Spain holidays

A ‘faeces fountain’ has been filmed bubbling up through the streets of a popular UK expat hotspot – with horrified locals sharing footage and confirming it ‘smells awful’

Horrified locals at a Brit holiday hotspot have shared grim footage of what seems to be human waste bubbling up through the ground during heavy rain.

Shocking images show rising sewage lifting a manhole cover and spilling onto the pavement. The pounding rain liquefied the waste, causing it to quickly flood the surrounding area, turning it a murky brown. The video, shared online on October 29, was captured on a main road in Fuengirola – a favourite spot for British tourists and expats – on Spain’s Costa del Sol.

“It smells awful,” commented a local passer-by. A spokesperson from the town hall stated: “We have a special team in place, with vehicles and staff working across the city to inspect and act where needed. The area is being monitored, and work is underway to get everything back to normal.”

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Social media users took to the comments section to poke fun at the situation with one person saying: “When you lose the battle just as you’re reaching the bathroom.” Another video, shared the same day, shows a “faecal fountain” further up the coast in Torremolinos – another British holiday hotspot. An ankle-deep torrent gushed down the road, with a column of spray rising in the centre like a water feature. Spain’s Andalusia region woke up to chaos yesterday as a violent storm battered the area with torrential rain, tornadoes, and flash floods.

Huelva and Seville provinces were hit hardest, with Huelva recording up to 160 litres of rain per square metre. It comes one month after eight people were injured in an explosion on a “tourist boat” in the Costa del Sol resort. Three of the casualties have sustained what are being described as serious injuries and have been taken to hospital. The incident occurred as the motorboat, described locally as a tourist boat, was leaving the marina in the Spanish town.

Footage from the scene showed firefighters in the marina dousing the flames with hoses from the closest point on dry land after locals on jet skis and other boats went to the aid of the stricken passengers and helped try to put out the fire. The alarm was sounded around 12.20pm on October 4 with several witnesses calling the emergency services as a black plume of smoke rose into the air which was clearly visible from nearby beaches. The cause of the explosion is not clear.

A fisherman working in the area said: “It was an open boat made of polyester, which is a very bad combination with fuel because it burns very quickly.” The boat sank as a result of the fire on board. The area where the incident happened has now been sealed off as an investigation gets underway.

Fuengirola Town Hall said in a statement: “The Rescue and Lifesaving Service, the Fire Department, and the Local Police of Fuengirola, as well as the Civil Guard, responded today to a fire on a boat sailing in the marina, near the mouth of the harbour. For reasons which are still unclear there was an explosion and the boat caught fire. Within minutes, rescue workers from the Rescue Service reached the crew and brought them to safety.

“A total of eight people were on board. All of them were injured, three of them seriously, and they were placed in the care of emergency medical responders. As a result of the explosion, the boat sank and officials from the Andalusian Ports Agency are closely monitoring the situation to assess the need for anti-spill measures.”

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Kelsie Stonya, from Southend-on-Sea, recently took on the ultimate ‘extreme day trip’ – travelling to Palma, Mallorca, and returning to the UK in the same day – all for just £143

A woman who jetted off to Spain for just a few hours – and still managed to squeeze in sightseeing, shopping, and sunbathing – says it cost her less than a night out in the UK.

Kelsie Stonya, from Southend-on-Sea, recently took on the ultimate “extreme day trip” – battling a storm while trying for a quick getaway. She hopped on a delayed plane to Palma, Mallorca, and returned to Britain in the same day – all for just £143.

The 25-year-old hit the beach, tucked into paella for one, and even ended up in the cockpit chatting to the pilot after a delayed flight. Her whirlwind day out proved a hit online too – with a TikTok video of her experience racking up 42,600 views from viewers loving the spontaneous adventure.

“It was so hot, so sunny – it was absolutely dreamy,” she told What’s The Jam. “The whole trip cost £143.08 including flights, transfers, food and everything – definitely cheaper than some nights out I’ve had before.

“By the end of it, with all the walking and being hot, I was so, so tired. I’d definitely do it again, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed for no delayed flights next time.”

The communications manager started her day at the airport, but things didn’t exactly go to plan when she arrived to find every flight delayed due to Storm Amy battering parts of Europe. Thankfully, her flight did eventually take off.

Once she landed, Kelsie jumped on a 20-minute bus into Palma’s city centre where she admired the cathedral, wandered the streets, and hunted down a restaurant. After lunch, she strolled to the beach to soak up the sun, calling the weather “absolutely dreamy”, before hitting the shops.

By the end of the day, exhausted but happy, she splurged on an Uber back to the airport – putting her Spanish skills to the test with the driver.

The return leg didn’t go smoothly either, with the flight delayed by two hours – but things took a turn for the better when the friendly pilot invited passengers into the cockpit for a peek.

Kelsie says she’d “absolutely do it again”, but is hoping for smoother skies next time.

She said: “I just had a really nice lunch and then headed over to the beach. I walked about 20 minutes and then sat down for a good hour. The thought of getting back on the bus to the airport was honestly upsetting me, so I just jumped in an Uber.”

Viewers were quick to praise Kelsie for making the most of her mini break. “That’s an impressive day Kels,” said one person.

Someone else said: “I do it all the time; great way to spend the day.”

Another viewer added: “I love doing these! So far I’ve done Belfast, Wroclaw, Alicante, Copenhagen and now have Barcelona booked for the end of this month.”

Spain is a fantastic place for a cockle-warming winter break that won’t break the bank. Here are the five warmest winter sun destinations in Spain for December escapes

Spain is a brilliant choice for a winter getaway that won’t leave your wallet feeling light.

While far-flung locations such as Thailand, Dubai, Egypt and Morocco might be the traditional go-to spots for winter sun, there are loads of fantastic places in mainland Spain and its islands that are worth a look.

Not only are they often just as toasty, but they’re also cheaper and much quicker to reach.

Here’s our top pick:

1. Murcia, southern Spain

December temperature highs: 18C

In a big win for those itching to escape our drizzly isles, Ryanair has just revealed it will be running a London to Murcia flight four times a week, with the journey clocking in at just under three hours. The timing of this new route is spot on for those who’ve already had their fill of autumn weather. This week, Murcia has seen highs of 31C, while in November it can reach up to 21C.

While it’s not the warmest destination in December and January, with daytime highs of 18C and 17C respectively, it tends to be mild and have low rainfall. However, it’s worth packing some snug pyjamas, as it can get chilly at night. The city of Murcia is brimming with activities, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It was settled by the Romans and the Moors.

Make sure to visit Murcia Cathedral, a stunning, Gothic cathedral that towers over the city, or the Santa Clara Museum, which was once a Muslim palace that became a monastery in the 14th century.

Flights from as little as £13 are currently available from UK cities including Manchester, London and Birmingham.

December temperature highs: 26C

Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring”, Tenerife is Spain’s top winter sun destination. The island offers a plethora of attractions, such as Mount Teide National Park, black- and golden-sand beaches, and bustling resorts like Costa Adeje or Playa de las Américas.

Tenerife has been a favourite among Brits for nearly a century. Mass tourism flourished throughout the 20th century, particularly after World War II, transforming areas like Playa de las Américas into major resorts to cater to the worldwide demand for sun holidays.

The YouTuber Escape With Us is such an enthusiast of Tenerife that he decided to spend Christmas there in 2023, leaving his family behind to jet off to the Canary Island.

