Brits in Portugal could face fines of £1,500 in anti-social behaviour clampdown
Travellers flocking to the beloved Portuguese destination of Albufeira this summer could face hefty fines of up to €1,800 (£1,500) as part of a stringent clampdown on indecency and rowdy conduct, aimed chiefly at holidaymakers. The enhanced regulations took effect on June 24, banning various actions in the resort city's public areas.
Local officials have installed signage throughout the town centre, detailing the acceptable and prohibited behaviours as a pre-emptive measure against misdemeanours. These efforts are integral to maintaining Albufeira's reputable image and ensuring its allure for families and tourists beyond the party-seeking young Brits.
The emphasis is on educating tourists about the rules to prevent any unwelcome penalties. Mayor José Carlos Rolo expressed the town's stance: "People have to start changing their mindset and behaviour. Our goal is to prevent these issues and not have to act after they have happened."
In a statement released in the national governmental bulletin Diário da República, the authorities said: "There is an urgent need to establish measures to deal effectively with the adoption of abusive behaviour, particularly by those seeking the municipality of Albufeira as a tourist destination."
The notice added the rules are of a "preventive nature" in order to prevent the practice of acts that "by their nature, may cause undesirable damage to the resident population and the image of the municipality as a tourist destination", reports the Express.
The four rules explained
One of the main penalties is for wearing a bikini or swimsuit outside authorised areas, which could result in a fine ranging from €300 to €1,500 (£255-£1,300)
Anyone caught drinking alcohol in the street, urinating or defecating in public will be fined the same amounts mentioned above.
In more extreme cases, members of the public participating in or simulating sexual acts or practising public nudity will be hit with a fine of between €500 and €1,800 (£426-£1,500).
Additional fines will be handed out to those found camping in any unauthorised areas and spending the night on public roads as well as those seen spitting, with penalties between €150 and €750 (£128-£639).
Albufeira's code of conduct had been prepared for years, but its implementation was accelerated by local authorities after several severe instances of "excessive behaviour" last year, reports the Express.
Politicians have called upon local businesses in the area to help inform tourists and enforce these changes, particularly those working within the nightlife scene.
Brits planning a getaway to Portugal are being urged to take out comprehensive travel insurance, as recommended by the Gov.uk website. The cover should encompass all elements of your holiday, from the schedule and activities to potential emergency costs.
Additionally, the UK government is cautioning travellers about the global risk of terrorism, which impacts UK interests and citizens.
It warned: "Terrorist attacks in Portugal cannot be ruled out," and advised UK visitors to "stay aware of your surroundings at all times".
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