How dangerous is Spain for your safety, health and insurances?
How to stay safe and out of trouble in Spain?
- Spain is in general a safe country for travelers and tourists.
- Keep your wits about you though, as there are risks of being scammed.
- There are incidents of pickpockets or robberies in big cities and busy tourist spots. Avoid flaunting expensive jewellery, phones and bags. Keep valuables safe.
- Be wary of the distraction scam where you are approached by friendly enough people who distract you with questions, offers of flowers or a magic trick while their partners in crime empty your pockets.
- Bands of thieves have been known to operate on motorways either puncturing your tyres at rest stops or pretending to be police officers flagging you down on the pretext of there being something wrong with your car. Whilst helping you fix the tyre or inspecting the ‘problem’, the others take your valuables. Driving a rental or a car with a foreign plate will attract most scammers.
- Robbery is common in Spain, especially on highways, one should also be careful of criminals and fake cops. These usually drive into the back of your car to signal for you to stop. It is recommended to just keep driving or stop in a place where there are many other cars.
- In big cities, traffic can be somewhat chaotic and drivers can be flexible in following the rules.
- Even though possession of cannabis in small quantities and for personal use only is now legal, possession of large quantities or dealing any drugs (including cannabis) is strictly prohibited.
- A hidden threat is the burning sun. Protect yourself against sunstrokes and wear your sun hat to a Flamenco dance too.
- In the wintere it can be cold, bring warm clothes and a raincoat in winter.
- Check recent information on health measures and vaccinations.
What to look out for regarding natural disasters in Spain?
- Forest fires do occur, especially in summer or after long dry spells. Be careful when discarding cigarette butts and avoid starting open fires, use designated barbecues when available.
- Forest fires can cause a lot of damage, so be careful with open fires yourself. Earthquakes can occur in the Canary Islands.
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