“Why would you want to sit at home in the freezing cold when you can come here and enjoy this?” he queried while strolling through Las Américas in a T-shirt, before pausing for a £1.50 beer in the sunshine.

Currently, in December, flights are available from UK cities including Liverpool, London and Bournemouth to Tenerife for just £15.

3. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

December temperature highs: 25C

While Tenerife is the most popular of the Canary Islands, attracting seven million holidaymakers each year, Gran Canaria is not far behind, drawing a remarkable four million sunseekers to its shores. Its southern coastline enjoys sunshine throughout the year.

The stunning sand dunes of Maspalomas and the picturesque harbour at Puerto de Mogán are essential visits. Journey inland to discover dramatic volcanic terrain and delightful villages such as Tejeda.

On a discussion thread regarding how warm Gran Canaria really is – and whether it’s too chilly to swim during the winter – one Brit wrote: “I’d never been abroad before and went to GC in March this year. It was 23-24 during the day. The sea was lovely and warm and I learnt to swim in it (I’m 52). I found the evening temperatures a bit cool but nothing a thin jumper wouldn’t sort out. I have booked again for March this year.”

Flights are available from cities including Edinburgh, Nottingham and Birmingham to Gran Canaria in December starting from just £13.

December temperature highs: 19C

Whilst the Balearics’ Mediterranean location and position further north than the Canaries means slightly cooler conditions, the gorgeous island of Majorca has been crowned Spain’s top winter sun spot this year – and it’s easy to see why.

The island enjoys pleasantly mild temperatures of approximately 23C well into October. Even throughout November and December, the island benefits from bright weather alongside temperatures ranging between 16-19C.

Whilst it might be too cool for an ocean dip, conditions remain perfect for a stroll along the seafront or dining outdoors – though an extra layer or two might be advisable. A visit to Playa de Muro Beach is a must; it’s been hailed as one of Europe’s most stunning beaches.

There are plenty of scenic walks nearby if you fancy a leisurely stroll, and it’s just a hop, skip and a jump away from the S’Albufera Natural Park. For cycling enthusiasts, the island’s hills and varied terrain are often a hit, and during the autumn/winter months, you won’t be battling hordes of tourists, which can make for a much more chilled morning’s adventure.

There are December flights from Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester airports to Majorca starting at £15.

December temperature highs: 17C

Before anyone pens a complaint, I should clarify that I’m well aware that Gibraltar is not in Spain. It is a British Overseas Territory that happens to be nestled on Spain’s southern coast. The area is dominated by the Rock of Gibraltar, a towering 426m-high limestone ridge, and is home to 39,000 residents.

Affectionately known as Gib by the locals, the peninsula is situated at the entrance to the Mediterranean, on the southernmost tip of Spain. Its strategic position has shaped its complex and intriguing history, through the changing hands of multiple nations – it was handed over to Britain in 1713 – and as a crucial Second World War Allied stronghold.

The Mirror’s Samantha Mallac recently paid a visit to Gib and was taken aback by what awaited her. “Was Gibraltar what I expected? The answer, unequivocally, is certainly not. Despite its small size, it delivers some memories,” she penned.

Flights in December from Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester are on offer starting from just £18.

Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy has criticised the Spanish left-wing government for allegedly attracting rich travellers to the country, saying it goes against its ‘socialist utopia’

An airline chief has slammed Spain’s government, accusing it of courting hypocrisy by supposedly targeting wealthy tourists to visit the country.

Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy believes this contradicts the nation’s ‘socialist utopia’ principles. Speaking at the Association of British Travel Agents’ annual conference – taking place on the Spanish island of Mallorca – he branded tourism officials’ desire for affluent holidaymakers as “absolutely disgraceful”.

Mr Heapy addressed the government’s campaign “Think you know Spain? Think again”, which the airline boss has argued is calling for a different, richer type of tourist to visit the country.

“When you boil down what they’ve said, ‘we want a different type of customer’. They basically want rich people, which doesn’t fit given Spain is supposed to be a socialist utopia,” the Jet2 boss said.

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“I don’t think it’s very fair. I don’t think holidays should be something for the rich and privileged. I think holidays should be something for everyone. And if a prerequisite to going on holidays is being rich, I think that’s absolutely disgraceful.”, reports the Express.

The promotional material comes after widespread demonstrations against tourism across Spain, with protesters telling visitors to “go home” and even dousing them with water pistols. Earlier this year, Mr Heapy revealed Jet2 “had people ringing the call centre and going into travel agents, asking questions like ‘is Spain safe’, ‘are we still welcome in the resort’.”

He noted this is “becoming a big issue, unfortunately, and perception becomes truth.”

The Spanish government is using adverts to encourage tourists to enjoy slower, more sustainable holidays, showcasing attractions such as wineries, luxury medieval castle hotels, surf camps, truffle tasting, and “gastronomic experiences with seasonal produce”.

The campaign’s website states: “There is another way to travel. Calmer, more aware, more personal. In Spain you will want to stop in every village and landscape to discover its culture and connect with the environment.”

Mr Heapy admitted that several of Spain’s top tourist hotspots are grappling with issues stemming from poor tourism management. He largely blamed this on unregulated short-term rentals, especially through platforms like Airbnb.

He proposed that hosts operating without the correct licences or tax registration should face hefty fines – up to €250,000 (around £217,000) – and potential prison time if fines remain unpaid. Jet2, Britain’s biggest package-holiday airline, transported nearly 18 million passengers last year, according to The Telegraph.

In recent years, more destinations and their tourism boards have spoken of wanting ‘high-value tourists’. The term has emerged in response to mass tourism and the problems that it can cause for local populations.

High volumes of holidaymakers on cheap package holidays can put strain on public services and push up house prices, while not adding as much to the local economy as some would like.

Shifting a destination’s tourism model from one that attracts mass-market visitors to a smaller group of richer travellers is not easy, however, as perceptions of a place tend to stick, and facilities take time and money to improve.

The Spanish Tourism Board declined to comment.

I spent my childhood in Spain, and while many UK travellers opt for the likes of Majorca and Tenerife, there’s one northern town that’s a true hidden gem.

I spent a large chunk of my childhood and teenage years in Spain, having moved from Argentina when I was just six. Marbella was the first Spanish city I called home – and it was absolutely delightful. It offered warm weather, stunning beaches, and plenty of options for outdoor play with other children.

Relocating from Marbella to the Mediterranean town of Denia during my teenage years might not seem like a significant shift, as both places offer similar conditions. However, sandwiched between these two coastal locations, I spent a few years, specifically from age eight to 12, in the pristine northern town of Oviedo.

Northern Spain is quite distinct from the southern holiday hotspots or the island resorts of Mallorca and Tenerife. For starters, the north is much cooler, greener and culturally more reserved, with locals still deeply rooted in their traditions. That’s why Oviedo, while less famous than most regional capitals, possesses such an enchanting allure.

Oviedo’s public spaces are well-kept, virtually free of litter and brimming with unexpected historical landmarks. One such sight is the imposing Cathedral of San Salvador, which is considered one of Spain’s most significant Christian pilgrimage sites, even predating Santiago de Compostela’s rise to prominence.

It’s one of the traditional stops for pilgrims taking the Camino Primitivo, the oldest known route of the Camino de Santiago.

Due to its characteristically wet climate, Oviedo boasts lush greenery throughout, featuring numerous parks and the cherished central Campo de San Francisco, where locals love to wander leisurely and meet for coffee.

