Spain is a stunning holiday hotspot, popular with British tourists who flock there for its sunshine, beaches and of course – for its cheap pints.
However there is one thing that can put holidaymakers on the wrong side of the locals, and sadly it’s one of the most common faux pas tourists make while enjoying Spain.
Binge drinking will make Spanish locals look down on you and it could even have legal repercussions
Christian Wolf, the CEO of CW Real Estate Ibiza explains: “Although binge drinking may be common practice in many countries, people in Spain like to take their time with drinking.”
“Tourists often come to Spain ready to party, but what they don’t realise is that binge drinking is not as accepted here,” says Wolf.”
It’s important to enjoy yourself, but drinking to excess can lead to public disturbances, property damage, and strained relationships with the locals.”
The overindulgent drinking has gotten to such bad levels in some places that six drink limits have been put in place in some of the more raucous resorts.
The six-drink rule is currently in force at all-inclusives in Magaluf, Playa de Palma, and El Arnel in Majorca, and San Antonio in Ibiza, although the rule could widen if it’s a success.
Wolf says although these rules are in place for tourists, Spanish people still do enjoy a drink now and again but their relationship to it is very different.
“Many Spaniards like to go out and have several drinks over the span of an evening while snacking on tapas and other small bites”
“This way they are not just drinking to get drunk, but to enjoy their time with their friends and family and have longevity throughout the night”.
If you’re heading to Spain and want to get on side with the locals, remember to pace yourself.
“Drinking too much, to the point where you show disrespect to locals and cause property damage, is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.”