Benidorm

Influencer Harry Poulton, who lives full-time in the Spanish holiday hotspot of Benidorm, said conmen are targeting tourists at the side of main roads and his issued a call to action

A British expat has warned that tourists are getting robbed in Benidorm.

Happily, there is one thing holidaymakers can do to avoid the same fate. Harry Poulton, known on TikTok as @harrytokky, claims that the robberies are going underreported and should be taken more seriously.

The influencer, who lives full-time in the Spanish holiday hotspot, said conmen are targeting tourists at the side of main roads.

“If you’re renting a car, if you’re driving to Spain on the motorways — do not pull over,” Harry said in a video.

“Not for someone that is on the side of the motorway with their hazards on, trying to flag you down. There are signposts in Spain at the moment, all the way from Barcelona up to Valencia and Alicante, saying ‘Be warned: highway robberies.’

Have you been targetted by highway robbers while on holiday? Email [email protected]

“People are being flagged down — there are normally two people in these cars. One will try to ask for help while the other distracts you. They then rob all of your valuables out of your car.

“This scam is happening all the time in Spain and in parts of France. But no one seems to be speaking about it. Has anything like this ever happened to you before? This is a warning. It is not worth it. Do not pull over.

“You might be doing a good favour, you might think you’re helping someone out. But next thing you know, you could have all of your valuables stolen.”

The British Embassy in Madrid has previously issued a similar warning, urging holidaymakers to “watch out for ruthless gangs of modern-day highway robbers who are preying on people driving foreign-registered vehicles and hire cars.”

In a two-year period, police in the Catalonia region of Spain dealt with 126 British victims of robbery on the AP-7 motorway between the French border and the Valencia region.

British consulates across mainland Spain said they receive regular reports of roadside robberies occurring along the coast between Barcelona and Alicante, across Andalucía in the south, and in the Madrid region. Consular staff estimate that one in 20 of all emergency passports issued last year due to theft were following motorway robberies.

Earlier this year, Moggy McIntyre told The Times how she and her husband Greg were victims of ‘highway pirates’. They stopped on a motorway on the outskirts of Barcelona after being flagged down by a driver who spoke to them in fast Spanish they couldn’t understand.

“After a few minutes, he gestured for us to wait and walked back to his car as if he was going to get something. Then he suddenly drove off,” Moggy explained.

“We were like, ‘What was that?’ It was so weird, because we couldn’t see anything wrong with the car. So we got back in, and only then did we realise that my handbag was gone.

“It had been in the footwell of the passenger seat, so the person I saw in the back of their car must have sneaked out and taken whatever they could. We didn’t see or hear a thing.

“Thank God I had picked up our phones and credit cards. But they got our passports — both my British and Australian ones — and also lots of inconvenient things like my Australian medical card, make-up, and glasses.”

Michelle Cranston filmed three tourists setting out a long line of deck chairs and beach brollies right in front of the shore in Benidorm, Spain at the crack of dawn

A Brit was left stunned after seeing tourists putting their towels on a Benidorm beach at 6.30am.

Michelle Cranston spotted the group claiming their spot as she prepared to fly home. The 52-year-old had enjoyed a sunny holiday in the Benidorm resort with her husband.

The couple were waiting for their airport transfer when they noticed the group placing their towels on the sand at what Michelle called a “ridiculously early time.” She filmed three tourists setting out a long line of deck chairs and beach brollies right in front of the shore.

The rest of the beach appeared deserted at the time—Sunday, July 6.

“My husband and I woke up early to get ready for our airport transfer pick-up at 8:30 a.m. for our flight to Newcastle,” said Michelle, who lives near Middlesbrough, Teesside, in an interview with What’s The Jam.

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“We were staying at the H10 Porto Poniente Hotel in the old town of Benidorm, in a room with uninterrupted, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and Poniente Beach. It was our second stay here—it’s perfect for people-watching.

“After getting ready, we sat on the balcony with a coffee and noticed some people were already setting up their chairs and parasols along the water’s edge. It was just before 6:30 a.m.”

Michelle posted the video online. She said: “After a giggle about what a ridiculously early time it was to be setting up for a prime spot on the beach—I mean, you’re not going to run out of beach in Benidorm—I took a short video and wasn’t thinking any more of it. On my return to the UK, I checked my phone, and to my amazement, it had gained a lot of interest, reactions, and replies. I never anticipated the post would be this popular.”

Michelle and her husband aren’t the only Brits frustrated by early risers “reserving” sun spots.

A group of irate holidaymakers recently told how they thwarted a cunning plan by fellow Brits to bag sunbeds seven hours before their hotel pool opened.

While having a late-night chinwag on their balcony, Mandy Boyd spotted some lads she thought were sneaking in for a cheeky swim. But on closer inspection, the 34-year-old realised the young men were actually trying to nab the best loungers at 2:00 a.m.—despite the pool not opening until 9:00 a.m. the next day.

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The quartet of girls watched as the lads dragged out sunloungers to secure prime spots. Mandy and her mates patiently waited on the balcony for the perfect moment to dash down and swipe the towels.

The comical “sunbed wars” sabotage took place around 2:00 a.m. at the Aquasol Aparthotel in Palmanova, near Magaluf, Spain.

“We’re just doing the Lord’s work,” said Mandy, from Bridgend, South Wales, speaking to Luxury Travel Daily. “I can’t stand it when people reserve sunbeds and don’t use them all day. I find it really inconsiderate. It was shocking to see them reserving beds at 2 a.m., especially when there was no chance of those lads being up to enjoy them. We kept the towels but made sure we left them where they would find them.”

Renee Roebuck, from Rotherham, loves Benidorm in Alicante, Spain so much that she visits three times a year and saves all her money for her regular, blow-out trips

A Benidorm-obsessed nan who has been to the British tourist hotspot over 100 times has explained what keeps her coming back for more.

Renee Roebuck just loves Benidorm. She has visited the Spanish holiday location for the past 31 years and says other destinations simply don’t compare. While many travelers come for the sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and historic Old Town, there’s another very special reason why this 81-year-old loves Benidorm: Tribute bands.

Happily, the Alicante settlement is crawling with them. Renee spends her days decked out in merch watching a different cover band or singer every night. Sometimes even joins artists on stage for a boogie. The nan isn’t the only holiday-goer who loves a good show.

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New research from TUI shows that nearly nine in 10 Brits enjoy watching tribute acts while on holiday. And 68% of survey participants dub it one of their favourite forms of entertainment during a trip abroad – with tribute acts beating out alternatives like karaoke (43%) and nightclubs (37%).

Renee visits the sunny spot alongside her husband Alan and occasionally her children and grandchildren. The full family often spends two weeks in Benidorm over Christmas. “Benidorm is my happy place,” said Renee, a former fruit market worker, from Rotherham.

“Ever since my first trip, I’ve never looked back. I go with my family four to five times a year, and I can’t get enough of the lifestyle there. I don’t go out much in England, so I can save money to go to Benidorm more often. If I had my way, I’d never come home.

“My favourite thing to do is to watch a tribute act – I see a different one every night when I’m on holiday.”

After a cancer diagnosis at the age of 60, Renee was forced to have two-thirds of her stomach removed. Ever since, the nan has been determined to live life to the max.

For her, this involves lounging in the sun and listening to classic tunes performed by local tribute artists – especially Bob Marley and Take That. But Renee and Alan both love the variety of bands that Benidorm has to offer.