Asturias’ capital also represents a culinary paradise, offering substantial fare in warm, inviting establishments perfect for recuperating after adventures like ascending nearby Monte Naranco to discover pre-Romanesque structures whilst gazing over the city, or exploring the Las Ubiñas-La Mesa natural reserve.

The region’s most celebrated dish, Fabada, consists of a substantial bean casserole (fabes) accompanied by meat, sausage and morcilla.

Though served in remarkably abundant, satisfying portions, diners frequently follow it with cachopo, an enormous breaded veal creation stuffed with cheese and ham.

Tierra Astur restaurant has earned recognition over many years for delivering exceptional cachopo.

Whilst southern Spain attracts European visitors as a renowned beer hotspot, Asturias revolves around cider traditions.

Oviedo’s Calle Gascona earns recognition as the “Boulevard of Cider” where unpretentious, tavern-style sidrerías provide genuine sidra (cider), served from an elevated position using the traditional “escanciado” technique.

Establishments Casa Fermín, Casa Lobato and Del Arco rank amongst the city’s finest dining venues for experiencing local specialities, whilst NM by Nacho Manzano specialises in sophisticated, contemporary Asturian gastronomy with meticulous craftsmanship. Asturias, a farming region, is renowned for its top-notch homegrown produce, including over 40 varieties of cheese (most notably Cabrales, a potent blue-veined type with DOP status), high-quality beef reared on mountain pastures, and artisan preserves made from local apples, pears and wild berries.

Local bakeries and desserts provide another reason to wander the old town – Asturian treats may be rustic in appearance but they’re extraordinary in taste. The carbayón, a rich almond-filled puff pastry glazed with syrup, typically found at Camilo de Blas in Oviedo, is the most iconic.

Another local favourite is the moscovita, a delicate almond biscuit coated in chocolate, originally from the historic Rialto bakery. Restaurants often serve rich, homemade options such as a local, creamier version of rice pudding, casadielles (deep-fried pastry rolls filled with a mixture of walnuts, sugar, and aniseed), and frixuelos, a crêpes-style dish typically filled with sugar, jam, or cream and rolled up.

The Old Town (Casco Histórico) is ideal for a walking holiday, with the Cathedral and Calle Uría offering the city’s hustle and bustle. For quieter stays, consider places slightly off Calle Mon or Postigo Bajo.

At the beginning of September, Ryanair confirmed the closure of the Santiago base and the cancellation of all flights to Vigo and Tenerife North. Simultaneously, it was announced that the airline will maintain the closure of its Valladolid and Jerez bases and decrease capacity in Asturias, Santander, Zaragoza, and the Canary Islands this winter

Ryanair has been accused of ‘lying’ about the reason why it cut flights to Spain.

In late August, the budget airline revealed plans to drastically reduce its capacity on routes to and from Spain, eliminating a million seats in the forthcoming winter season. The company has stated that these extensive cuts are a reaction to Spain’s airport operator Aena’s announcement of a 6.5% increase in passenger fees by 2026.

Now Spain’s airport operator has accused Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary of using it as a scapegoat to avoid incurring passengers’ wrath for cancelling the routes and cutting back flights.

Ryanair has hit back against the allegations, arguing that it chooses locations based on where is cheaper. It also urged Aena to call their bluff by lowering airport fees. A Ryanair spokesperson said: “If we are lying as Lucena claims, then why doesn’t he call our bluff and cut Aena’s high fees at Spain’s empty regional airports? Ryanair always goes where costs are lower and will happily go back to regional Spain when they stop charging Madrid/Barcelona prices. Until then it’s adiós Aena!”

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In an interview with the Financial Times, Maurici Lucena, chair and chief executive of Aena, accused the budget airline boss of “lying continuously”.

“What really bothers me is that they’re not telling the truth. It has nothing to do with Aena’s fees. The reason they lie is that they don’t want to face the political and reputational cost of abandoning some regional airports, and in some cases even causing job losses when they shut down a base. That’s the real underlying issue,” Mr Lucena told the publication.

The airport boss argued that Aena’s proposed 6.5% fee increase averages out at €0.68 per passenger. He assured members of the public that Aena would not be closing any of its smaller regional airports, particularly as it is required by law to keep them operating.

At the beginning of September, Ryanair confirmed the closure of the Santiago base and the cancellation of all flights to Vigo and Tenerife North. Simultaneously, it was announced that the airline will maintain the closure of its Valladolid and Jerez bases and decrease capacity in Asturias, Santander, Zaragoza, and the Canary Islands this winter.

The cuts are part of Ryanair’s plan to reduce its capacity by 41% in the Spanish regions and by 10% in the Canary Islands this winter. Eddie Wilson, CEO of Ryanair, warned that this would lead to “a loss of investment, connectivity, tourism, and employment in regional Spain, as many routes will be economically unviable.”

All flights to Vigo will stop in January next year, and to Tenerife North from the start of the Winter 2025 season. Capacity to Zaragoza will be slashed by 45%, Santander by 38%, Asturias 16% and Vitoria by 2%. When culling is over, Ryanair will have scrapped 36 routes to and from Spain.

At the same time, Ryanair is planning to introduce two million more seats on routes to Italy, Morocco, Croatia and Albania.

This is not the first time that Mr O’Leary has aimed barbed words at those working in the aviation sector. The airline has cancelled flights in France following a dispute over fees, while Mr O’Leary has repeatedly called for the UK’s air traffic control chief to be sacked.

Barcelona is a popular city in Spain that attracts millions of tourists year-on-year and it is famous for its art and grand architecture, but a visitor shared one thing not everyone knows about it

There are several countries in Europe that attract large amounts of tourists, including Spain, France and Italy. Many people from the UK enjoy going to Spain in particular as it is not far from Britain but offers beautiful beaches, warmer and sunnier weather, has a vibrant culture and is seen as relatively affordable to explore.

Spain consistently ranks as the top holiday destination for Brits who often visit coastal and island sites, like Majorca, Ibiza and Benidorm. A popular city in Spain for holidaymakers is Barcelona, the capital of the country’s Catalonia region. According to Statista, Barcelona’s hotels welcomed nearly 7.9 million overnight tourists in 2024.

The tourist hotspot is known for its art and architecture but locals have been protesting against the issue of overtourism in the city, which saw some tourists being sprayed by water guns.

One visitor who recently travelled to Barcelona shared one thing international visitors might not expect.

He posted a video on TikTok at the end of August showing the wet weather with puddles on the ground of a largely empty street and a small group of people shielding themselves from the rain with umbrellas.

Overlaying the clip, he sarcastically wrote: “Okay Barcelona we get it, you don’t want tourists. Message received loud and clear.”

Barcelona experiences short-lived rain showers in August and September but average temperatures this month reach 26°C during the day so it’s still warm with plenty of sunshine, as per TUI.

The caption of the tourist’s TikTok post caption reads: “The teabags I packed turned into tea in my bag.”

The clip has garnered 247,300 views, 23,800 likes and almost 150 comments, at the time of writing.

A Spain local commented: “As a Catalan we really wanted the rain so sorry but we really needed it, the heat was HORRENDOUS.”

Another agreed: “In fact, the locals were waiting for this good weather after 15 days of boiling air. Enjoy it with us.”

A third TikTok user said: “Barcelona better behave in September.” A tourist who visited Barcelona shared: “I was there, had to hide in the Burger King until it stopped raining.”

A second chimed in: “It passed very quickly and honestly makes the air much more bearable! Don’t think I could handle 40C, 30 is hot enough!”

