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Anti-tourism protests are taking place across Spain (Image: Getty)
Brits heading to Spain this summer have been issued with a warning. The Foreign Office said there is a "risk of unrest or violence" across the popular holiday destination and are urging tourists to be mindful.
Just under 18 million Brits visited Spain in 2023, making it the most popular country for travellers from the UK. Despite being loved for its warm weather and stunning beaches, there is the potential for protests and unrest in Spain this summer. Tourists are advised to follow the advice of local authorities and react quickly if there are any signs of violence.
The Foreign Office said: "Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.
"While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder."
It comes as anti-tourism protests continue to take place across Spain. Just last month, angry protesters launched an orange flare into the reception area of a hotel in Barcelona.
The demonstrators also surrounded the hotel and held placards claiming tourism was pricing them out of housing. They also sprayed holidaymakers with water pistols as they marched through the city's streets.
Meanwhile, up to 30,000 people marched through tourist hotspots across the Balearic Islands to demand action against overtourism. They pointed towards holiday lets, such as Airbnb, for causing a surge in rent costs for local residents.
Spanish locals are blaming tourists for increasing house prices (Image: Getty)
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Other protesters chanted at holidaymakers: "Tourists go home." Meanwhile, some visitors were left trapped in cafes while angry locals waved placards and blocked them in.
The Foreign Office is also warning tourists about the risk of street crime in Spain. They are urging Brits to take care of their passports and personal belongings while they visit the country this summer.
They said: "Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.
"Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe."
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