The Irish Government have issued five important rules to abide by when it comes to trips to Spain this summer to avoid having the holiday from hell.
After two long years of Covid-19 restrictions and trip cancellations, many people are leaving the island to enjoy holidays abroad.
Spain is a popular tourist destination for Irish people, with the roaring sun just one of the enticing factors.
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However, in some areas of the country, there can be higher levels of crime, due to the large volume of eager tourists that flock there.
The Government has issued safety advice to those travelling to Spain this summer, in a bid to reduce the number of people who may be targeted by criminals looking to take advantage of how naïve and relaxed they may be.
Travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs said: “Most of Spain has a moderate rate of crime. However, given the very high number of holidaymakers that visit Spain, additional security measures are rolled out in public areas at peak times, such as during the summer and at Christmas.
“You should be aware that in areas such as airports, bus stations, railway stations, tourist areas and major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, there is a much higher risk of pickpocketing and muggings.”
The first precaution suggested by the Government is to avoid carrying your credit card, travel tickets and money together. Leave spare cash and other valuables in a safe place in your accommodation.
The Department recommends leaving your passport in a safe place unless it is absolutely necessary to carry it around with you. Make sure to leave a copy of it, and other documents such as insurance information, with a family member or a friend that you trust at home.
Don’t use an ATM after it gets dark, especially if you’re alone. Keep an eye out to make sure no one has followed you after your transaction. Try to avoid showing large sums of cash when you’re out in public.
When in public places such as cafes, trains and bus stations, hold on to your personal items. Keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.
Finally, the Government recommends that tourists avoid unlit and dark streets or stairways. Arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment as possible to avoid being out in the streets at unsocial hours.
The Department of Foreign Affairs described such measures as “basic precautions” that should be followed to ensure that you, your family or friends and your items stay safe and enjoy your holiday stress-free.
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