The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for Portugal, emphasising water safety and new local regulations that could result in on-the-spot fines for British tourists. The advice covers mainland Portugal, Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Azores.
Water Safety Warnings
The FCDO issued a stark warning: "Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Portugal." The advice urges constant supervision of children, stating: "Always supervise children. Keep small children within arms-reach in and around swimming pools, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present. Be particularly vigilant of children if you are staying in a villa with a private pool."
For beachgoers, the FCDO advises: "Take care when swimming in the sea. Always supervise children and keep small children within arms-reach. Don't walk close to the water's edge, especially along unsupervised stretches of beach. Waves can be unpredictable and some beaches have a strong undertow."
Regarding rip currents, the guidance states: "Beware of rip tides, which can cause drowning. If you are caught in a rip tide, do not try to swim against it. Swim parallel to the coastline until you no longer feel the current, then try to swim towards the shore." It also warns against diving into unknown waters due to hidden rocks or shallow depths that can cause serious injury or death, and advises avoiding beaches where rivers meet the sea due to strong currents.
Beach Flag System and Event Safety
Supervised beaches use a flag system: a red flag means do not enter the water; yellow means only paddle at the water's edge. The FCDO advises extra care and local knowledge where no lifeguards or flags are present. For festivals and large events, the FCDO recommends following police and local authority advice and taking care of valuables.
Albufeira Code of Conduct and Fines
The municipality of Albufeira has introduced a Code of Conduct banning inappropriate behaviour in public places. Violators face on-the-spot fines: spitting on the street costs €150 to €750 (approximately £128 to £640), and drinking alcohol in the street incurs fines of €300 to €1,500 (about £255 to £1,278).
Millions of Brits visit Portugal each year. The FCDO advises all travellers to check the latest advice before travelling and sign up for updates in case of changes.
