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Foreign Office issues new warning about ‘balconing’
The Foreign Office is warning Britons that they could be fined if caught ‘balconing’ or behaving irresponsibly on balconies in Spanish hotel or apartment blocks.
The update to its travel advice comes after a third Briton fell to their death from the Eden Roc apartment complex in Magaluf on Sunday.
Teenager Thomas Channon died after falling nearly 70 feet. Last month, 20-year-old Tom Hughes, from Wrexham, died after falling 65 feet from the apartment block, and in April, Scottish teenager Natalie Cormack died after falling from the seventh floor.
In total, there have been five deaths as a result of falls from balconies in the Calvia region, which includes Magaluf, so far this year, but police say they believe four were caused by accidental falls. Only one of the deceased was believed to be trying to get from one balcony to another. Thomas Channon, the latest victim, is believed to have fallen from a raised walkway at the Eden Roc.
Calvia council has strengthened laws introduced in 2016 to make balconing an offence and, in some cases, has trebled the amount of the fines.
So far this year, three tourists have been fined between £500 and £1,300, with the latest on July 14.
The Foreign Office said: "There have been a number of very serious accidents (some fatal) as a result of falls from balconies and walls. Many of these incidents have involved British nationals and have had a devastating impact on those involved and their loved ones.
"Don’t take unnecessary risks around balconies, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs. Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place on a balcony or if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when it happened.
"You should familiarise yourself with the layout of your hotel and accommodation block when you arrive. Always follow the safety advice of your hotel and/or tour operator if staying in a room with a balcony and watch out for friends who may be at risk.
"Some local councils will impose fines to those caught behaving irresponsibly on balconies or practising ‘balconing’."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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