Renee’s granddaughter, Lauren Chant, works as a Travel Advisor at TUI’s Sheffield Superstore and books her nan’s holidays, which often become trips for the whole family.

Renee said: “I like to stay in a nice area just outside of the hustle and bustle, and always book with TUI as they book tribute acts to come and perform at the hotel. When I have stayed at apartments, I’ve ended up walking to the hotels or bars to be able to see the entertainment.

“I go to Benidorm so often that the performers even remember me now – they’ll bring me up on stage and chat after the shows. It’s different to going to see a big band or famous singer as, with tributes, you’re able to get to know them properly – and they’re all ever so good at what they do.

“They engage with the audience more and you get a real feel for their personalities.”

When it comes to booking a holiday, almost a quarter of Brits (24%) admit that the entertainment on offer in a holiday destination or hotel is a deciding factor.

Tribute acts in particular appear to be a priority for holidaymakers – with 85% of survey participants attending at least a couple of acts during a week’s vacation. Despite her many visits, Renee hasn’t tired of the holiday spot.

She added: “Benidorm really does have it all. You can find busy or quiet places, a lovely beach, and you’ll never get bored there – there’s plenty to do, especially if you love the tributes. I’m able to really make the most out of life when I’m there, and I’m always up dancing.

“It’s just brilliant. I’ll keep going every year, as many times as I can, for the rest of my life.”

A Benidorm actress has share some exciting news about a potential new series of the much-loved ITV comedy

A much-loved Benidorm star has given fans a glimmer of hope about the return of the cult ITV comedy series.

Launching in 2007, the show captivated audiences as it charted the hilarious escapades of Brits basking in the sunshine at the Solana Resort. Over its glittering run, Benidorm scooped up numerous accolades including BAFTAs and NTAs, securing its status as a viewer’s delight.

Despite an all-star cast featuring Sheridan Smith, Siobhan Finneran, and Johnny Vegas, the show came to an untimely end after 11 years in 2018, much to devotees’ dismay.

Whispers of a revival have been circulating, spurred on by hints from the cast and even creator Derren Litten himself, reports OK!.

Sherrie Hewson, renowned for her portrayal of Joyce Temple-Savage, dropped a bombshell during her ‘An Evening With Sherrie Hewson’ on Sunday (July 6) in Barnsley. She revealed: “I do know ITV have got new scripts and they love them and think they are wonderful.”

Yet, she tempered expectations by stating: “The problem with Benidorm is that it’s probably one of the most expensive shows ever because it’s in Spain, we have a Spanish crew, we have a British crew, so it costs a fortune to make.”

Still, she remains optimistic, adding: “But it’s on twice a day every day and those ratings are still as high as they ever were, so I think it will [return].”

Fans loyal to Benidorm may just see their beloved characters gracing the screens once again thanks to ITV’s apparent adoration for the new material presented to them.

Sherrie hinted at good news: “And I think they [ITV bosses] love the scripts anyway and Derren said he laughed out loud when he wrote them so I don’t think there’s any question, it’s just when.”

In other news, Benidorm creator Derren Litten had fans buzzing in April when he announced that he is in negotiations with ITV about a potential revival of the fan-favourite show.

During a Facebook Live session reported by The Sun, Derren divulged some tantalising details: “Have I been talking to ITV in the last few months? Yes I have.”

He continued, giving fans a glimmer of hope: “Have ITV commissioned a special or a series at the moment? No. Might they in the next few weeks [or] couple of months? Yeah they might. They might.”

Derren concluded, aiming to uplift fans with anticipation: “So I hope that gives you [the fans] some hope, and I hope that gives you some idea of where we are,” indicating that the beloved sitcom may soon return to the small screen.

Greece has put in place strict rules to preserve its ancient heritage and breathtaking landscapes, meaning holidaymakers jetting off should be aware of the laws

Holidaymakers heading to the sun-drenched beaches of Greece should be aware of local laws that could result in hefty fines. Greek authorities are taking a firm stance on preserving their ancient heritage, imposing bans on removing pebbles and wearing high heels at historic sites.

In an effort to protect its landscapes and cultural treasures, Greece has gradually introduced strict regulations. The Greeks take great care of their ancient stones, banning the wearing of high heels at historical attractions to prevent potential damage. As British families head to airports for their eagerly awaited holidays to destinations including Greece, Spain and Italy, they should be aware of the unusual rules in place.

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Since 2009, visitors to iconic Athens landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre have been required to leave their stilettos behind, according to findings by Parkdean Resorts.

While many travellers like to keep up their style while on holiday, the Greek Government introduced this law to prevent visitors from wearing shoes that could damage historical attractions.

Those found wearing potentially damaging shoes at ancient sites could face a fine of up to €900 (£771), reports the Express. Greece has also introduced other regulations to limit the risks posed to its heritage and land.

Tourists tempted to take pebbles as souvenirs from picturesque spots like Lalaria Beach in Skiathos might find themselves out of pocket by as much as £771.

Spain is cracking down on tourism’s toll with a series of eccentric rules, especially in Barcelona, where holidaygoers caught in beachwear away from sandy shores might be forking out between £86 and £171.

Majorca is not far behind, with new penalties designed to deter “undesirable” behaviour along its popular coastlines.

Even Benidorm is getting tough on fun in the sun, as sandcastle builders on Levante beach could end up shelling out as much as £129 if they lack a permit.

The fines don’t stop there – smoking, kipping or using soap products on Benidorm’s beaches could hit tourists’ wallets even harder.

A Brit abroad has warned people visiting Benidorm this year that there are allegedly “fake taxis” driving around, urging people to exercise caution when they’re travelling

Heading to Benidorm this summer? One Brit abroad has shared that you may want to be careful about the taxis you’re getting in while you’re there. Harry, who posts regular Benidorm content under the username @harrytokky, shared the “warning,” urging people to exercise caution because there are reportedly “fake taxis” which could turn out to be a “random stranger’s car,” and they will not take you to the destination you want to arrive at.

Harry explained in his TikTok video that he would tell people which taxis were safe to take and which to avoid completely if they wanted to stay safe in the party capital.

He said that “in Benidorm there’s only one type of taxi that you should be getting into,” and they are “white cars with a blue stripe down the middle”.

Harry shared that they usually “have a light on the top of the roof,” and it will be either green or red. “If they’re red, the taxi is in use,” whereas if the light is green, it’s free to get in.

He said these taxis will “take you to your destination nice and safe,” which is more than can be said for the “fake taxis” he speaks of.

Harry continued: “So guys, if you’re coming out to Benidorm, they are the only taxis that you should be looking out for because you don’t want to get into some random stranger’s car” because they may not take you where you’re going.

In the comments, someone wrote: “What about Uber? The last time I was there, I used Uber from Benidorm old town to the airport; it was a regular black car.”

Others reiterated that they managed to use Uber while they were there, but others shared that they’d “struggled” and “couldn’t get the app to work”.

Another Benidorm visitor recommended “the Pide app,” saying it was “really easy”. Harry responded: “I totally agree with you. I should’ve mentioned that”.

Somebody else said that they’d used the Pide app the “whole time” they were in Benidorm, saying it provided them with “fantastic service”.

Radio Taxi Benidorm is a local taxi company that can be contacted by phone when you are in the area, and they provide safe taxi journeys that are legitimate.

