Holidaymakers in Spanish resorts have turned the simple act of reserving a sunbed into a full-blown Olympic event. Videos circulating online show guests sprinting at dawn to claim the best spots by the pool, with some even pushing past fellow tourists to secure their prime loungers.
The phenomenon, dubbed the 'Sunbed Olympics', highlights the fierce competition for relaxation spaces in popular holiday destinations. Resorts in Spain, particularly in hotspots like Mallorca and Benidorm, have become battlegrounds where early risers and quick-footed tourists dominate.
The Early Bird Gets the Sunbed
Footage reveals guests racing through resort corridors as soon as the clock strikes the hour when sunbed reservations open. Some holidaymakers have taken to setting alarms for ungodly hours, determined not to miss out on the best spots with optimal sun exposure.
One clip shows a woman in a swimsuit sprinting past slower competitors, while another captures a man dramatically diving onto a coveted lounger to mark his territory.
A Holiday Tradition Gone Extreme
While reserving sunbeds with towels has long been a holiday tradition, the recent escalation to full-on races has left many questioning holiday etiquette. Resort staff often find themselves playing referee in these morning competitions, with some establishments implementing strict 'no reservation' policies that are frequently ignored.
Tourism experts suggest the phenomenon reflects the growing pressure on popular resorts during peak seasons, with guests feeling compelled to secure their perfect spot at any cost.
