UK tourist issues 'serious' warning over Majorca holidays and says 'I'm afraid to say'

A travel expert has issued a "serious" warning to anyone from the UK planning on visiting one of Spain's most popular holiday hotspots this Christmas. Alex from the Mallorca Under The Sun channel on YouTube says UK tourists must beware pickpockets at the busiest times of the year.

"Now you may well be forgiven for, just looking at Palma Nova this morning, that the island is completely dead," she said in a recent video. "I’m afraid that is not the case." She explained how pickpockets have "not gone away" and will be "operating throughout the winter months, particularly throughout the Christmas season over in Palma".

She went on: "As amazing as Palma is over the festive season, there is a darker side operating and this is going to be these street thieves, the pickpocketers, the handbag dippers that are going to be out and about. I very much doubt they’re going to be on the next flight to the Canary Islands and operating over there. They’ve got plenty of targets over here in the form of Christmas shoppers and those enjoying the festive season over here in Mallorca."

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Alex also warned that Palma "is going to be extremely busy" in the run up to Christmas. However, she continued: "At the same time, if you are getting on public transport into the centre of Palma, just be aware that is also going to be extremely busy. Which means that you need to pay special attention to the location of your belongings. Watch out for people pickpocketing on public transport, particularly on Saturday night when it’s likely to be very busy."

She cautioned: "Do not carry your backpack across two shoulders, make sure it’s tucked under your arm or wear it across your front. Make sure you know where your wallet and your phone are at all times. Avoid bringing your passport or any important documents with you into Palma, try to leave them at a hotel. If not, just make sure you really do have tight hold of them."