The TikTok user who posted the clip revealed in the comments section that the rain “only lasted 30 ish minutes and it’s been sunny ever since.”

A different user, unbothered by wet weather, remarked: “A great place to visit. I love it . What’s the rain got to do with it?”

Someone else highlighted: “Better that than the heat that comes later.” A number of commenters were surprised to see rain in the Spanish city at this time of year, while others knew it is normal for there to be some rainfall.

New research suggests that British travellers are forgoing their beloved summer hotspots like Greece and Spain in favour of more far-flung destinations like Thailand

According to new research, some key non-European destinations have enticed Brits away from their typical hotspots this summer.

While Italy, Spain and Greece continue to deal with the repercussions of over-tourism, British travellers are casting their holiday sight further abroad. Virgin Media O2 data suggests that visitors to Spain have dropped by about 9% year-on-year, with anti-tourism protests potentially giving British holidaymakers pause.

Visits to Greece and Portugal are also down by 7% and 5% respectively, the data suggests. Destinations like Thailand, Canada and the US are on British travel radars this year.

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Visits to France were even eclipsed by those of the US this summer, which brought in 17% of British travellers compared to France’s 14%. Canada now accounts for 9% of trips from the UK and the United Arab Emirates has enjoyed 8% of the British tourist allocation.

Thailand and Australia both earned 5% of visitors, which may have to do with The White Lotus effect. In fact, the TV series drove so much tourism to Thailand that it threatened to bury one of the paradise islands.

The exceptionally hot weather in the UK this summer could have also influenced why Brits didn’t feel the need to storm their sunny EU holiday destinations.

When it comes to last-minute getaways however, the data shows that convenience is still a top priority for British holidaymakers. Resorts that are a short-haul flight away still saw the biggest influx of travellers. Almost 38% of Brits will take late breaks to Spain while Greece will see 25% and Italy 23%.

Christian Hindennach, chief commercial officer at Virgin Media O2 said of the latest research: “As Brits explore new holiday spots beyond Europe, we’re proud to keep them connected wherever they may roam.

He continues: “From last-minute trips to far-flung adventures, we’re committed to keeping our customers connected without the worry of hidden fees, so they can focus on enjoying their time away.”

That said, months of active overtourism demonstrations across Spain in particular has been bad news for tourism revenue in some parts of the country.

A once busy Spanish city is now “dead” as Brits have reportedly abandoned the destination for other holiday spots.. Footage has surfaced online showing the area’s completely deserted streets.

Laura, who goes by lauratravelvlogs on TikTok, has been chronicling some stark changes in Barcelona this year, having resided there herself for over two years. She noted a significant drop in visitor numbers and, for months, she’s been posting videos of Spain’s vacant streets, silent roads and empty beaches to illustrate the drastic shift in the country’s tourism landscape.

In a recent video featuring eerily quiet roads, Laura questioned: “Sorry, no one can argue that these roads leading up to the beach were not packed in 2023?”

Electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, herbal products, shisha pipes and devices used to heat tobacco and other substances would be treated the same as conventional cigarettes under the Spanish govenrment’s new proposals

Smoking and vaping could soon be banned in restaurant terraces and on beaches in Spain.

The Spanish government has approved a draft tobacco law that would ban locals and holidaymakers alike from having a puff on bar and restaurant terraces, as well as on beaches. The law would also prohibit minors from using vapes and related products, and end the sale of single-use electronic cigarettes.

The legislation was signed off by the cabinet on Tuesday morning. The bill still needs to be approved by parliament and could be amended. There is no indication yet of when these measures might come in.

Electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, herbal products, shisha pipes and devices used to heat tobacco and other substances would be treated the same as conventional cigarettes.

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Their use would all be banned in enclosed public spaces, as well as in outdoor areas such as bar terraces, stadiums, sports centres, children’s play areas, bus stops and educational facilities.

The health minister, Mónica García Gómez, said the draft law was intended to put Spain “back at the forefront of the fight against tobacco”. Smoking inside bars and restaurants in Spain was banned back in 2010, but since then, progress has been slow.

According to the Global Action to End Smoking report, 24.9% of the population used tobacco in some way in 2022, with higher rates of (27.5%) among men. In contrast, 11% of Brits smoke.

Ms Gómez added: “We know that tobacco claims the lives of 140 people a day in our country, which is 50,000 people a year. I also want to stress that 30% of cancer tumours are linked to the factors that come from tobacco use … We know that the reality has changed when it comes to tobacco and that there are new devices, such as vapes and tobacco-heating devices and nicotine pouches – and this law, for the first time, will regulate all these tobacco-related products, and it will regulate them in a clear and forceful way based on the scientific evidence.”

Holidaymakers looking to pick up some cheap cigarettes are in luck. There is no plan to hike prices in a country where a pack of 20 cigarettes costs less than €6 (£5.20).

Spain’s approach mirrors recent action taken by France in July. It is now illegal to smoke in outdoor places, including beaches, parks, public gardens, outside schools, bus stops and sports venues in France. The legislation, however, excludes café and bar terraces and electronic cigarettes from its restrictions.

Absent from Spain’s cabinet-approved proposal are any requirements for plain packaging on tobacco products. This is a measure that has been adopted by 25 nations, including the UK, according to World Health Organisation data.

Important recommendation for parents who are planning to take young children on a trip to Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura have been issued by one mum

A British mum has shared important crucial guidance for all parents with young children planning a getaway to one of a number of popular Spanish islands. Mother-of-one Melissa O’Donnell praised a firm that assisted her baby during a recent family break to Gran Canaria.

“If you are taking a baby abroad to one of these locations – Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura – you need to listen to this,” she began in a TikTok video. Confirming that the firm in question played no part in creating her clip, Melissa stated: “I’m doing this off my own back – I just want people to know how helpful it is.” She went on, revealing that Travel 4 Baby provides parents with the chance to rent “anything you could possibly need” for your baby whilst you are away.

“Cots, bath seats, sterilising machines, buggies, car seats – even down to potties – they have everything you’d want to put it in your suitcase but aren’t able to bring,” Melissa raved. “They are priced really fairly too.”

To highlight her point, she revealed she paid €20 [£17.34] for a snooze shade “for as long as we wanted it”. Melissa added: “They drop the item off at the hotel wherever you are staying and come and pick it up the day that you leave.”

Scores of others rushed to commend Travel 4 Baby as well, sharing their own holiday experiences with the firm.

“We used them when we went to Lanzarote!” one TikTok user wrote. “They have no idea how much it helped us!”

A second satisfied customer shared: “We used them for Lanzarote when baby was only 12 weeks old. When we arrived at hotel the steriliser, bottle, formula and water were all there when we arrived at check in. Definitely recommend them.”

A third added: “We hired so much from them in Tenerife last month. Made life so much easier and they were brilliant to deal with. Everything waiting for us at the hotel.”

Whilst a fourth person praised: “They are fab. We used them back in 2022 for our little one’s first holiday. Walker (so he can mooch about tiled rooms safely) and travel cot. But they have so much more – even bottle safe water – fab company.”

Travel 4 Baby also caters for those holidaying to several destinations across Spain and Portugal including major cities, and plans to extend its services to further hotspots including Benidorm in the near future.

