British tourists visiting Portugal this year should pay special attention to the new rules of public conduct in force in the Algarve. In Albufeira, one of the most popular destinations for foreign visitors, local authorities launched a zero tolerance campaign for antisocial behavior, with fines that can reach around 1,800 euros. However, the most surprising thing for the British is a fine for this behavior related to supermarket trolleys.
The sanctions are part of the “Stop, Respect, Relax” initiative, launched by the Albufeira municipality to protect residents and preserve the city’s reputation as a family destination.
The objective is to stop behavior considered disrespectful or disruptive, especially during the months with the highest tourist influx, according to the British newspaper Express.
Fines start at 150 euros and can go up to 1,800 euros, depending on the severity of the infraction. Among the behaviors punished are leaving shopping carts out of place, lighting barbecues on the beach, producing excessive noise, consuming alcohol on public roads or committing acts of public indecency.
Stricter regulations across Europe
According to the British company One Sure Insurance, cited by the international press, these measures are part of a broader trend in Europe to penalize inappropriate behavior by tourists. The company warns that “with so many new local rules emerging, travelers should be careful to avoid unexpected expenses during their vacation.”
The same source recalls that, in the last four years, Portugal has invested more than 144 million euros in municipal projects aimed at reinforcing security and improving coexistence between visitors and residents.
Swimming suits, alcohol and camping among the infractions
Among the new prohibitions, wearing swimwear outside the beach or pool can result in fines of between 300 and 1,500 euros. Acts such as urinating or defecating in public, walking naked or having sexual intercourse in public places can be punished with amounts of up to 1,800 euros.
Unauthorized camping or sleeping in public spaces is also sanctioned, with fines between 150 and 750 euros, the same amount applied to anyone who spits on public roads, according to the same source.
Even shopping carts give a fine
One of the most surprising measures is the penalty for leaving supermarket carts in parking lots or on the street, an offense that can cost up to 750 euros. Local authorities state that this rule aims to combat urban disorder and reduce trash in the busiest areas.
Visible rules and clear objective
Information panels with the new standards have already been installed in the center and coastal areas of Albufeira, according to the . The municipality guarantees that the measures were motivated by several episodes of bad tourist behavior recorded last summer, some of which went viral on social media.
The campaign has the support of the City Council, police forces and local businesspeople, who hope that the new rules will contribute to more responsible and respectful tourism, maintaining Albufeira as a destination of excellence for families and visitors from all over the world.
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