Holidays to Majorca, off the coast of Spain, will soon see strict rules introduced when it comes to drinking alcohol. Authorities are cracking down on alcohol consumption and bars and tourists could be fined up to £3,000 if rules are flouted. The booze clamp-down comes into effect on 1 April 2019 in Palma, the island’s capital, and will see bars prohibited from “incitement to drink.” This means deals such as happy hour deals and two-for-one will no longer be allowed in the most popular waterfront areas of Palma.
Bars, clubs and restaurants will also not be able to promote any drinking in the street.
The heavy measures are being introduced in a bid to cut down on antisocial behaviour.
Majorca is popular with British and German tourists who enjoy drinking and late-night clubbing.
However, only parts of the island will be affected by the restrictions, imposed by city hall.
The rules will only apply to certain areas in Palma: Cala Major, Center, Paseo Maritimo and the entire Playa de Palma.
Drinking outside will be banned in certain streets – and the bars will be at risk if their customers are found to be breaking the rules.
Outdoor drinking will be banned on Carrer del Pare Bartomeu Salvà, Carrer del Llaüt and Carrer de les Canyes.
Tourism bosses of the Balearic Islands – of which Majorca and neighbouring Ibiza are just two – are also considering whether to limit booze served as part of all-inclusive packages to curb antisocial behaviour as a result of excessive drinking.
Officials believe the limitless supply of alcohol at all-inclusive hotels has contributed to a rise in crime and dangerous crazes like ‘balconing’, which involves people jumping from balcony to balcony, often while drunk.
However, tour operators oppose the suggestion and believe such strict measure would limit tourism to the island and put off holidaymakers.
This week it was revealed that Costa del Sol holidaymakers will be able to enjoy sun-soaked shopping sprees and two new hotels as the intu brand brings its latest retail project to mainland Spain.
The brand, known for UK malls including Manchester’s Trafford Centre, is set to cater to Britons overseas.
The complex is located north of Palacio de Congresos and will span across 250,000 square metres of land.
The company’s website built up excitement for the lavish new site, and stated it was a “resort like no other”.
It said: “intu Costa del Sol is set to redefine the model of the retail industry.
“An extraordinary place where the most demanding guests meet the most exciting experiences.
“Bringing together the best in leisure, retail, dining, hotels, events, conferences, sports and well-being whilst all set among beautiful public spaces.”