In the comments, another person recommended that you look for the “blue stripe” on the car to be sure that it’s a real taxi.

It’s important to note that in high season, it may be more challenging to find taxis readily available at the ranks.

Others recommend that, for safety, you get your hotel to call you a taxi so you know they’re real. You can also ask a restaurant to call you a taxi, so you’re not walking around the streets to find one.

You can also check the Google rating of a taxi company before using it, but make sure you do your research online beforehand.

Harry Poulton lives in Benidorm, Spain, and has said there are some activities aimed at tourists that he would never spend his money on – including one he ‘regrets’ doing

For some, going on holiday is just about lounging in the sun and reading a good book, but for others, no trip is complete without taking in all the sights and getting stuck into some activities you’d never do at home. How you choose to spend your holiday is up to you, but one Benidorm local has urged people to consider how they spend their money.

Benidorm, a Spanish resort town in Alicante, is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits looking to soak up the sunshine. But if you’re planning on heading there this summer, a British man who has moved out there permanently has said there are some tourist attractions he would never waste his money on – and he would urge others to steer clear, too.

Harry Poulton, known on TikTok as Harry Tokky, claimed there’s plenty to love about Benidorm, but there are some activities on offer that are too expensive for what you get, as you could have a better experience elsewhere for cheaper.

First up on his list, Harry took aim at party boat trips. He said it was “absolutely awful” when he tried it out, and for the 300-400 euros it usually costs, you could have much more fun “getting absolutely hammered” in a pub.

He said: “Absolutely awful. I couldn’t think of anything worse than spending three or four hours in the middle of the ocean getting absolutely hammered.

“I’d much rather save the 300 or 400 euros and get hammered in an actual bar on land here in Benidorm. Definitely one to avoid in my opinion.”

Harry also told tourists to skip the banana boating if they already have sunburn. He said the inflatable banana-shaped boats are “great fun” for most people, but if you’re “red raw with sunburn” you should definitely consider doing something else.

He added: “Take it from me – don’t go on a banana boat if you’re red raw with sunburn. It’s the worst thing you can ever do. It’s so painful. They’re great fun, but if you’re a wimp like me, you don’t want to be going around on one when you get a sunburn – trust me.

“You’ll regret it the next day.”

And as for the activity that Harry would describe as the “worst money” he’s ever spent, the Benidorm local admitted it was parasailing – and it’s something he’ll never do again.

He noted: “I’m speaking from experience. That was the worst water sports I have ever done in my whole entire life. Fifteen minutes of pure hell. It was awful.

“I was up there throwing up, begging to come down, and no one would get me down because they couldn’t hear a word I was saying. If you’re scared of heights or if you get seasick, I would avoid parasailing. It’s the worst money I have ever spent.”

Harry regularly shares his travel tips on social media, but some commenters have been less convinced about his activity recommendations.

One person argued that parasailing is “fantastic fun,” while another called Harry a “fun sponge” for criticising several popular attractions around Benidorm.

No matter what activities you choose to do on holiday, it’s always worth doing your research into the activity itself and any past reviews before you part with any money.

Last year, Benidorm welcomed close to 3 million visitors. Despite its reputation as a British holiday mecca – nearly 900,000 UK travellers visited the city in 2024 – it was actually Spanish nationals who made up the largest share, with more than one million domestic visitors flocking to the Costa Blanca resort, according to Benidorm city council. I have a feeling that these visitors did not come for the stereotype of full English breakfasts and pub crawls, but for something often overlooked by international tourists: the authentic, everyday rhythm of Spanish coastal life.

In a country where tourism makes up about 15% of GDP but has also spurred a housing shortage and countermovements, Benidorm offers a contrast to cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where tourism pressures are acute. The city’s mid-20th-century reinvention as a purpose-built resort might once have been controversial, but today it looks surprisingly sustainable in the context of a national housing emergency.

Benidorm was designed and built to handle industrial numbers of visitors – including me. My first visit was in the early 1990s, aged eight, on a classic package holiday with my family. I vividly remember staying up late to play billiards with a rotating cast of kids, and language barriers didn’t matter. Their mothers – and what felt like every other señora in our 20-storey hotel – took turns pinching my cheeks.

The coastal city has long accommodated large numbers of domestic and international travellers without displacing residents at the same rate as elsewhere. Unlike the “live like a local” model that has backfired in Spain’s big cities – such that more and more apartments once meant for residents are now exclusively for tourist use, especially in Madrid, where I’ve lived for 12 years – Benidorm has absorbed demand with ease while still offering an authentic Spanish experience. I’m here to explore exactly that.

Before the sun has fully risen, I walk to Poniente beach, the quieter, more local stretch just west of the old town. It is already full of life. A dozen elderly señores are taking a refreshing, pre-breakfast dip and a group of señoras are easing into the day with a free session of group yoga. As the weather heats up, the Spanish crowd moves away from the main beach to the nearby Cala Almadraba or, further along, to Cala del Tío Ximo. In these two secluded coves beyond the headland, pine trees frame crystal-clear shallows. Even in peak season, these smaller spots remain largely undiscovered by foreign visitors.

By the time the sun is at its highest, many Spaniards are already retreating to long lunches of local cuisine. At La Fava, I find a serene space where chef Fran Burgos serves elegant dishes rooted in Alicante’s coastal traditions – such as grilled aubergine with honeycomb, parmesan soup and seasonal fish – in a tranquil, whitewashed interior. For a classic Iberian diner, Casa Toni boasts Andalusian tiles and legs of jamón hanging above the bar. For paella, a must in the Valencia region, refined seafood restaurant Ducado has an array of rice dishes.

There’s room too for cross-cultural comforts. Ray’s 1, a longstanding British chippy run by a mother and daughter team (both called Teresa), earned a new Spanish fanbase when I wrote about it for Spain’s leading national newspaper, El País. Since then, Teresa senior tells me, they’ve had a regular flow of Spanish customers. Nearby, on my way to the ajuntament (town hall), I spot a queue outside Bar El Puente, a chicken rotisserie run by the same family since 1968 and attracting a mostly Spanish clientele.

Anyone who has visited Benidorm will be familiar with Calle Santo Domingo, a pedestrianised alley in the old town. Here, a global clientele are drawn to the bustling Basque pintxo bars, especially in the evening. But farther inland lies a no-frills and more authentically Spanish tapas destination, just off Avenida Ruzafa. I squeeze into Taperia La Mina, where a bottle of house wine and six tapas costs €11. Restaurant Aitona and El Rincón de La Croqueta offer an equally simple experience. For a slightly quieter but still lively meal, La Mejillonera is known for its large plates of juicy orange mussels, and is worth the wait for a table.

But beyond sun, sea and food, Benidorm is a real Spanish city with real stories. For example, Marina Sanchis opened Casa Cremà, a pottery workshop for locals and visitors alike, having returned to her home town after being forced out of Madrid by soaring rents, and has turned her creative retreat into a thriving community space. She tells me Benidorm has given her something she’d lost in the capital: space, time, and a connection to community.

Many more Spanish artists have been inspired by the coastal metropolis, and their work has featured in the free and often overlooked Museo Boca del Calvari in the old town. María Moldes, who exhibited there a few years ago, is a local social documentary photographer whose photos of Benidorm echo the works of the late Carlos Pérez Siquier. Both photographers capture Spain’s idiosyncrasies through saturated, surreal portraits of Spanish sunbathers. Despite being taken decades apart, their images are almost indistinguishable.

