Staying Safe in Spain
Local Laws
When visiting Spain, it's a good idea to be mindful of a few local rules and traditions. For instance, public nudity is only permitted on designated nudist beaches, and you could face a fine if you're caught elsewhere. You might also find that wearing swimwear or going bare-chested is frowned upon in public spaces away from the beach in certain cities, like Barcelona and Mallorca, and this could also result in a penalty.
Spain also takes noise pollution quite seriously, particularly in places such as Alicante and Barcelona. Be aware that loud conversations or playing music on beaches late at night can lead to fines.
Generally, drinking alcohol in public is not allowed unless you're at a licensed bar or restaurant, and this rule is strictly enforced in areas like Madrid, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands, with the potential for substantial fines. Some resorts also limit the number of alcoholic drinks you can have at all-inclusive hotels.
When it comes to taking photos, it's important to remember that you generally can't photograph individuals in public without their permission, unless they are part of a public event. If you're driving, never leave valuables visible in your parked car, and always keep your doors locked. For your own safety, it's best to only carry what you need, keep your valuables in a secure place, and perhaps carry a photocopy of your passport.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
Spain stands out as a highly welcoming and safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. The country has strong legal protections in place, having legalized same-sex marriage in 2005 and enacted a broader anti-discrimination law in 2022 covering sexual orientation and gender identity.
Socially, public opinion is overwhelmingly positive, with high acceptance rates for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona which boast vibrant queer cultures and host large Pride events. While some rural areas or older generations might hold more conservative views, the general risk of discrimination is low, and Spain is globally recognized for its inclusive atmosphere.
Scams
When visiting Spain, it's wise to be aware of a few common scams that travelers sometimes run into. You might come across people posing as police officers who ask to check your money or documents. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to them taking your cash or valuables.
Another trick is the "Good Samaritan" scam. Someone might try to get your attention by pointing out a supposed problem with your car, like a flat tire. While you're distracted, an accomplice might try to steal things from your car.
You might also encounter individuals offering "lucky rosemary" or "friendship bracelets" and then expecting payment, or street performers running games like the cup and pea trick, which are often rigged so you'll lose your money. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for restaurants that might overcharge you or bring items you didn't order.
At ATMs, be cautious of card skimming devices. Lastly, some scammers might even pretend to be hotel receptionists over the phone, asking for your credit card details by claiming there's a payment issue.
Crime
When visiting Spain, especially in busy spots like Barcelona and Madrid or when using public transport, it's good to be aware of petty theft. Things like pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most frequent issues tourists face. Often, thieves will try to distract you, sometimes with a partner, to get to your belongings.
You might find someone "accidentally" spills something on you or drops coins, creating a diversion while their accomplice makes their move. Cars, particularly rentals and those with foreign plates, can also be targets. Thieves might even slash tires at rest stops or try to lure you to the side of the road in quieter areas.
While serious crime is uncommon, it's worth noting that muggings can happen in secluded places, especially after dark.
