British tourists planning all-inclusive holidays in Spain have been issued a stark warning: your bargain break could end up costing you more than expected.
New regulations in popular Spanish resorts like Magaluf and Playa de Palma are cracking down on excessive drinking, with hotels now required to limit alcohol servings and charge extra for additional drinks beyond set limits.
What's Changing for All-Inclusive Holidays?
The Balearic Islands government has introduced strict measures affecting all-inclusive packages:
- Maximum of six alcoholic drinks per day at lunch and dinner
- Additional drinks must be paid for separately
- New restrictions on party boats and pub crawls
These rules specifically target areas known for rowdy behaviour, including Magaluf, Playa de Palma and Ibiza's West End.
Why the Crackdown?
Local authorities say the measures aim to reduce alcohol-related antisocial behaviour and improve the quality of tourism. A spokesperson explained: "We want to attract visitors who appreciate our culture and gastronomy, not just those coming for cheap alcohol."
The changes follow complaints from residents about noise, vandalism and public drunkenness in tourist hotspots.
What This Means for British Tourists
Travel experts advise holidaymakers to:
- Check hotel policies before booking
- Budget for potential extra drink costs
- Consider alternative dining options
- Respect local regulations to avoid fines
The new rules could significantly impact those expecting unlimited drinks as part of their package. Some hotels may offer non-alcoholic alternatives beyond the limit, while others will charge for any extras.
Tour operators are reportedly updating their websites to reflect these changes, but many travellers may still be unaware of the restrictions when booking.