Even online, Benidorm has become something of a Spanish cult favourite. Erik Harley, a satirical influencer from Barcelona, tells me that Benidorm is his favourite place in the universe and he will soon be launching new tours of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers. And then there’s Mulero Ok, as he’s known here, a smartly dressed pensioner whose niche is playing Spanish pop music on his speaker and filming passersby dancing alongside his decorated, slow-gliding mobility scooter.

Among Spanish youth, the city’s cultural relevance is also on the rise. Benidorm Fest is Spain’s official competition to choose its Eurovision entry. Unlike the UK’s often half-hearted approach to the contest, Spain makes a big deal of the selection process and I regularly hear Melody’s Esa Diva, which was chosen as Spain’s entry this year, playing on the radio and in bars. Still only in its third year, the festival has become a defining highlight of the city’s cultural calendar, earning Benidorm a new identity as the country’s unofficial capital of pop.

Beyond the bustle of Benidorm, the nearby area is home to several charming villages that make for a perfect day trip, such as the colourful coastal town of La Vila Joiosa, a short tram ride away. Inland, the ancient hilltop village of El Castell de Guadalest is home to no fewer than eight eclectic museums and boasts stunning views of the Guadalest reservoir – one of Benidorm’s main sources of fresh water.

Benidorm wears its tourist-resort reputation with pride, but it offers far more than the stereotypes suggest. As a Brit abroad occasionally longing for home, I’m not going to deny that the British stereotype of Benidorm has its appeal for me. But I’m also here for what has become even more familiar to me: Spanish culture, local gastronomy and a deeper sense of place – the side of Benidorm that is enjoyed by more than 1 million domestic visitors each year.

In a country grappling with overtourism, Benidorm’s purpose-built design shouldn’t be dismissed as inauthentic. It’s a uniquely Spanish solution to a modern global challenge – and a city with space for everyone.

Benidorm is a top holiday destination for Brits, with its cheap prices, sunny weather and the famous Calle Gerona – best known as ‘the strip’, but there’s a hidden gem nearby

Benidorm is a popular British tourist hotspot known for its sunshine, bargain deals, and the renowned ‘the strip’ on Calle Gerona. But while you’re likely to encounter lively stag and hen parties along the main drag, Benidorm also harbours many stunning, lesser-known gems.

For those holidaymakers looking to escape the party atmosphere, there’s a delightful little town just a stone’s throw from Benidorm. Despite being only minutes away, it offers a tranquil contrast to the party atmosphere for travellers, drawing comparisons to the idyllic beauty of Mykonos.

Hop into a car for an 18-minute journey or catch a 12-minute bus from Benidorm Intermodal station and you’ll arrive at the charming haven of Altea, Alicante.

Touted as one of Spain‘s “most iconic” towns, Altea is akin to stepping into a fairytale past with its winding cobbled lanes and radiant white houses.

Meandering through Altea’s old town, your senses are greeted by the inviting scents of coffee from local cafés and delicacies from cosy eateries.

Visitors are frequently captivated by the stunning parish church, formally named Nuestra Señora del Consuelo or more commonly called Iglesia de Arriba, and the breathtaking views of shimmering seas and vast beaches beyond it.

Alice, an online influencer who shares Benidorm’s hidden treasures and her top picks, recommends adding Altea to any traveller’s itinerary.

The TikTok creator, with an audience of more than 37,000 followers, recently took in the sights of Altea. She saied: “Hidden gem only 15 mins from Benidorm!

“Maybe Altea isn’t a hidden gem for those in the know, but the way you could lowkey be just 15 mins away from this gorgeous slice of history and culture while on your holibobs in Benidorm!”

The travel fan added: “It’s an absolute MUST see if you’re looking to escape for an afternoon to see some of the best views on the entire Costa Blanca. It’s giving cheeky altea day trip, don’t you think?”

The brief video has already racked up over 16,300 likes and a host of positive comments.

One visitor said: “I went there in December. Very nice.” Another said: “There are stunning restaurants and bars. It’s not Benidorm. They may be close but they are worlds apart. Altea is beautiful.”

Another person commented: “It’s simply a stunning old and new town.” Meanwhile, another user hailed it as their “fave place of all time”.

Another added it to their must-visit destinations, saying: “Definitely heading here.. never knew it was so close.”

Flights from the UK to Alicante are available from just £40. From there, you can hop on a bus, grab a taxi, or catch a tram to Benidorm, which should take about 40 minutes by road.

When one man saw film crews working their magic in Benidorm, he and other desperate fans all jumped to the same sitcom-related conclusion – but some disputed it

Rumours are circulating in Benidorm that something exciting is happening – and it’s all about the TV show of the same name. The last series of Benidorm aired in the UK in 2018. For those not in the know, Benidorm is a sitcom that focuses on the adventures of a group of British holidaymakers staying at the Solana holiday resort in Spain.

Back in April, fans started speculating that the show would be making a comeback, despite the fact that the creator, Derren Litten, confirmed in 2019 that the tenth series would be the last. But when a TikToker spotted a film crew in Benidorm, he jumped to the conclusion that they must be filming the elusive 11th series.

Harry, a Brit in Benidorm who posts on TikTok as @harrytokky, wrote over the top of a video of a film crew on the strip: “Breaking news. Film crews are filming right now in Benidorm outside the Red Lion”.

At the bottom of the video, he penned: “Wait… are they filming Benidorm series 11 right now?! What do you think?”

He showed the camera crew filming, as he gushed: “Holy moly, this is unbelievable”. In the short clip, someone in the background could be heard saying they thought it was Benidorm series 11.

However, in the comments, people were sceptical, and one woman even put the rumour to bed with the information she’d managed to get from film crews.

“I doubt they’d film in peak season,” a sceptic wrote, but someone shared: “Another 4 weeks until peak season. They film in the ‘Solana’ with people on holiday there. They just close off one end of the pool”.

“They use the tourists as extras in Benidorm, it’s well known,” another man alleged.

Others shared that it couldn’t be Benidorm, because none of the beloved actors could be seen in the video. One fumed: “Not hard to tell if it’s Benidorm or not.”

And another penned: “Not to be a Debbie Downer, but Benidorm hasn’t officially been commissioned, so unless this is for an announcement ad (which I highly doubt), it’s not Benidorm unfortunately”.

But someone argued, saying: “Makes sense it would be Benidorm though, cause Darren and all the main cast have been cryptic as f*** lately online trying to hint to the fans about a season 11 coming, wouldn’t talk about it if there was no chance and now this. I’d say it’s likely I can’t lie”.

However, others said they’d seen the crew themselves and stopped to ask more questions. One tourist claimed: “We were walking down before and my dad asked the light crew. They said they can’t say what it is but it’s a Spanish program!!!!!”

Meanwhile, someone else alleged: “They’re making a film, not Benidorm. I asked them last night.”

Do you think season 11 of Benidorm will ever happen? Let us know in the comments…

Harry is known for sharing travel content online, but he recently turned his attention to fish and chips. He was left floored by the price of a meal in Benidorm recently

A man bought fish and chips when he was exploring Benidorm, but was left totally floored by the price. Harry, who often shares his adventures in Spain online, is known for making travel content, and he recently decided to sample fish and chips at the popular holiday resort.

