5 Most Common Problems Brits Experience in Spain

There are many destinations in the world to choose from. One of a fascinating countries to visit is Spain. This diverse country is a favourite tourist destination of various people across the globe. Britons, for instance, love to travel to Spain because it’s located in Europe and it boasts its historical background, rich culture, delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife and friendly constituents.

Spain, however, is not perfect. It has many issues especially when it comes to its safety and security. Barcelona, for instance, is considered a hot spot for pickpockets and thieves. In fact, a recent report by CompareTheMarket.com shows that British tourists going on a holiday in Spain were most likely to lose their phones or suffer from food poisoning.

Out of the 8,000 visitors, they asked, one in four visits by Brits involved a problem, including lost money, food poisoning or stolen phones. Here are the top problems Britons encounter in Spain.

1. Street Pickpockets

The odds of thieves stealing your cell phone, wallet and bag is high in Spain, particularly in Barcelona. There are many ways to attract pickpockets in the area, like struggling with heavy luggage, appearing lost, handbags, holding a map or focusing on the tourist spots and not your belongings.

Pickpockets are rampant in crowded streets and tourist destinations, making the country a travel risk. So, if you’re travelling to Spain, make sure you take extra care of your things. Don’t show off your devices, phones or gadgets. Lastly, make sure you have a valid and reliable travel insurance. This insurance will shoulder or cover lost or stolen items.

2. Crimes

There is a high crime rate in Spain, just like in other countries. However, a majority of the offences committed are just petty such as snatching, theft, pickpocketing, occasional mugging and violent attacks.

Travellers can reduce the chance of becoming a victim of being cautious when strolling the streets, especially in crowded tourist spots and train stations. Moreover, you should lock extra cash, passports and credit cards in hotel safes. Go out and explore the city with only your essentials – your cell phone, a little cash and camera.

Lastly, never leave your valuables unattended at any time. Tourists are favourite targets of criminals because they know you have cash in you. So being careful is a must in Spain.

3. Heat and Climate

Spain can be very hot and humid. For older adults and young children, staying hydrated and ventilated is important. Avoid staying under the sun for extended periods of time. Moreover, make sure you rest in between tours to regain strength.

Heat stroke is a dangerous condition that might lead to potentially fatal complications. Thus, preventing your temperature from becoming too hot is important. Bring water, towels and refreshments during tours.

4. Scams of All Sorts

When you say fraud, Spain has all kinds of them. Tourists, like pickpockets, are the favourite targets of scammers because they’re gullible and easy to persuade. It is imperative to remain alerted and aware all the time, especially when you’re shopping or buying merchandise.

You can be a victim of scams without even knowing it. Scammers are everywhere from taxis and restaurants to local stores and the streets. Make sure you are safe, and you have access to help whenever the need arises. Before going to Spain, you should have a valid single trip travel insurance or an annual travel insurance.

5. Terrorism

Over the past years, Spain has been the target of terrorist attacks. Well, many other countries in Europe are targets too. To prevent being a victim, be extra cautious and avoid places that are very crowded. Avoid walking alone during the night and always register your name in the embassy before embarking on your itinerary.

Moreover, be informed of travel risks issued by the government. If they say that it’s not safe, then do not pursue with the travel plan. It’s better to be safe than sorry in the end.

Spain is a beautiful country that has so much to offer. Though it’s not perfect and its reputation with pickpockets and thieves is widely known all over the world, there are much more great things that make the country unique and one of the best choices to stay during the holiday.

Choose travel insurance that will get you feel safe and secure. Choose the best travel insurance policy to suit your requirements and to cover even lost belongings. Being insured is a way to make sure you’re safe, and in case, something happens during the vacation, you have access to medical transport, attention and treatment.