The company offers further advice online, listing its top tips for a stress free trip with baby – which are:

• On the plane, babies under two years old can sit on your knee or some airlines let you book and pay for an extra seat for more space and comfort
• Change your babies nappy or take them to the toilet just before you board the aircraft
• Try keep them awake at the airport so they will sleep on the plane (fingers crossed!)
• Feed them when you get on the plane rather than before. The combination of feeding and the rocking and noise of the plane, will often send your baby to sleep.
• Take extra formula, snacks, nappies etc just in case of a delay.
• Always remember, if you don’t want to be traveling with too much luggage and baby items, check with us before you travel as most baby items can be hired and delivered to you in resort. Travel 4 baby has everything you will need and the less luggage you have to bring the better.

Ibiza is already famous for its incredible beaches and parties but there’s one part of the island where you can enjoy the views without having to deal with the crowds

Ibiza is a firm favourite with Brits who flock to the Balearic Islands to make the most of the hot weather, beautiful beaches and epic party scene.

However the island’s popularity does mean that during the summer months it can get crowded, as masses of tourists descend on its picture-perfect shores. The good news is that there are quieter parts to the island, and in some cases they can be a little bit trickier to reach, meaning you can easily escape the masses (or just get a day away from the constant hustle and bustle).

For example, intrepid explorers have been known to head to little-known Cala d’en Serra, a beautiful cove tucked away amongst dense greenery. Although it’s not a huge tourist destination, there are some facilities on offer such as sunbeds and a small snack bar if you want some refreshments, as well as an abandoned hotel that’s become a hub for graffiti and street art. Take note that it is a nudist-friendly beach though!

READ MORE: Lesser-known Greek island has 27C weather in September and beautiful beachesREAD MORE: Underrated UK seaside town has picturesque sandy beaches and no crowds

Meanwhile Playa Galera is renowned for offering up some of the island’s most beautiful sunset views, but because it doesn’t boast the likes of a bustling promenade and plenty of bars, it’s not necessarily a go-to for holidaymakers during the summer months. If you aren’t tied to school holiday dates, you may want to consider a trip in September and October when the island still boasts temperatures of around 23C-27C, and plenty of sunshine too.

For hikers, Cala Llentrisca has always been popular destination as it’s tucked away amidst some impressive cliffs, and you’ll need some sturdy shoes for the trail that leads to the thin strip of beach. Although it’s known to locals, it tends to be overlooked by holidaymakers as it’s the type of beach for adventurers rather than sun-seekers who also want a cocktail while they bask in the balmy weather.

READ MORE: Lesser-known national park has turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and no crowds

One way to reach these hidden coves is by boat. In fact, boat rental platform SamBoat has recorded a 75% increase in bookings via its UK site in the last year, as an increasing number of Brits opt for day trips across Europe.

The insiders have flagged Ibiza as one of the destinations where you can find plenty of hidden gems away from the crowds too. They explained: “Beyond the party scene lies an Ibiza few tourists ever see, sailors are heading out to the island’s lesser-known spots such as Cala Llentrisca, Atlantis, and Cala d’en Serra, all best reached by water. Renting a small motorboat for the day lets you hop from one secret cove to another, anchoring up for beach picnics or snorkelling in gin-clear waters. No skipper needed, just a sense of adventure and some ice-cold drinks.”

Ibiza isn’t the only popular island where you can find quieter, lesser-known spots away from the hordes of visitors. Despite this summer seeing queues of tourists at the prettiest viewpoints, Santorini is another hotspot where you can actually find plenty of peaceful locations from which you can take in those postcard-worthy sunset views, or enjoy the spots where you’ll find locals rather than tourists.

Do you have a holiday story you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

Most people know the larger Canary Islands such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura but there’s one island that’s well worth adding on your radar

The Canary Islands have been firm favourites with Brits for years when it comes to holidays full of sun, sea and sand. The larger islands like Tenerife and Lanzarote are famed for their bustling resorts and beautiful beaches, but that does mean they often have large crowds of tourists in peak seasons.

However, there’s one lesser-known Canary Island that not only boasts breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters, but as it’s a little more remote it has almost no tourists.

El Hierro is so breathtaking that the entire island has been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve thanks to the lush forests, volcanic landscapes, pine trees and windswept cliffs that make up the scenery. It’s a popular spot with divers who are drawn to its crystalline waters full of a wide array of marine life, not to mention the waters are so clear that on a clear day you can see up to 30 metres deep. According to the Canaries’ tourism officials, it’s “one of the best places on the planet for scuba diving”.

READ MORE: One of UK’s ‘best wild swimming spots’ has beautiful waterfalls and clear watersREAD MORE: Lesser-known national park has turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and no crowds

It’s worth noting that El Hierro doesn’t have many beaches, but wild swimming fans can get their fill thanks to the various natural pools with their postcard-worthy blue waters. Charco Azul, aptly nicknamed the ‘blue pond’ never fails to wow visitors with its turquoise waters, tucked away at the base of a volcanic cliff.

The island’s small size means that it can be easily be explored on a hike, with trails taking you along the best of the scenery from pine forests to the coast. One of the highlights is the Camino de Jinama, an ancient route that used to serve the local inhabitants. It’s only about three kilometres long but is well worth the stroll (although there are a few steep parts), if only for the incredible views it offers of El Hierro.

You won’t find a plethora of clubs, bars and hotels here; instead, the vibe is more around eco-hotels and boutique offerings, with a real push for sustainability. There are a handful of hotels and stays, but the good news is that they cater to a wide array of budgets. If you want to explore but also want a bit of that classic beach and party atmosphere associated with the Canaries, there are plenty of flights from Tenerife and Gran Canaria if you want to make it part of a wider itinerary.

It’s definitely a spot for intrepid explorers who prefer to go off the beaten track, whether that’s diving in La Restinga Marine Reserve or spending a night stargazing from the beautiful Roque de los Muchachos Observatory.

You won’t be jostling with other tourists to make the most of the beautiful spots either. According to a study from BookRetreats, El Hierro is one of Europe’s least crowded islands with just 610 overnight stays per km²; a stark contrast to Tenerife’s 16,873.

You can find out more about El Hierro on hellocanaryislands.com.

Do you have a holiday story you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

Brits heading on Ibiza holidays to enjoy the island’s world-famous clubs, bars and boat parties are being warned of a simple scam that’s leaving them out of pocket

Brits heading to Ibiza this summer to make the most of its epic boat parties are being warned of a common scam that could leave them out of pocket, staring at an empty dock.

Ibiza Town is famous for its epic nightlife from the packed clubs and bars to boat parties where revellers can soak up the views and sunshine while listening to live music and DJ sets. However, one insider has warned that Brits planning Spain holidays should stay vigilant when trying to make the most of the atmosphere.

James Smith, founder of Learn Spanish with James, has spent years living on the White Isle and witnessed countless tourists fall victim to elaborate cons. His warnings come after Spanish islands fear Brits won’t return as tourists are dealt another blow.

Have you been caught out by one of these Ibiza scams? Email us at [email protected].

READ MORE: Travel experts warn Brits to stay vigilant amidst rise of ‘fake visa websites’READ MORE: Brit abroad in Benidorm warns tourists to ‘never rent car’ during August

“Living in Ibiza opened my eyes to how sophisticated these scams have become.” He said. “The operators know exactly what buttons to push with British tourists, so they’ll promise VIP treatment, exclusive access, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But there are always telltale signs if you know what to look for.”

He adds that boat party scams “have exploded in recent years”. Fraudsters set up websites and social media pages to promote incredible events complete with celebrity DJs, unlimited drinks and VIP packages. Only, these events are completely made up; when people turn up to the docks or venues, there’s nothing there.

