Britons visiting Spain in the coming weeks could be met by new restrictions as several holiday hotspots teeter on the brink of a drought.
Authorities in Andalusia are reportedly in conversations with hotels to install meters in rooms, in a bid to cut back on water consumption. Guests may be forced to forego baths and take showers instead.
Dwindling reserves in the tourist hotspot could also see authorities impose limits on water used to fill swimming pools.
Spain’s Minister of Tourism has issued a warning to tourists, who use nearly double the amount of water than residents in the area.
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Spokesperson Arturo Berna said: “We are sensitive to the drought situation that Andalusia is experiencing and we are analysing the implementation of some measure that affects the rations and efficient use of water.
“Any operation will necessarily have the consensus of the sector.”
When it comes to water consumption, data shows that tourists typically have a far bigger footprint than locals.
The holiday destinations worst affected by water shortages also attract the highest number of tourists.
The Andalusian government explained that the average guest uses 350 litres of water daily, which equates to double what a resident uses.
Several new rules have come into effect for tourists since the UK withdrew from the European Union.
A new regulation means Britons must arrive with the correct permits and visas for visits of a specified duration.
Arriving in the country without the correct documentation could see tourists fined up to £8,000, a rule many visitors are unaware of.
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Tourists could face new restrictions
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Travel Insurance Explained said: “Since the UK left the European Union, the rules for travelling abroad have changed and British who are not aware of the new entry rules for Spain could face a hefty fine.
“Regardless of whether you’re staying in a hotel, hostel, Airbnb or a relative/friend’s house, if your trip is 90 days or less you will need to produce evidence of your pre-booked accommodation at border control once you reach Spain.”
A travel advice service for tourists known as Benidorm Seriously recently warned about a rule that bans visitors from swimming in the sea at certain hours.
The restrictions were reportedly implemented for safety measures and to allow beach cleaning. Failure to comply with the rules could result in a fine between €750 (£641) and €1,200 (£1,026).