Holidaymakers, beware – overlooked travel laws could land you a hefty fine this summer.
As Brits jet off to soak up the sun, experts are warning of easily missed travel regulations following an influencer’s costly holiday mishap.
The Dubai-based social media star was caught filming on Sardinia’s Spiaggia Rosa just this week – a beach off-limits since 1994 after tourists began stealing its pink sand, causing it to fade. But it seems Sardinia isn’t the only place to have strict laws for tourists. Parkdean Resorts is now sounding the alarm over some of the wildest rules across Europe and beyond.
1. Don’t build sandcastles in Benidorm
Levante beach is among Benidorm’s most popular seaside jewels. Stretching 2km long, the Spanish coastline hosts countless sun loungers and children’s play areas, while boasting gorgeous golden sands.
But watch out, if you want to build a sandcastle here you may need to get a licence – otherwise you could face a fine of up to €150 (£129). This comes after Benidorm’s Town Hall voted against large sand structures in 2016, following a problem with ‘inappropriate images’ and ‘dirtiness’, according to The i.
Experts at Parkdean Resorts said: “Benidorm is all about sun and fun but if you want to build sandcastles on Levante beach you’ll need to get a permit first or you could be fined up to €150 (£129). If you also smoke, sleep or use shampoo or body wash on the beach you could be fined hundreds more.”
Thankfully, these stringent rules don’t apply to modest bucket-and-spade creations, so tourists can breathe easy unless they’re planning an architectural marvel in the sand.
2. It’s illegal to wear camouflage in several countries.
Camouflage might be the height of fashion here, but in Barbados, it’s a serious offence.
In 2020, the Royal Barbados Police Force issued a warning to the public over these ‘disruptive patterns’, stating it cannot be worn in any capacity – whether it’s a top, shoes, belt or even face mask.
Under the ‘Defence Act CAP’, anyone caught donning camo could face a year behind bars, a hefty $2,000 (£1,574) fine, or both.
“Several countries including Barbados, Jamaica and St Lucia have laws to stop people from wearing camouflage clothing,” Parkdean experts added. “This rule came into place as camo wear is often associated with ‘rebels’ and ‘troublemakers’ so leave these items unpacked and at home.”
3. Feeding pigeons in Venice
Feeding pigeons might seem innocuous, but in Venice, it’s been a no-go since 2008. The city officials banned the activity after complaints about the birds pecking at and damaging the historic architecture.
This also included the sale of any bird feed within the city, which stirred up quite the controversy among vendors who made it their business to sell to tourists.
Parkdean experts added: “In a bid to control the number of pigeons and the damage they cause in Venice, the city has banned feeding them. Any tourists spotted giving pigeons food can face fines from $80 (£69) to $775 (£664).”
4. Don’t wear your beachwear in Spain
Strolling around in your beach attire may be commonplace, but in parts of Spain, it’s actually illegal. Those caught flouting the local dress code could be slapped with fines up to £500.
The UK Foreign Office explains: “In some parts of Spain it’s illegal to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You could be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.”
Just last month, one sunbather – who donned just a pair of swimming briefs – sparked outrage in Palma, Majorca, for this exact reason. Locals furiously reacted to this online, with videos and images of the mystery man recirculated by Majorca Daily Bulletin.