Holiday hotspot loved by Brits introduces new ban with £630 fines for rule-breakers
BRIT holidaymakers could face eyewatering fines for seemingly innocent purchases under new rules in a popular tourist spot.
New fines brought in at a sunny destination have prompted warnings to tourists to be careful when buying souvenirs.
With the summer holidays fast approaching, many families will be dreaming of setting off for a well earned break in the sun.
But one ever-popular location has brought in new rules against unauthorised street vendors.
Unsuspecting tourists are warned not to buy things from street vendors in Palma, the capital of the Spanish island Majorca.
It may be tempting to pick up a quick snack or refreshment from conveniently placed street vendors.
But tourists who break the new rules risk being hit with a mammoth fine.
Under the regulations, people who are caught buying from rogue street salespeople could face penalties of up to €750 (£630).
The ban applies to the purchase of anything from food and drinks to souvenirs and watches.
Danny Toffel, CEO and founder of online retailer Watches2U, told Euro Weekly News: “When travelling abroad, it’s always worth reading up on local rules.
“These measures have been implemented to safeguard Palma’s culture and economy and, in some instances, for public safety.
“Purchasing from unauthorised street vendors might appear a harmless way to snag a bargain, but they can undermine local, legitimate businesses.”
Tourists in the popular holiday spot are instead advised to buy from reputable, legitimate businesses instead of street vendors.
Toffel added: “Illegal street vendors may also peddle counterfeit goods, which again may not seem like a significant issue to many, but violate intellectual property rules and divert money away from legitimate businesses.”
These new laws are understood to be related to concerns from residents about overtourism.
Holidaymakers in Majorca should also be aware of new regulations around electric scooters.
Riders now have to prove they have civil liability insurance and have to wear a helmet.
Fresh penalties on graffiti have also been unveiled, with rule-breakers to get handed a €3,000 fine.
There are also penalties against nudism – whether it be total or partial – of up to €750.
Tourists are ultimately advised to make sure they read up on the local rules and customs of wherever they travel to.
A document explaining the new regulations says the rules are in place to “prevent inappropriate everyday actions” and “address incivility in general.”