Latest UK travel advice for Spain as body found in Jay Slater search

The search for Jay Slater, a 19-year-old British individual who disappeared in Tenerife, has led to the discovery of human remains almost a month later. The Civil Guard announced that a body was discovered in the Masca area today (June 15), where the 19-year-old had gone missing.

A charity assisting the family also confirmed that the body was found near the location of his mobile phone’s last signal in the western part of the island. DNA testing will be conducted to determine the individual’s identity, in addition to performing an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

The body was discovered with belongings and clothing belonging to Mr. Slater, as reported by charity LBT Global. The bricklayer apprentice from Lancashire attended the NRG music festival June 16.

He then headed to an AirBnB in the village of Masca with two men. The next morning, he set off on an 11-hour walk back to his apartment.

Mr Slater was last spotted by a café owner, inquiring about bus schedules before opting not to wait for two hours. Subsequently, she witnessed him departing the village on foot, with his phone’s last signal traced to the Rural de Teno National Park.

At the time, he had phoned his friends to let them know he was lost walking back and that his phone only had 1% battery remaining. Although formal identification still needs to take place, the Civil Guard says “all evidence suggests” the remains are those of Mr Slater and he may have suffered an accident or a fall as the body was found in a very inaccessible part of the island.

In wake of the news, the latest travel advice for Brits to bare in mind when heading to Spain can be found on the government’s website. In its Safety and Security section, the government warns of risks associated with crime, scams, weather, attire, alcohol, spiking, outdoor activities and transport.

Transport risks

Check with your airline, tour operator or transport company whether there is any planned strike action which might disrupt your journey. In terms of road travel, you can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Spain.

To drive a car or a motorcycle over 125cc in Spain you must be 18 years of age or above, and at least 16 years old to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc. You must carry a valid driving licence and ID.

If you are planning to drive in Spain, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Spain guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

When it comes to using taxis, the government advises you only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required.

Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to 600 euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

There have been a number of serious accidents, some fatal, involving British nationals falling from height, including from balconies. A statement reads: “Do not take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs.

“If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice at the hotel or apartment, and watch out for friends who may be at risk. 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 the incident happened.”

Many large events and public processions are held in Spain each year. Follow the advice of police and local authorities when attending events. Take care of your valuables if attending a festival or large concert.

Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents. Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. Do not dive into unknown water and do not swim at beaches where a river runs into the sea.

Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and get local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs.

Temperatures in some parts of Spain can change very quickly. Take extra care when planning a hike or walk. Check local weather reports for warnings of extreme heat or cold temperatures.

Extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Spain over the summer months. Follow the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services for severe weather warnings.

Wildfires can also happen often in Spain, including on the islands, during the summer months. Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas.

Alcohol laws and bans

It’s illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can get an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches. Local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the Balearic Islands, including:

• Magaluf (Calvià), Mallorca
• Playa de Palma, Mallorca
• San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany), Ibiza

This bans:

• happy hours
• open bars (such as ‘all you can drink in one hour’ offers)
• the sale of alcohol from vending machines
• self-service alcohol dispensers
• organising pub crawls and party boat trips
• ‘off-licence’ sales between 9:30pm and 8am

Possession of even a small quantity of drugs can lead to arrest and detention. Possession of large quantities will usually result in prosecution and a prison sentence. There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending illegal commercially promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.

Dress code

The government says: “In some parts of Spain it’s illegal to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You could be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.

“For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.”

Crime

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. Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.

Attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur. In an emergency call 112. Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easy to find.

See TravelAware ‘Stick with your mates’ for tips and advice. See advice on getting help if you are a victim of crime abroad.

Drink spiking

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy. Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.

Scams

Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.