Even as the summer holiday season draws to a close, thousands of Irish tourists are still planning getaways to Spain over the coming weeks to enjoy the country’s renowned autumn sunshine. With its balmy beaches, vibrant nightlife and ancient towns, Spain has remained a firm favourite for Irish holidaymakers seeking a well-deserved escape.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Spain stands as the most sought-after holiday destination for Irish people, with more than 2.5 million of us visiting annually. However, Irish travellers may soon encounter a fresh hurdle when arranging their trips, reports the Irish Mirror.
Spain is mulling over a countrywide prohibition on smoking and vaping in outdoor public areas, a proposal that has already ignited debate amongst tourists and hospitality enterprises. The legislation, tabled on September 9, suggests banning cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vapes in outdoor locations, including pub and restaurant patios, bus stations, sports grounds and even coastlines.
Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia backed the suggested laws, stating: “We’ll always put public health ahead of private interests. Everyone has a right to breathe clean again air… and live longer and better lives.”
Social media users swiftly reacted to the announcement, with @katxo on X posting: “It is unfortunate news for bars and restaurants that will now face a ban on customers who will stop going to consume on the terraces.”
One person added: “Banning vaping has no other purpose than wanting to stop other people’s enjoyment. There are no passive effects and they even smell nice. I neither smoke nor vape.” The news also sparked a bit of a row on TikTok. One user declared: “Won’t be going to Spain then. I’ll go somewhere else.”
Another quipped: “They won’t get my money anymore, Portugal here we come.” Some people said that they already make an effort to be mindful when lighting up.
One wrote: “I am a smoker and I always try to avoid bothering others as much as possible with my smoking. In fact, on terraces, I usually get up and go out to the street, so I think it’s fine. Smoking is my problem, not anyone else’s.”
However, others highlighted the challenges of managing outdoor smoking in a considerate manner. One commenter vented: “I’m fed up with sitting on a terrace and having the brother-in-law of the moment with his cigar blowing all the smoke in my face; there are polite people who step aside so as not to bother, but there are many who couldn’t care less, and it’s a nightmare having to put up with it.”
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