Known as HarryTokky on TikTok, he said he may have sampled the “best” fish and chips he’s tried in Benidorm so far, and he found them at Ray’s Chippy 2. He raved about the recent meal he had at the restaurant, and shared his thoughts with his followers; however, he was left rather astounded by the price.

In the clip, he admitted he’s been told it was the “best chippy” in town, so he decided to give it a try. With many people opting to sample fish and chips when they visit Benidorm, he thought it was important to sample what’s on offer.

He opted for a small cod and chips, as well as curry sauce and a soft drink. When he was handed the food, he admitted it looked “absolutely amazing.”

Harry said: “We’ve got the small cod and chips, we’ve got the gravy as well. No, we’ve got the curry sauce, my apologies. Let’s get plenty of salt on there.

“Oh the batter is incredible, super crunchy. Beautiful, beautiful. Honestly, it’s that hot, I cannot even eat it. I’m going to have to wait a few minutes for it to cool down but, honestly, this is so tasty.

“I mean, if you are coming to Benidorm, you’ve got to check this place out. It’s incredible. Right guys, I have just finished my meal, and I have no other words other than exceptional.”

Warning: Below video may contain offensive language

When he was handed the bill, he told viewers the meal came to €13.65. When converted, this equates to around £11.68, and Harry thought it was an “absolute bargain.”

He signs off the video by decribing the eatery as a “secret hidden gem”, and he spoke highly of how good the food was. People were quick to comment and share their thoughts after he posted the video.

One said: “Was there two weeks ago – best chippy in Benidorm.” Another added: “It looks lovely – can’t wait to try it.”

A third replied: “I’ll check it out when I’m over in September. I’ve heard it’s the best in Beni.” Meanwhile, a fourth also commented: “I was there last week – spot on and great price too.”

Others were also quick to recommend other places to get fish and chips in the area that are also highly rated. Some examples included Dave’s Chippy, Planet Benidorm and John and Joseph’s, among others.

To put the price into perspective, it’s reported the average price for a regular portion of fish and chips in the UK comes in at around £9.88. Prices can vary significantly though, with London being known for offering the most expensive price at £22.50 for a larger portion.

Meanwhile, in West Yorkshire, it’s said you may be able to snap up the much-loved meal for as little as £6.70 for a smaller portion. However, portion sizes also vary greatly, as some shops can serve a regular fish up to 12oz and chips up to 20oz.

If you didn’t know, the price of cod and haddock has rocketed by 75% in the past year as a result of supply chain disruptions and global factors like the Ukraine war. While the price rise could hit the pockets of punters, it appears Brits still love tucking into fish and chips.

According to average prices, a classic cod and chips will cost you around £10.92. Meanwhile, the average price of haddock and chips is slightly higher at £11.13.

Smaller meal portions tend to come in between £5 to £8, while larger portions can set you back around £11. If it’s high end fish and chips you’re after, the price can vary from anything to £25 to £80.

When two young men broke into a British family’s hotel room in Benidorm, a mum-of-two had a totally fearless reaction to the terrifying situation – and she has issued an urgent warning to holidaymakers

When a British mum was faced with a terrifying situation on holiday in Benidorm – her reaction was totally fearless.

As her family prepared to say goodbye to their holiday in the sunshine and return home to Eastleigh, Hampshire – they were warned about the potential for power cuts in the hotel.

So Becca Farley, 27, decided to stroll back to her hotel room to make sure that the family’s phones were charged up ahead of their flight home the following day, but things quickly took a terrifying turn.

Becca was staying at the Magical Tropical Splash in Benidorm, and was sharing a family-sized room – that set them back £2500 for the week – with her partner and two children, ages six and 11.

But the mum-of-two was on her own as she made her way back to the room. “As I got in the lift these two teenagers got in the lift with me and just pressed my floor level,” she explained.

“I honestly didn’t think anything of it because there’s five rooms per floor so I just assumed they were going to one of them.”

As she arrived on her floor, things got a little bit weird. The two young men walked straight into her room, the door of which was ajar, with a shoe being used as a wedge.

“I thought oh s**t I have obviously got off on the wrong floor, what a palaver I’m going to have to wait for the lift again. But it was the right floor,” she said. “It happened all quite quickly and they just strolled straight into my room.

“I then followed in after them, which in hindsight, I shouldn’t have because you hear horror stories and I think it could have gone sour.

“But I just didn’t really think and went straight into the room and shouted ‘What are you doing in my room?'”

One of the criminals began raising their voice at Becca, speaking in Spanish, but the incredible mum-of-two stood her ground, screaming “Get the f*** out, get the f*** out, get the f*** out.”

Eventually, given Becca’s screaming, the pair cut their losses and scarpered – giving her the opportunity to slam the door shut and lock it, but the ordeal wasn’t over. The intruders returned and began banging repeatedly on her door – leaving the mum-of-two “petrified” inside.

She said: “I know it sounds silly and people have said ‘you should have done this, you should have locked them in the room, you should have decked them’, but at that moment I think it was just that invasion of privacy.

“This is supposed to be your safe place when you are away, you’re away from home, we don’t travel all that often so we were really shaken.”

The incident massively impacted the holidaymaker, and she admitted “That night I did not sleep because I was flinching at every noise,” and added that, “If it had happened earlier on in the week we would have flown home.”

She reported the incident to the security at the hotel, and she was told that similar incidents had occurred recently – with one family having all their valuables stolen, including their passports.

Becca urged all holidaymakers to stay on high alert whilst they are away, and don’t let the relaxing nature of a break in the sunshine make you “naive”.

“I would advise just to be alert,” she said. “A lot of people have said we were scaremongering people not to go away, not at all.

“We will certainly go on holiday again, it’s not a case of us never going abroad again but I think it’s just having that awareness that if you are a lone woman, please be careful.

“I’m very lucky that I’m OK but I think it’s just a case of having your wits about you a bit more. When you go on holiday you tend to relax and become a little bit naive to these situations.”

She advised that people buy some padlocks and keep their valuables locked away in their suitcases whilst on holiday. “Obviously keep your valuables safe.

“I know some people say don’t use the safes, we personally lock all of ours and padlock them in our suitcases.

“I think it’s just a case of having your wits about you and knowing not to get comfortable in somewhere you’ve never been before.”

The mum-of-two added that she will be thinking twice after the scary incident and being extra careful the next time she goes abroad. “I’m considering getting a webcam that you can put in your room next time we go away. I will carry on locking my stuff away. I would never take the kids away on my own.

“I certainly wouldn’t have cleaners in my room ever again, not to say it definitely was them but they have access to your room.

“I don’t know if I would feel comfortable going up to a room on my own again,” she added.

Magical Tropical Splash Hotel has been contacted for comment.

British holidaymakers Mark and Karen Gregory, both 50, are frequent Benidorm-goers and usually opt to stay at apartments – but their accommodation often overlooks major hotel pools

Holidaymakers at a Benidorm hotel have been filmed participating in a frantic “sunbed dash”, where every available lounger is claimed within a staggering three minutes.

Frequent Spain holidaymakers Mark and Karen Gregory, both 50, typically opt for apartment accommodations that often overlook major hotel pools, giving them a front-row seat to the morning mayhem.

During their May trip, the couple from Swansea, Wales, captured multiple instances of sun-hungry Brits racing to secure the best sunbeds. Mark, who runs an online sales business, recounted: “We saw people queuing from first thing – the queues were horrendous! People were properly running in.