James warned: “These scammers are getting smarter with their online presence. They’ll steal photos from legitimate boat parties and create convincing websites. But when you turn up at the supposed departure point, there’s no boat – and no refund.”

He urged Brits to keep an eye out for red flags such as vague meeting locations, requests for full payment upfront via bank transfer, and reluctance to provide official booking confirmations or company registration details.

It’s also worth noting that in recent years, Ibiza officials have introduced strict rules around boat parties in a bid to crackdown on unruly tourists. This includes a ban on party boats sailing within one nautical mile of a number of towns on the island, with captains also prevented from picking up and disembarking passengers in the regions.

Other common scams according to James include approaching tourists with ‘discounted’ tickets to clubs such as Pacha or Amnesia.

“They’ll show you what looks like a genuine ticket and claim they can’t use it,” he explained. “The story is always the same: they’re leaving the island early, their friend cancelled, or they double-booked. But these tickets are either completely fake or already used.”

If they won’t let you check the ticket or refuse to provide contact details, be wary. They may also use high pressure tactics such as telling you someone else is interested.

Meanwhile if you’re promised unlimited drinks and queue skips, proceed with caution, especially if you’re being approached in the street. “The legitimate venues don’t work this way,” James pointed out. “Real clubs sell their own packages through official channels. These street sellers are either selling fake vouchers or massively overcharging for basic entry.”

You can find out more on learnspanishwithjames.com.

Spain has been hit by a heatwave with the mercury hitting 32C in Seville this week and highs of 35C in Madrid and 31C in Barcelona. The UK has also been issued a yellow heat health warning

Holidaymakers heading to Spain have been urged to take “extreme precautions” as the country swelters under blistering heat that will leave Brits reeling. Temperatures have soared to 32C in Seville this week, with Madrid hitting highs of 35C and Barcelona reaching 31C.

Summer in Spain always sounds like a great idea, but with the temperatures reaching the 35C mark, holidaymakers wishing to spend a couple of days in the hot peninsula might want to be careful.

Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), equivalent to Britain’s Met Office, warned: “The danger of wildfires continues at very high or extreme levels in most of Spain, despite the likelihood of showers in many areas. We are at the most critical moment of the season. Take extreme precautions.” In other travel news, it comes after a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.

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The country has issued a rare “red” emergency alert with the “maximum” threat facing UK tourists, reports Birmingham Live.

AEMET posted on X: “11/08 11:36 Active warnings today and tomorrow in Spain for maximum temperatures, storms, rain, and suspended dust. Maximum warning level: red. This, combined with the high level of sunshine typical of summer, is causing temperatures to be higher than usual for this time of year, resulting in a heat wave.”

“[Today, Monday] temperatures are expected to rise further in the Ebro basin, the southern and eastern thirds of the Iberian Peninsula, and the eastern Cantabrian Sea. Temperatures will begin to fall in the northwest, most noticeably in Galicia.”

It continued: “Temperatures will therefore continue to reach 37-39C across the interior of the Iberian Peninsula, also extending to the Júcar and Segura regions and the interior of the Basque Country, where temperatures could even exceed 40C locally.”

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“In the lower Guadalquivir, highs could reach over 42C, and although with low probability, this threshold could also be exceeded in the Ebro Valley and the northeastern depressions, where this day is expected to be the hottest of the episode.”

Meanwhile, a yellow heat health warning has been issued for the UK as most areas have seen the mercury soar past 30C. This is the fourth summer heatwave, with England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland all experiencing blistering temperatures.

A number of water companies were compelled to impose hosepipe bans for activities such as watering gardens, washing cars and filling paddling pools.

People have been left in stitches of laughter after hearing about a woman’s story while holidaying in Ibiza – she thought she had hit the jackpot and met Wayne Lineker but the truth left her red-faced

A young woman on a girls’ holiday with her mate was absolutely buzzing after she believed she’d encountered her “hero”, Wayne Lineker. Gary Lineker ‘s brother can frequently be found chatting to punters at his cherished party destination, Ocean Beach in Ibiza – with countless visitors clamouring for snaps with his during their visit.

The Spanish beach club has enjoyed tremendous success since launching 13 years ago, and remains essential for Brits visiting the party isle. Celebrities including Ed Sheeran, Jason Derulo, Jack Grealish and Conor McGregor have been photographed at the San Antonio venue. One woman was thrilled after meeting who she believed was Wayne Lineker, who has remained single for seven years.

She became even more excited when he reportedly offered to buy her a drink. The party-goer was holidaying with a friend she’s called Faye, and the duo were staying at Ibiza Rocks. One day while at the poolside party hotel, the two women were approached by some “absolute sorts” they nicknamed “Ibiza Final Bosses”. The blokes invited them to Ocean Beach for the day, which they accepted.

She and her mate headed to the beach club with the group and claims she was “having the time of her life” with them, until something caught her attention. She revealed in a frank TikTok video : “Out the corner of my eye I could see Wayne Lineker. I know exactly who Wayne Lineker is, I know he is into brunettes.”

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She continued: “My mate Faye doesn’t know who he is. He approaches and asks ‘do you want a drink’. I respond ‘I’ve got my own drinks but sure I’d love you to get me a drink’. So we end up spending time with Wayne Lineker and his companion, let’s call him Barry for the story.”

Lacy explained she and her friend departed from the initial group they’d joined at the beach club, hoping to spend their day with ‘Wayne’ and his mate. She observed they were having “a great time”.

The pair were invited to an afterparty at the location where the two men were staying. Lacy revealed: “I’m like absolutely, I’m thinking there’s going to a party, this is going to be lit, me and Wayne are going to be a thing, I’m literally going to come back to Torquay engaged. I manifested the whole thing.”

However, she began feeling doubtful when they climbed into a vehicle to reach the party. “I thought we were going to get into a Range Rover, it wasn’t quite that,” she revealed.

Lacy explained she hadn’t realised how intoxicated they were until that point. She described how they exited the car and entered a hotel, despite anticipating a large villa gathering.

“It is a disappointment to say the least,” she remarked.

Please note the follow video contains strong language.

She continued: “So we’re all sat in this twin room with Wayne, Barry, my mate Faye and me. They’re like ‘do you want a drink’, I’m like ‘yeah sure’. Anyway we do the whole formal thing of asking each other’s names.”

Lacy revealed she jokingly asked ‘Wayne’ what his name was, completely convinced it was him, and was stunned when he replied saying ‘Tim’.

She explained: “I said you’re so funny. He goes, ‘what do you mean’. I go ‘you’re name’s not Tim’, he goes ‘yeah my name’s Tim’. So it’s at that moment I realise what I’ve done. This ain’t Wayne Lineker.”

She continued: “I realised I have royally f***ed up. I have brought us to the back end of Ibiza where I have never even visited with this guy Tim – and now come to think of it, he doesn’t even look anything like Wayne Lineker. I am that lit, I’m stuck in this crazy hotel room with my mate.”

She feigned illness so she and her pal could make their getaway.

But matters got worse when they couldn’t find a taxi for more than an hour.

Lacy continued: “I am stuck in a hotel room with f***ing Barry, Wayne, Faye, and me drinking the worst f***ing prosecco while all the Ibiza final bosses are at a party.”

Wayne Lineker, who also runs Linekers bars and Bam-Bu-Ku, spotted the post and replied in the comments.

Wayne quipped: “Who’s Barry? Must be Dean Gaffney.”

Lacy fired back: “No way has Wayne entered the chat. Deffo not as hot as Dean Gaffney, more like Barry from Eastenders. Don’t worry Wayne I would recognise you in a crowded room any day of the week…it was an off brand night.”

