Going on holiday is always an exciting feeling, as you pack your suitcase with essentials and head off to the airport four hours early to sit across from the gate just in case you miss your flight. You spend hours making sure that you’ve got everything you need, whether that’s a spare phone charger, sunscreen or your favourite flip-flops, but how many of us check the travel warnings before we go?
The Foreign Office website contains all kinds of information that travellers could need before heading abroad. It includes really important information, like passport and visa requirements, as well as information about the country’s customs and culture.
So if you’re heading to Spain this Spring, make sure you read up on the travel advice before jetting off. Here’s a round-up of some of the advice the Foreign Office highlights.
Read more: Urgent holiday warning issued to Brits with passport applications to be hit by delays
Forest Fires
With summer approaching and the weather heating up, travellers should be aware of the possibility of forest fires. The Foreign Office say that thy occur frequently in Spain during the summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 40C.
Travellers are warned to take care when visiting or driving through woodland. Causing a forest fire is considered a criminal offence in Spain even if unintentional.
Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, don’t light barbecues and don’t leave empty bottles behind. If you see a fire, report it immediately to emergency services on 112.
Demonstrations, strike action and marches
Demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches may take place in Spain with little or no warning, particularly in cities. You should follow the advice of the police and local authorities.
While the vast majority of demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of isolated incidents of unrest or violence. If you’re in and around areas where demonstrations are taking place, remain vigilant and move away quickly if there are signs of any disorder.
Terrorism
The Foreign Office advice states that “terrorists are likely to carry out attacks in Spain”. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. The Spanish authorities take measures to protect visitors, but you should be vigilant and follow the instructions of the local authorities.
Balconies
There have been a number of very serious, and some fatal, accidents where British tourists have fallen from a height, specifically balconies, resulting in devastating injuries. The Foreign Office reminds travellers not to take unnecessary risks around balconies, particularly when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Road travel
If you’re taking a road trip whilst abroad, then remember that road rules may be different to those in the UK. Many cities in Spain have introduced anti-pollution protocols similar to the low-emission zones across the UK and as such certain charges may apply.
Driving is on the right of the road and all cars must carry two red warning triangles which, in the event of an accident or breakdown, should be placed in front of and behind the vehicle at least 50 metres away from the vehicle. You must have a spare wheel and the tools to change it.
If at any time you have to leave your vehicle due to an accident or breakdown or while waiting for the arrival of the emergency services, you must wear a reflective vest or you may face a heavy fine.
Crime
While most visits for most people in Spain are trouble-free, some have reported falling victim to street crime. Thieves using distraction techniques often work in teams of two or more people and tend to target money and passports.
The Foreign Office advises travellers that they shouldn’t carry all of their valuables in one place and remember to keep a photocopy or scanned copy of their passport somewhere safe. If your hotel requests your passport, make sure to wait until they return it to you and do not leave it at reception overnight.
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Ryanair launches new flights from Newcastle Airport to Barcelona from this April
