Irish holidaymakers are being caught out by new laws in Spanish all-inclusive resorts as they jet off for much-needed summer sunshine.
New drinking rules were quietly brought in in January 2022 but Irish passengers are only just realising as their “all-inclusive” deals now include a cap on alcohol.
In line with the changes, “alcoholic drinks will be limited to six per day” as the Spanish government announced a package of measures designed to try and cut out anti-social behaviour.
The clampdown affects certain resort areas of the Balearic Islands, including Palma, Ibiza, and Magaluf - all of which are popular among Irish tourists.
READ MORE: 'Sneaky' new Spain drinking law catching Irish holidaymakers out with man left 'upset' by rule
Other new rules include bans on pub crawls, happy hours, and two-for-one drinks offers, while shops in affected resorts will be banned from selling alcohol after 9.30 pm during the holiday season.
Those who try and swerve the new guidelines in any way will be hit by hefty fines but Irish travel expert, Eoghan Corry has said the laws should have been “better flagged.”
Mr. Corry explained to the Sunday Irish Mirror that as time goes on, all-inclusive deals might soon be a thing of the past, as people opt not to pay if their alcohol is limited.
He added: “It should have been better flagged but you have to remember it’s at the cheaper end of the all-inclusive business that you find this.
“It’s not really at the premium end. All-inclusive is controversial anyway because tourist boards don’t like it as it keeps people in the resort and doesn’t get them out to the local hotels and bars.
“Certainly in Europe, all-inclusive is becoming less and less a thing.”
As many passengers voice their confusion online, travel agents and hotels facilitating “all-inclusive” deals are being called on to list what is and is not included now.
Travel operator Thomas Cook recently brought the new laws to the attention of their customers via email writing: “Please be advised that a decree has been issued by the Balearic Government on a new restriction for all-inclusive meal options.
“There is a maximum of six alcoholic drinks per person per day that can be served and these drinks will be provided only during lunch and dinner.
“Please be aware that in Magaluf, El Arenal, Playa de Palma in Mallorca, and Sant Antoni in Ibiza, there is a new restriction on all-inclusive.”
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