The video was a hit with viewers, with one quipping: “What in the Jet 2 Holidays is going on here.”

Another chimed in with: “Wayne Lineker from Temu,”. A third couldn’t contain their laughter, commenting: “I am crying,” while another person penned: “I have never laughed so much at 7am on a Sunday morning.”

Another fan added: “Haha brilliant. Knew that was coming. Sounds like something I’d do. At least you have a great story to tell.”

One viewer shared a personal anecdote, stating: “Wayne Lineker tried chatting me up in his bar in Tenerife 35 years ago! He’s spent his life trying to pull women. I think you can do better.”

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, one travel influencer has shared a must-see attraction in the country that looks like it belongs in a fairytale – and it’s located just 20 minutes from Malaga

With destinations like Benidorm, Mallorca and the Canary Islands, Spain continues to be amongst the top holiday spots for Brits seeking sunshine, as the nation offers something for every traveller. In 2023, Brits made over 17.8 million visits to Spain, making it the most popular holiday spots that year.

Whether you’re after a peaceful seaside break or somewhere to party until dawn every evening, this varied country boasts destinations to match all preferences. Yet what numerous holidaymakers frequently overlook is discovering the nation’s more obscure cities that are equally stunning as the well-known attractions. However, one travel enthusiast Kristina Cors, who regularly uses social media to reveal her travel tips, has now unveiled a ‘secret treasure’ in Spain that’s located 20 minutes from Malaga and looks to be straight from a fairytale.

Posting on TikTok, where she boasts more than 751,300 followers, she highlighted one destination she believed every tourist in Spain should experience.

“When people go to Malaga, Spain and miss places like this 20 minutes away,” she wrote on top of the video.

She proceeded to show footage from her trip to Colomares Castle, situated in the town of Benalmádena in southern Spain. Whilst the fortress appears ancient, it was constructed between 1987 to 1994, and was devoted to the life and expeditions of Christopher Columbus.

Spanning 1,500 metres, it stands as the world’s largest tribute to the explorer, whilst also housing the globe’s tiniest church, occupying merely 1.96 square metres. In her video, Kristina provides glimpses of the castles from various angles, with blooming flowers enhancing the picturesque scenes.

She’s also seen strolling around the castle grounds and standing on a balcony, soaking in views straight out of a fairytale.

“Don’t go to Spain without visiting THIS incredible castle,” she write again in the video caption.

The comment section quickly filled up, with many likening the castle to ‘The Spring Court’ from Sarah J Maas’ fantasy book series A Court of Thorns and Roses.

“Wow,” one person simply commented, while another added: ” Been there once, really worth a visit!”.

“I live 5 minutes away from this castle and it’s stunning,” shared another viewer.

“Omg… I feel like I’m in a fairytale,” a fourth person exclaimed.

For those visiting Malaga who don’t fancy the 20-minute drive to Colomares Castle, one person suggested: “[Take] the train from Malaga to Arroyo de la Miel, then bus to the village of Benalmadena pueblo. Its a 2€ entrance fee, go early morning and explore the church grounds nearby too.”

However, not everyone was as enchanted, with one viewer branding it a ‘tourist trap’ due to its relatively recent construction in the 1980s.

Spain is by far the most popular country among UK travellers, with close to 18 million of us visiting in 2023 — far more than the 9.2 million who took a trip to second-place France

“The message we are receiving loud and clear from locals, especially in the islands and where we usually visit in Andalucia, is that we should stay away and are not welcome.”

That is how Mirror reader Allan Wilcox feels. He, like millions of Brits, is a regular visitor to Spain. In fact, Spain is by far the most popular country among UK travellers, with close to 18 million of us visiting in 2023 — far more than the 9.2 million who took a trip to second-place France.

While it would be absurd to suggest that the country’s love affair with Spain and its incredible culture, food and drink, spectacular weather, and general good vibes is over, there is undeniably a groundswell of frustration at a shift in attitude on the Iberian Peninsula. This comes amid a warning about the quality of breaks in Benidorm.

READ MORE: Spanish beach bars demand urgent action as they reveal cost of Brits staying awayREAD MORE: Spain holidays warning for Ryanair passengers as strikes set to hit 12 major airports

A lot of Brits have taken overtourism protests to heart, heeding the words of campaigners who say that mass tourism is killing the culture of destinations including the Canaries and the Balearic Islands; the strident messages slapped on walls by graffiti artists; and the actions of protesters who squirted holidaymakers in Barcelona.

Each week many of them email in to the Mirror’s travel desk ([email protected]) to share their views on trips to Spain and whether they’re still planning holidays in the country of 48 million.

Although it would be unfair to suggest that their views are completely typical of the UK population at large, particularly given the small sample size, a clear anti-Spanish holiday sentiment has emerged.

Sarah Meager has been particularly frustrated by new laws that prohibit smoking and vaping on terraces. She was dismayed to discover that the law covered private terraces when it comes to holiday villas and hotels.

“We discovered this in Lanzarote in February. You are not even allowed on the terrace of your own room. It is a ridiculous decision. Even if only one member of a group smokes it means you just can’t relax and enjoy yourself,” she explained.

Kevin Durkin is a committed Spain holidaymaker, having visited the country many times over a 30-year period. “Over the last few years, the anti-British sentiment has just grown. Some bar owners have put up signs telling the British to keep away and some hotel owners don’t want us either,” he said.

“I do not need Spain, they can keep their latest charges and hatred of the British. I will not be back, neither will my friends or family. Adios.”

Kevin, who speaks Spanish and moved to the country several years ago, admitted that most of the ire from locals was directed towards “the loud British element, usually fuelled by alcohol”, and that respectful tourists were unlikely to be bothered.

For Linda Munro, overcrowding was a major issue. She flew into Majorca, where the airport has been struggling with long queues this summer. “Border control is very, very stressful and must be putting families off,” she recalled.

“My husband and I got through the scanners, no problem. However, the rest of the family had to queue for an hour and a half. On the way back, it was worse, as people were worried they might miss their flights home. Our family just made it on time. They all said they wouldn’t be back abroad anytime soon.”

Allan Wilcox is a committed visitor of Spain and is “happy to spend our money supporting local businesses. These include restaurants, bars, hotels and shops.” Since overtourism protests began however, he has started to feel unwelcome.

“The message we are receiving loud and clear from locals, especially in the islands and where we usually visit in Andalucia, is that we should stay away and are not welcome. Since the local feelings appear so strong and tourists have to run the gauntlet of being shouted or spat at or have to endure intimidating protests, we are no longer happy to visit the country under these conditions,” Allan said.

“Consequently, we have decided to holiday elsewhere and have not visited Spain for the past couple of years.”

How do you feel about taking a holiday to Spain? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please email [email protected]

Travellers to Spain are warned to be vigilant when it comes to local beach regulations, as one common habit could see them blindsided with a fine ranging from €30 to €2,000

British holidaymakers are being warned that a common holiday habit could land them a major fine on Spanish beaches. Tourists could be hit with penalties up to €2,000 (£1,730) without realising they are breaking the law.

According to Vape Ease UK , tourists are coming up against strict beach regulations in popular Spanish hotspots, notably bans implemented by local councils. “People assume that if something’s legal in the country, it’s allowed everywhere — but that’s not the case,” said a spokesperson for Vape Ease UK.

