A holidaymaker's bizarre attempt to get a tan while travelling on a high-speed train in Spain has ended in disaster, leaving her hospitalised with severe burns.
The unnamed woman was travelling between Madrid and Ferrol when she decided to take advantage of the sunny weather by pressing her bare legs against the train's window for an extended period.
A Painful Lesson in Physics
What the sunbather failed to consider was the magnifying effect of the train window combined with the vehicle's high speed. The result was second-degree burns so severe that she required immediate medical attention upon arrival at her destination.
Spanish rail operator Renfe issued a warning after the incident, reminding passengers that train windows can intensify sunlight dramatically, especially when travelling at speeds approaching 300km/h.
Medical Experts Weigh In
Dermatologists warn that this case highlights a little-known danger of modern travel. 'The combination of glass and speed creates a unique risk,' explains Dr. Elena Martínez of Barcelona Dermatology Clinic. 'UV radiation becomes concentrated, acting almost like a magnifying glass on skin.'
The incident serves as a stark reminder that sun protection remains essential even when indoors or in transit, particularly during summer months in sunny climates.
Travel Safety Reminder
Tour operators are now being urged to include warnings about this unusual hazard in their safety briefings. The burned passenger is reportedly recovering but has learned a painful lesson about unconventional tanning methods.
