A travel expert has issued a “serious” warning to anyone planning to visit one of Spain’s most popular holiday destinations this Christmas.

Although you can still expect lots of sunshine, Mallorca is transformed during the festive season as the Christmas lights come on and crowds gather for festive events in the city of Palma Nova. If the dreary British weather is killing your Christmas cheer, this is the perfect place to escape.

But Alex from the Mallorca Under The Sun channel on YouTube says there’s something you need to know if you’re planning to do this: pickpockets.

“Now even when you look at Palma Nova this morning, you can tell that the island is completely dead,” he said in a recent video. “I’m afraid that’s not the case.”

He explained how pickpockets “have not disappeared” and “will be active throughout the winter months, especially the Christmas season in Palma”.

He continued: “Although Palma is gorgeous during the festive season, there is a dark side to it and that is street thieves, pickpockets, bag hustlers will be on the loose.

“I very much doubt that they will take the next flight to the Canary Islands and operate there. They have many targets here, such as Christmas shoppers and those enjoying the festive season in Mallorca.”

Alex also warned that Palma would be “extremely busy” in the run-up to Christmas – until the Night of the Three Kings on 5 January. He recommends that anyone traveling to Palma from another part of the island use public transport during this period. , because it will be difficult to reach parking spaces.

However, he continued: “Also remember that if you are going to the center of Palma by public transport, it will also be extremely busy. This means you need to pay particular attention to the location of your destination. Watch out for people pickpocketing on public transport, especially on Saturday nights.” “It’s likely to be intense.”

Another day to watch out for is November 23, when Palma’s “big Christmas lights will be turned on,” Alex said. There will still be large crowds and potential pickpockets.

He warned: “Don’t carry your backpack on two shoulders, tuck it under your arm or put it in front of you. Make sure you always know where your wallet and phone are.

“Avoid bringing your passport or any important documents with you to Palma, try to leave them in a hotel. If not, make sure you have a really tight grip on them.”

But Alex didn’t want to postpone anyone’s visit. He insisted that visiting Palma at this time of year is truly a “magical experience” with its “perfect combination of sunshine with the festiveness of Christmas lights”.