“In Spain, what’s allowed in the street could get you fined on the beach.” So while e-cigarettes are legal to use and purchase across Spain, many beaches now enforce strict no-vaping rules under local public health policies. It comes after a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.

READ MORE: Tourists use torches in Spain’s sunbed wars in bid to reserve beach spotsREAD MORE: ‘Resorts are becoming ghost towns but it’s not protests that are to blame’

In most cases, these bans mirror anti-smoking regulations and treat vaping the same way. There are a few destinations now where vaping is banned on beaches.

In Barcelona, all city beaches have been smoke- and vape-free since 2022, with regular patrols and fines for non-compliance. Similarly various beaches across the Balearic Islands – specifically in Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca – are marked as smoke-free, and that includes e-cigarettes.

In Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, local councils have designated popular beaches as clean-air zones where vaping is banned, particularly in family areas.

Anyone vaping in prohibited areas risks an on-the-spot fine ranging from €30 to €2,000 (£26 to £1,730). The fine varies depending on the beach and whether or not the culprit is a first-time offender.

“It might feel like a small thing, but the consequences can be steep — especially in regions where authorities are cracking down during the summer season,” said the Vape Ease UK spokesperson.

The bans are part of a wider move by Spanish regional governments to create cleaner, safer public spaces, particularly in areas popular with families. Beaches are now being treated as shared health spaces, and that includes efforts to reduce secondhand vapour exposure and litter from vape cartridges.

Even if signs aren’t visible, any beach designated as smoke-free is almost certainly vape-free too — and tourists are expected to know the rules.

To avoid a hefty fine, travellers are encouraged to check regional restrictions before heading to the beach. Travellers should also look out for areas marked “No Fumar” (No Smoking) and utilise designated smoking areas if available.

Additionally, it’s important to know the rules around flying with vapes and e-cigarettes. Most airlines maintain an almost identical stance when it comes to the monitoring of vapes.

Nearly all major airlines don’t allow people to pack them in their hold luggage, for safety reasons. They are, however, allowed to be kept on a person in the cabin. But vaping on-board, like smoking, is strictly prohibited.

Swimming has been banned at certain beaches in theBasque region of the North of Spain after Portugese man o’ war stung swimmers, landing at least two people in hospital

Sunseekers have been banned from swimming on some beaches after a spate of Portuguese man o’ war stings.

On Thursday alone, seven people received nasty stings from the jellyfish-like animal, bringing the total number of people hurt by the creatures’ 10-metre-long tentacles in Bizkaia this past week to 14. Overall, 36 swimmers have been stung in the Basque Country in the past week.

The warm summer waters of the north of Spain and southwest of France are particularly welcoming to man-o’-war, which aren’t actually jellyfish but siphonophores, a group of animals that are closely related to the blobby critters. The man o’ war invasion comes after multiple giant “alien” jellyfish were found washed up on a British beach, causing concern among the country’s barefoot beachgoers.

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This week, several people required medical attention from Osakidetza’s Emergency Service at the scene of the incident, with two being sent to the hospital for treatment.

The Basque Government’s Department of Health explained that swimming is generally best avoided if jellyfish or Portuguese man o’ war are present, and touching them, even if they are on the sand, is not recommended. In the event of a sting, it is advisable to go quickly to the first-aid station, not scratch or rub the area, and clean the area with seawater, never fresh water.

Debris should be removed with tweezers, not with your hand unless wearing gloves. It is also advisable to apply cold or ice in a plastic bag to the area for five minutes.

A series of measures are currently in place at beaches in the area, ranging from the display of a yellow ‘jellyfish’ flag warning of their presence to a total ban on swimming, which is communicated via a red flag.

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Over in the UK, Joel Gabirel, an engineer and amateur photographer, shared pictures of the creatures after he stumbled across them while on holiday in Llandudno, Wales. The 31-year-old was out for an early morning walk along the coast when the tide was out, when he spotted what he calls “danger pancakes” blending into the sand.

“Jellyfish are already dead by the time you find one. They’re 95% water and dehydrate within minutes of washing ashore. They’re basically a digestive system with some tentacles. They don’t have a brain. But they can still sting. Seeing the jellyfish and their sizes really surprised me,” he said.

Joel said he didn’t even spot the larger ones at first because he thought they were rocks. The beachgoer seems to have stumbled across several different types of jellyfish. The species with straight lines running from its peak down to its edge appears to be a compass jellyfish.

“With brown markings reminiscent of a compass, this jellyfish is really quite distinctive. A summer visitor to our shores, the compass jellyfish feeds on small fish, crabs and even other jellyfish. They give a nasty sting, so if you spot them during a visit to the beach – look, but don’t touch! Once they have stung something, jellyfish often leave the tentacle behind and can continue to sting using it even when not connected to their body,” the Wildlife Trust explains.

A British tourist has slammed holidaymakers as “selfish” after capturing crowds of people sprinting to reserve sunbeds at a Spanish hotel – and she never got to use one herself

A British holidaymaker claims the sunbed scramble at her Spanish resort was so ruthless she didn’t manage to nab a lounger during her entire week-long break.

Adele Gough, 35, watched in amazement as fellow guests gathered by the pool gates at 9am before sprinting forward and flinging towels onto sunbeds. She watched the frantic scenes at the four-star GHT Oasis Park Hotel in Lloret de Mar, Spain, last week,

Adele, a hotel cleaner from Great Shefford, Berkshire, found the behaviour so “selfish” she refused to take part – and didn’t manage to secure a lounger throughout her entire getaway. She said: “At first I found it all pretty funny and typical of holiday-goers. It was entertaining to watch. But I do think it’s a bit selfish, as most of the sunbeds just sat there with a towel on them all day.” Adele is speaking out after a couple watched a hotel worker come close to being trampled.

Have you been swept up in a sunbed battle? We’d love to hear your war stories. Email [email protected]

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Adele, who was marking her birthday on the trip, said there weren’t any obvious regulations about bagging sunbeds, which she reckons sparked the frantic dash each morning.

Rather than waste her mornings queuing and sprinting, Adele opted to avoid the sunbed battle altogether. She said: “There weren’t any signs or rules posted anywhere around the hotel so all people could do was wait until the lifeguards opened the gates and then rush in. I decided not to bother so I didn’t end up using the sunbeds at all this holiday.”

Adele is not the only sunseeker who has found herself swept up in the sunbed wars.

Mark Hunter was shocked to see the chaos unfold from his hotel balcony. The 38-year-old watched on as determined holiday-goers raced for a lounger with their towels in tow as the pool gates opened.

One woman tripped over a chain barrier near the edge of the frame but quickly recovered, while others weaved past her in the dash. Mark was particularly surprised to see children pushed and jostled in the desperate rush for a prime pool spot. The madness unfolded after a tourist related their surprise at how empty the sunbed scene was at their resort in Spain.

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Mark, a corporate manager from Ireland, filmed the clip at Hotel Playas de Torrevieja at around 9.54am on Friday (2 Aug), while on holiday with his wife Tara and their son Jake.

“I was shocked to see grown adults reduced to scrambling for sun beds,” he told Luxury Travel Daily. “It is exactly the same every morning — there are grown adults pushing past children to get a sun bed by the pool.”

After watching the chaos unfold, Mark’s 12-year-old son asked if he could take part the next morning. He added: “My little boy did want to be involved in the chaos the next morning as he thought it looked fun. We did let him queue and he was the fastest to a sunbed!”

Mark shared the clip on TikTok, where it has left viewers stunned with over 2,400 likes so far.