The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for British tourists heading to Spain, warning of the dangers of 'balconing'—jumping off or between balconies. The move follows a number of 'very serious accidents' in recent years, including three serious injuries earlier this year.
According to the updated guidance, many incidents have involved British nationals under the influence of drink or drugs. The Foreign Office cautions that travel insurance may not cover such incidents, and local councils in Spain can impose fines for irresponsible balcony behaviour.
In Majorca, the Calvià Council—which covers the Magaluf area—has introduced fines ranging from €750 (£636) to €1,500 (£1,272) for anyone caught balconing or encouraging others to do so. The measure is part of a broader effort to curb anti-social behaviour in the resort.
The warning comes after a series of tragic incidents. Earlier this month, 21-year-old British woman Danielle Hall died after falling from a ninth-floor balcony in Benidorm. In May, 25-year-old Andrew Phillips from Newport suffered severe head injuries after falling from a first-floor balcony in Magaluf, and doctors say his recovery could take up to ten years.
Abta, the travel trade organisation, notes that reported incidents represent 'just a fraction of the total number of incidents'. Three British tourists died in Magaluf after balconing in 2012.
