Tourists issued warning over 'darker side' of Spanish holiday hotspot at Christmas

A travel guru has issued a stark warning to holidaymakers heading to one of Spain's most popular destinations this Christmas.

While the allure of sun-kissed Mallorca might be undeniable during the festive season, Alex from the YouTube channel 'Mallorca Under The Sun' has highlighted a key concern for tourists.

"Now you may well be forgiven for, just looking at Palma Nova this morning, that the island is completely dead," she said in her latest upload. "I'm afraid that is not the case." Alex detailed that despite us edging closer to Christmas, pickpockets have "not gone away" and will be "operating throughout the winter months".

She further cautioned: "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."

In the lead-up to Christmas, right up until Three Kings' Night on January 5, Alex said Palma will be exceptionally busy. She advised those travelling within the island to opt for public transport due to the scarcity of parking spaces.

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."

Alex said another day to be aware of