Those who disobey the rules could face hefty fines.
British holidaymakers are being warned of a new rule being introduced in Spain that will result in fines for anyone caught with too much skin on show.
The busy summer period is on the horizon, a time in which thousands of Brits in desperate need for sun will travel to Spain in order to get a bit of colour on their skin and frolic on it’s sandy beaches.
Barcelona draws the most tourists out of any Spanish city, with over nine million tourists annually, yet many visitors aren’t aware of the rules and regulations surrounding what is appropriate to wear while walking the streets, regardless of how hot and sticky it might be.
While it’s totally acceptable to roam free without a t-shirt or bikini top while on one of the coast’s breathtaking beaches, the same rule absolutely does not apply to strolling around the town or sitting down for a bite to eat or a drink in an outdoor bar or restaurant.
We all know how hot it can get in the height of summer in places like Barcelona, with June and July temperatures averaging between 28C and 32C, but if you want to avoid a £500 fine, it’s best to keep your top on when off the beach.
As statement on gov.uk regarding dress protocol in Spain declares: “In some parts of Spain it’s against the law to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain.
“You may be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.”
The Foreign Office clarifies: “Understanding the new rules and how they could affect you should be a priority to make sure that nothing takes you by surprise during your trip. With these announcements strict laws could also see travellers handed a £500 fine for wearing a bikini or going shirtless in Spain.
“The Foreign Office has issued warnings that if people are caught without being properly clothed in some areas near to beaches they will be stopped by the police. Tourists are fine to wear bikinis and swimwear on the beach or poolside – but if you head to local shops and restaurants, you could end up being fined if dressed inappropriately.”
With regard to Barcelona specifically, EuroWeeklyNews states: “The Ordinance on Measures to Promote and Guarantee Citizen Coexistence in the Public Space of the city of Barcelona includes fines of from €120 (approximately £102) up to €300 (approximately £256) for going without a shirt or wearing a swimsuit.”
So there you go, if you want to keep your holiday money for tapas and San Miguel (other Spanish beers are available), then keep your kit on.
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