“One hotel we did stay in, the pool opened at 8.30am and by 8.33am every bed had a towel on. I think it happens everywhere – just because hotels don’t have as many beds as they do guests.”

Have you witnessed any hotel shenanigans? Email [email protected]

READ MORE: Livid Brits take ‘sunbed wars to a whole new level’ with sneaky 2am tactics

The pair prefer to observe the chaos rather than participate. Mark added: “We don’t partake at all, we just observe. I know it’s a bugbear for a lot of tourists – but we just find it funny.”

Making sure you have a good spot by the pool or beach is serious business. And the stakes are high.

Brits who lay out their towels to reserve a sunbed for hours at a time have been warned they could face hefty fines of up to €250 (approximately £210).

The team at travel insurance comparison site Tiger.co.uk have warned Brits heading on Spain holidays to think twice before laying out a towel on the beach, as it could actually land you facing some hefty extra charges.

They explained: “In popular areas of Spain like Barcelona and Costa Blanca, tourists can now be fined €250 for reserving sunbeds, meaning waking up early to bag a spot for you and the family is no longer allowed. This rule was introduced following numerous complaints about sunbeds being reserved for hours with no one in sight.”

The rules were brought into force last year, in a bid to stop tourists from reserving spots on public beaches with towels and sunbeds, despite then not returning for hours a time – meaning other visitors had to make do with leftover space, causing issues such as fights breaking out, or crowding.

The fines don’t always stop poor behaviour, however.

While having a late-night chinwag on their balcony in Magaluf, Spain, Mandy Boyd spotted some lads she thought were having a cheeky swim in the pool. But upon closer inspection, the 34-year-old realised the young men were trying to nab the best beds at 2am, despite the fact that the pool wasn’t due to open until 9am the next day.

The quartet of girls watched as the lads dragged out their sunloungers to try and secure prime spots. Mandy and her mates patiently waited on the balcony for the perfect moment to dash down and swipe the towels.

Becca Farley was on holiday with her partner and two young children in Benidorm, Spain, when she caught two teenagers in her room on the last night of their break

A mum-of-two has sounded the alarm for holidaymakers after a distressing incident at a Spanish hotel where her room was unexpectedly invaded.

Becca Farley, 27, from Eastleigh, Hampshire, was enjoying a getaway in Benidorm with her family when she encountered intruders in their accommodation. The family had shelled out £2,500 for their week-long retreat.

On their final evening, amidst hotel notices about an impending power outage, Becca headed to their room to charge mobile phones ahead of their journey back. She recounted the unsettling moment: “As I got in the lift these two teenagers got in the lift with me and just pressed my floor level. I honestly didn’t think anything of it because there’s five rooms per floor, so I just assumed they were going to one of them.”

Have you had a holiday go wrong? Email [email protected]

READ MORE: easyJet tried to charge woman £70 for bag, so she put on seven pairs of trousers

However, the situation took a turn when the youths exited the lift before her and made a beeline for her room, which was propped open with a shoe. Initially confused, Becca thought she had got off on the wrong floor, but she quickly realised that wasn’t the case.

“It happened all quite quickly and they just strolled straight into my room,” she said. Becca decided to follow them inside and confront them.

“But I just didn’t really think and went straight into the room and shouted ‘What are you doing in my room? Get the f*ck out, get the f*ck out, get the f*ck out’.” Thankfully, the teenagers did.

Yet, the ordeal hadn’t ended—the youth hammered on the door shortly after while Becca remained barricaded inside. “I was absolutely petrified,” she confessed.

“I know it sounds silly and people have said you should have done this, you should have locked them in the room, you should have decked them but at that moment I think it was just that invasion of privacy. This is supposed to be your safe place when you are away, you’re away from home, we don’t travel all that often so we were really shaken.”

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That night was sleepless for Becca; every sound made her jolt with anxiety. “If it had happened earlier on in the week we would have flown home.”

Despite being accused of scaremongering by some, she insists it’s not about deterring travel or singling out a particularly destination as being dangerous.

“A lot of people have said we were scaremongering people not to go away, not at all. We will certainly go on holiday again, it’s not a case of us never going abroad again but I think it’s just having that awareness that if you are a lone woman, please be careful,” she added.

“I’m very lucky that I’m OK but I think it’s just a case of having your wits about you a bit more. When you go on holiday you tend to relax and become a little bit naive to these situations.

“Obviously keep your valuables safe. I know some people say don’t use the safes, we personally lock all of ours and padlock them in our suitcases. I think it’s just a case of having your wits about you and knowing not to get comfortable in somewhere you’ve never been before.”

Despite her intention to continue her travels, Becca admitted she will adopt more stringent security measures.

“I’m considering getting a webcam that you can put in your room next time we go away. I will carry on locking my stuff away. I would never take the kids away on my own. I certainly wouldn’t have cleaners in my room ever again, not to say it definitely was them but they have access to your room. I don’t know if I would feel comfortable going up to a room on my own again.”

Harry Poulton regularly shares his travel tips and advice about the sunny location with his 41,700 followers on TikTok, and has now delivered a stark warning to holidaymakers

A Brit living in Benidorm has revealed the three things tourists are being fined for while visiting the Spanish destination’s beach.

Harry Poulton regularly shares his travel tips and advice about the sunny location with his 41,700 followers on TikTok. In a recent clip, which has racked up 43,000 views and hundreds of likes, he’s shared the top three things Brits do while at the beach which could land them a hefty fine.

The 24-year-old’s first piece of advice is to avoid swimming in the sea at unrestricted hours. He explains: “You can’t swim between midnight and 7am at Benidorm [beach] otherwise you’re going to end up with a massive fine.” This can range from anywhere between €300 and €1,500 (£255 – £1,278).

When it comes to beach hogging, that’s a big no-no in Benidorm. “Reserving spots on the beach – that means putting your towel down [and] reserving a seat – not okay,” the content creator, from Brighton, said.

READ MORE: Spain warning for Brits as new holiday rule comes into force from July 1

“Not allowed. “You can actually get a fine of up to €200 for reserving a spot on the beach. “Even just leaving your towel down somewhere on the beach can get you a massive fine. So just don’t do it.”

His final piece of advice is to avoid smoking and vaping while at the seaside. The ban on vapes has already come into force in Spain and Italy, with France next to implement the change on 1 July. Those caught with the e-cigarette could be forced to fork out a whopping £1,700.

The same rule applies for cigarettes. Harry explained: “To be honest, probably the most important one; smoking on Benidorm’s beach. Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there if you’re a smoker. Don’t do it – if you get caught, you are going to be fined.

“They are proper on it at the moment, so if you do all those things, you’re going to get a fine. If you don’t, then you’ll be absolutely fine.”

In 2024, the Spanish Medical Association unveiled new anti-smoking regulations that also encompass vaping in public spaces such as beaches and restaurant terraces.

Several well-known Spanish beaches where vaping prohibitions are now in effect include L’Albir Beach in Alicante, Levante and Poniente Beaches in Benidorm, Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, and Bogatell in Barcelona, and Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia. If caught breaking the law, travellers could face penalties up to €2,000, equivalent to £1,700.

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Holidaymakers heading to France this summer should also be cautious about where they are vaping. From July 1, France will prohibit smoking in outdoor areas frequented by children, including beaches, parks, schools, bus stops, and sports venues. This is part of a wider initiative that started in 2011 with a beach ban and has since broadened.

