Spain holidays can once again be pencilled into Britons’ calendars after travel restrictions were eased. After months of being unable to jet off to the nation’s favourite holiday destination, Spanish breaks are back in business. However, they won’t be the same as before.
The new rule came into place in Majorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera on July 13.
It applies to nearly all public places, with the exception of the beach, walking on the seafront promenades, swimming pool, countryside or whilst eating or drinking in a restaurant.
Tourists could find themselves slapped with hefty fines if they do not don a mask.
Police could fine holidaymakers £22, £45 or £90 from today if they are found flouting this.
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Locals and visitors alike were given a week’s grace period to become accustomed to the rule.
However, this expired today and fines will now be dished out.
The level of the fine (€25, €50 or €100) will depend on the circumstance and “the severity of the breach”.
Tourists will not only have to hand over the money if they are caught without a mask, but they will have to share their personal details.
Police have been instructed to take precise details and will ask tourists for identification and their name and address.
Holidaymakers may also have to share where they are staying if appropriate.
Furthermore, Spanish police will note where the breach has taken place, the circumstances and the number of people involved.
They will additionally record the degree of intent, what response the person gives when stopped and whether they repeat the offence.
Those working in tourism on the islands of Majorca and Ibiza are angered by the severity of the ruling.
Angry hoteliers and tourism leaders are against the order amid concerns it will put tourists off coming to the islands.
Tourism has already been badly affected by coronavirus in Spain.
However, most holiday locations in Spain, including the Costa del Sol, are now also adopting the compulsory measure as Spain battles with daily outbreaks of coronavirus.
The country currently has 260,255 confirmed cases of coronavirus.
Additional reporting by Rita Sobot.