Luxury or Rip-off? - Spanish Sunshine Comes at a Price for Unwary Tourists

“Premium spots” cost more in Spain. A spot in the sun in the winter, a spot in the shade in the summer. Getty Images/iStockphoto/e_rasmus

The new regulation in Spain, demanding different prices for differently positioned tables, is already making big waves. Thus, a restaurant visit could get pricier if the table is positioned in the sun or the shade depending on the season, offers a particularly beautiful view, or is in the front row with an ocean view.

“Sunspots are premium spots”

A German tourist has already experienced the new regulation firsthand, as reported by “Mallorca Magazine”. She describes the situation as “absolutely frustrating”. She had reserved a spot in the shade, but wanted to sit in the sun.

“When we wanted to change the table, the waitress told us that a table in the sun would cost an extra 10 euros,” says the tourist. That is equivalent to about 11 dollars. The owner then explained that both on the website and on the menu, the spots in the sun are marked as ‘premium tables’. And, “premium” spots are indeed more expensive.

These measures are being implemented at a time when Spain is generally introducing new laws to change practices and protect the rights of workers in the important hospitality industry. There are also voices that see these regulations as a new way to make tourists part with their money.