the summer holidays officially starting next week many people will be packing their cases ready to go abroad. However, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the local laws and customs of your destination to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Whether it’s drinking regulations or dress codes, being aware can save you from potential trouble. Take Spain, for instance, a favourite among holidaymakers. In certain regions, strutting around in just your swimwear away from the beach could land you with a fine.
Here’s a summary of what you need to know, based on guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Portugal
In Portugal, it’s mandatory to present some form of identification if requested by the police. A photocopy of your passport is usually sufficient. The country has stringent regulations regarding gambling, which is only legal in establishments duly licensed by the government. If gambling occurs in unlicensed venues, organisers, participants and anyone present could face arrest, criminal charges, fines or even imprisonment.
The FCDO says: “The police may act on reports of illegal gambling in unauthorised premises without warning. You could be arrested, charged and fined or given a prison sentence. If in doubt, ask if the venue is licensed.”
Spain
While many of us have been tempted to saunter back to our hotel in just our swimwear after a day at the beach, it could land you with a hefty fine if caught. The FCDO warns: “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.”
For those looking forward to enjoying an alcoholic drink while on holiday, it’s worth noting that in certain areas in Majorca and Ibiza there are restrictions on the sale and availability of alcohol. In regions of Magaluf and Playa de Palma in Majorca and San Antonio in Ibiza, there are prohibitions on happy hours, open bars and the organising of pub-crawls and party boat trips. The law also prohibits “off-licence” sales between 9.30pm and 8am.