Those caught breaking these laws could face fines of up to €135 (£115).

A Benidorm expert has warned Brits that a common crime in the popular tourist hotspot has taken a “scarier twist” in recent times – and she knows from personal experience

A Benidorm specialist has issued a stark warning to Brits, stating that a common crime in the popular holiday destination has taken a “scarier twist”.

Michelle Baker, who moved to Spain 40 years ago and raised a family in Benidorm while running a newspaper for two decades, now shares information through her Facebook group, Benidormforever. She has urged visitors to stay alert.

“Phone theft is the No1 crime in Benidorm and it’s now taken a scarier twist,” she penned, revealing details about a new phone scam.

She added: “I’m generally very positive about Benidorm, but several people I know personally have told me this happened to them recently (all of whom I consider streetwise individuals and none were drunk).”

Michelle revealed that she nearly fell victim herself to this crime in recent weeks, describing it as “clearly common and very easy to fall for”, before explaining what the crime involved.

She explained: “You’re approached by an agitated young individual who has ‘lost’ his friends and can’t remember where he’s staying. He explains vaguely where he thinks it is and you open Google Maps on your phone to help him find his way.

“Once your phone is unlocked he snatches it and runs FAST; with adrenaline on his side he’s a two second head-start before you even react. Quickly passing the phone to tech savvy experts, within minutes passwords were expertly changed and large amounts of savings swiped.

“I was lucky; I didn’t get my phone out I simply told the chap who stopped me where his hotel was… but my friends weren’t so lucky and are absolutely gutted to have fallen for this.

“It’s even sadder when you consider the many recent genuine stories of tourists getting lost, sometimes with tragic endings..

“So the moral of the story is; keep your phone out of sight; at best it’ll be swiped from a bar table and sold on for a few euros… but now it appears you’ll have all your money nicked too.”

Michelle emphasised that while the incidents were non-violent, they could still “ruin your holiday”.

She added, if you are approached by someone seemingly lost asking for help, guide them to the nearest hotel rather than whipping out your mobile.

Ominous reports earlier in the year included a British tourist in Benidorm being targeted by thieves who made off with his phone, leading to a staggering £16,000 spent via the pilfered handset.

Following the incident, two young individuals, aged 19 and 20, were apprehended by the Policia Nacional.

The authorities subsequently issued advice to never enter passwords or codes into your phone if there are onlookers, and to utilise different passwords for banking applications as a precaution against theft.

The Foreign Office has issued a warning to travellers, stating: “Be alert to the risk of street crime. 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.

“Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe. Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.”

As visitor numbers to the party-mad region of Benidorm continues to soar, officials are clamping down on tourists breaking a little-known rule when it comes to renting out mobility scooters

Sun-worshipping Brits are being warned not to break a little-known rule that could land them with a hefty fine.

Last year, a whopping 2.8 million tourists flocked to the party-mad resort of Benidorm, marking a 2.9 per cent jump compared to 2023. The boom has largely been attributed to UK holidaymakers – who have been flocking to the sunny hotspot as early as the 1950s.

Lured in by golden sandy beaches and cobalt waters, Benidorm is famous for its vibrant nightlife and wild entertainment, which has long been popular with Stag and Hen Dos. It is the place to be if you want to drink yourself silly in a fancy dress costume, and sober up the next day with a huge English Breakfast.

The Spanish city, located on the eastern coast of Valencia’s iconic Costa Blanca, has a reputation for attracting elderly Brits who rely on mobility scooters to get from A to B – which has no doubt been perpetuated by the acclaimed TV series, Benidorm. But demand for these vehicles isn’t just a stereotype, as there are more than a dozen mobility scooter shops in the region.

READ MORE: Huge blow to Greece as tourists abandon popular island for key reason

However, many people do not realise that Benidorm Local Law explicitly states you must be aged over 55 years old or have a certified disability for walking in order to rent an electrical scooter. Renters will also take a cash deposit from customers and make them sign a contract laying out all of the strict rules they must abide by.

This includes always carrying their rental contract with them, and avoiding slopes with an incline greater than five percent. Carrying multiple passengers on an individual scooter is also prohibited.

“Never leave the key when going down the Scooter,” warns Amigo24, a popular mobility scooter rental firm in Benidorm. “[You] will not be covered by your insurance in case of robbery.”

Following a rise in complaints over tourists renting vehicles for fun, and without proper insurance, the council has since emphasised that the use of mobility scooters is ‘strictly limited’ to those that genuinely need the aid. According to EuroNews, authorities are also cracking down on those driving around the city at ‘dangerous speeds’. Violating any of these rules risks sky-high fines of up to €500 (approximately £425).

“Mobility scooters are designed for those with walking difficulties,” Lee Cartwright, mobility scooter specialist at Mobility Solutions Direct, told Bristol Live. “If you can walk safely without one and you don’t have a permit for one, it is best not to ride a mobility scooter to avoid a fine.”

The expert urged those who do need to use a mobility scooter to stick to the speed limit, which is 4mph when on the pavement. Class three mobility scooters, which are intended to be driven on the roads, are allowed to go up to 8mph.

“A majority of those using a scooter without permission are young British people who are using the vehicle to go clubbing rather than pay for a taxi,” he added. “But this results in reckless driving, such as weaving through traffic, driving too closely to others, and failing to be aware of their surroundings. Riding a scooter while intoxicated is both hazardous and against the law, similar to driving a car under the influence.”

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

A ‘scam’ is rife on the streets of Benidorm according to a British man who has lived in the resort town for 13 years – and others have admitted to falling for it and ending up losing money

If you plan on travelling to Benidorm this summer, you may wish to heed the advice of a Brit living in the Spanish resort who has sounded the alarm over a new “scam” said to be sweeping the region. Frank moved to the Mediterranean coast 13 years ago, and as well as hosting parties as ‘The Stag Man’, he also offers advice to fellow Brits heading to the coastal city.

Taking to TikTok on Tuesday (June 10), he said fraudsters have a new trick that you “probably won’t be aware of”. In video recorded on the streets of Benidorm, Frank pointed out a number of people holding clipboards who are approaching passers-by. And after turning down the opportunity to fill out a “petition” himself, he explained: “As you’ve seen there, this is one of the scams that runs along the beachfront.”

But how does it work? Frank claimed that holidaymakers are asked to sign petitions, which once completed, they are pushed into making a donation.

His partner interjected, stating: “They’ll say it’s for the blind or the disabled and that they are petitioning to get something sorted here in Spain.”

However, she slammed: “It’s full of a load of rubbish and illegal to do this here in Spain.” Frank added: “They’re illegal, scamming, and they will take your money. Some people even get their wallets out and give them a few quid.”

Proving that some Brits are falling for the trick, one TikTok user responded: “My husband fell for this in Old Town. A guy claiming he was deaf, my husband being deaf, we didn’t realise the scam till after.”

A second praised: “Thank you for the heads up. We are coming next Monday. I got scammed with the potato game three years ago.”

A third revealed: “I had this scam done to me and my partner luckily we had no cash on us.”

A fourth detailed: “I got caught in Old Town, he wanted €10 from me, when I said no he was so rude until my husband showed up.”

Whilst a fifth TikTok user recalled: “I had the same guy do it at Placa del Castell last Wednesday. Told him no three times for him to go away. Felt bad for the ones who stop and listen to him that don’t know any better.”

