British tourists have voiced their anger over controversial new rules Spain has enforced today, requiring them to provide more personal details when booking stays.
The holiday hotspot is beloved by Brits, with a staggering 17.8 million visiting last year. But this mammoth number could drop as the new rules draw fierce backlash.
As of December 2, tourists must provide more details and personal information when booking holidays at hotels, guest houses, and apartments. The same applies to those wanting to hire a car.
As it’s been dubbed, the “Big Brother” law would require hoteliers to provide authorities with this information, including bank account information, personal phone numbers and home addresses.
It would even require couples to disclose the exact nature of their relationship.
One furious Brit wrote on social media: “Spent many years going to Spain, but never again. If you are not wanted then you are not welcome, and who wants to go to places you are not welcome in.”
Another added: “I remember years ago, hotels overseas used to keep your passport in reception. If it’s a security issue and you’ve nothing to hide, I don’t really see the problem.
“My mom lived in Texas for years. Going through Dallas airport was terrifying. You were grilled at the passport window. Where are you staying, why are you here and for how long…..etc.”
A third chimed in: “Let them have their cheap houses. They’ll be repossessed when there’s no income coming in to pay for them.
“I suppose that’ll be the fault of the British, too. Let them bite the hand that feeds them. My advice is, do not go where you’re not wanted.”
Amid the backlash, Spanish hoteliers are doing all they can to convince Brits to visit. Some say they will still allow tourists to check in even if they don’t comply with the new rules.
The law was originally due to be introduced in October but had to be postponed due to pressure from the tourism industry. Some say it even breaches EU data protection laws.
Failure to collect the required information from tourists could land accommodation providers in hot water, as multiple Spanish agencies have vowed to collect fines.