In a separate clip last week, meanwhile, Frank pointed out another “big problem” with holidaymakers having their phones stolen. He explained: “Generally, what happens is, someone comes up to you and they’ll say to you ‘oh, I’m with some friends, and I’m lost, and I don’t know where I’m going. Can you do a Google Map search for me?’

“What you do, because you’re a nice person, is you whip your phone out, you get your Google Maps up, and as soon as you get your Google Maps up, they grab the phone and run off with it.”

Benidorm sits in the middle of the Costa Blanca and according to an index from online holiday provider, Travel Republic, British tourists accounted for 45% of overnight stays in this city alone in 2024, totalling over 600,000 visitors.

The city boasts 32 British pubs, many of which stream live sports daily and are known for their very low beer prices.

Benidorm is one of the biggest winners in Spain of the drop in British holidaymakers choosing Magaluf following the party resort “clean-up”, local bar and nightclub chiefs say

A Spanish holiday resort once beloved by Brits is seeing its popularity falter amid efforts to tidy up its image.

According to Miguel Perez-Marsa, head of the ABONE nightclub association on Majorca, young Brits are shunning Magaluf. The area used to be overrun by UK tourists during the summer but now attracts a more diverse European crowd. Miguel argued that Brits feel “demonized.”

French and Italian visitors, who tend to drink less and spend less on nights out, are filling the void left by British revellers. At the same time, British youths, once the mainstay of Magaluf’s raucous Punta Ballena strip, have been “steam-rollered” and are now heading to Benidorm and other “more-welcoming” resorts, Miguel said.

While more British families are visiting Magaluf, they’re choosing all-inclusive deals, which means they’re spending less money outside their hotels, Miguel told Diario de Mallorca.

READ MORE: Brits in Spain horrified at booze price hikes putting resorts beyond budget for summer hols

The reputation of Magaluf took a hit following the release of a scandalous sex video in June 2014, involving a British tourist in a bar, which resulted in a year-long closure of the establishment and a concerted effort by local authorities to clean up the resort’s image.

Magaluf’s infamous party strip has been under the spotlight since Majorca’s leading politician at the time, Jose Ramon Bauza, slammed Punta Ballena as “500 metres of shame”. This came after an 18-year-old girl was tricked into performing sex acts for a supposed free holiday, only to receive a cocktail named ‘Holiday’.

Fines reaching up to £50,000 were introduced for tourists caught balcony jumping, and alcohol service with meals at all-inclusive hotels in areas like Magaluf was restricted under a regional government decree targeting ‘drunken tourism’, introduced five years ago.

Last year saw even stricter measures, including £1,300 penalties for street drinking and mandatory night-time shutdowns of alcohol-selling shops in parts of Magaluf.

In May 2024 the Mirror’s Hollie Bone visited Magaluf and was shocked by the levels of debauchery on display, despite these efforts.

“In just one night our reporter was offered cocaine five times and witnessed a stag party buying a huge can of nitrous oxide, known as hippy crack, before using it openly in a bar. And previous visitors have urged those going this year to be careful as thuggish bouncers, incidents of spiking and theft still plague the party town,” she wrote.

“During our week in Magaluf we witnessed several blatant breaches of the new laws. We saw members of the stag party buy two one litre bottles of vodka and gin after making an after-hours deal with a takeaway owner at 3am. The same group also bought the nitrous oxide and inhaled balloons of the gas in front of nonchalant bar workers.

“Revellers are still enticed into bars by the offers of a free shot with their first drink. For some young Britons a summer season here is still as attractive and exciting as it was eight years ago. One barman from Tottenham, North London, told us he came here in 2016 and has never looked back.”

During a visit in May last year, Britain’s then-Ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott, called on visitors in the Majorcan hotspot to “show responsibility” and remember they are “guests” in Spain. British holidaymakers form the majority of Benidorm’s international visitors.

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Recent statistics revealed that over two-thirds of the Costa Blanca resort’s tourists in May were from overseas, with an encouraging average hotel occupancy rate of 84.7% for the month.

This Sunday an anti-mass tourism demonstrators are gearing up for another rally in the Majorcan capital, Palma. The event is orchestrated by activist group Menys Turisme, Mes Vida, with a coalition of 60 organisations confirming their participation.

Activists from other cities such as Barcelona and San Sebastian are set to join in a series of synchronised protests. A spokesperson for Menys Turisme, Mes Vida declared last week: “We will demonstrate for the right to a decent life and to demand the brakes are put on the touristification of this island.”

Pensioner Freda Jackson had been looking forward to her holiday in Benidorm all year, but ended up outraged at the number of Spanish guests at her hotel

A British tourist claims she ended up crying at the end of her two-week holiday to Benidorm as her hotel had “too many Spaniards in it”.

Freda Jackson, from Blackburn, Lancashire had booked to stay at the Poseidon Playa, located on the outskirts of the popular tourist spot with a pal back in April 2017.

The following year, the pensioner, who is in her eighties, opened up about the allegedly miserable time she had on her trip raging, “why can’t the Spaniards go somewhere else for their holidays?”

According to retired care assistant Freda, her hotel was full with supposedly “rude” Spanish people, one of whom almost knocked her “flying” without so much as an apology.

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Grandmother-of-six Freda, who lives with mobility issues, revealed: “The hotel was full of Spanish holidaymakers and they really got on our nerves because they were just so rude.

“One evening a Spanish guy nearly knocked me flying and he just walked off without even apologising.”

And when it came to the entertainment on offer, unimpressed Freda was left far from amused. She recalled: “The entertainment in the hotel was all focused and catered for the Spanish – why can’t the Spanish go somewhere else for their holidays?”

As explained by Freda, she’d been recommended the Poseidon Playa by travel operator Thomas Cook, and was left dismayed on a number of counts.

Although she’d request flat ground access, Freda says her accommodation was located on a slope. She and her friend, who had paid a total of £1,133 for the holiday, went on to demand either a full refund or a free trip as compensation.

Freda continued: “I have never complained about a holiday before – but this one was a disaster from start to finish. My friend and I paid for it from our pensions and it was a struggle trying to fund it over 12 months and the holiday was totally ruined – I cried after.

“We wanted to go somewhere on flat ground and not in the hills because we have mobility issues. To top it off, once we got to reception they told us we had been put on the 14th floor – thankfully we were moved to the second floor – and that it was 42 steps down to the hotel’s swimming pool.”

Freda, who has previously enjoyed trips to Greece, Turkey, Portugal and Tenerife, alleged that Thomas Cook “mis-sold” and “ruined” what should have been a dream holiday.

She and her then 61-year-old friend journeyed 1,500 miles from Manchester Airport to Alicante on May 10 of that year, having allegedly not been notified that their flight dates had changed.

According to Freda, she had to submit a letter of complaint directly to Thomas Cook, as there were no reps on the holiday to whom she could air her various grievances. Thomas Cook bosses initially offered the duo a £75 holiday voucher as compensation for the “disappointing” experience.

A Thomas Cook spokesperson issued the following statement at the time: “Due to a system error Ms Jackson was not informed of a change to her flights until six days before departure.

“We are very sorry for the inconvenience this caused and are investigating to make sure it doesn’t happen again. We have offered Ms Jackson and her travel companion a gesture of goodwill to try and put things right, which we hope she will accept.”

The grandmother later denied to the Mirror that she had made any derogatory comments about Spanish people.

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