I feel very safe in Ibiza, however wherever we are in the world there are always things we can do to increase the chances of us staying safe and having a hassle-free trip.  Here’s my tips for having a safe holiday in Ibiza:

• Never, ever leave valuables unattended in your car.  This includes leaving your luggage in the boot before checking in on your first day or after checking out on your last day.  With early morning/late night flights, it’s so convenient to pop the suitcases in the car whilst you hit the beach or go for dinner but IT IS NOT WORTH THE RISK!!!!!  I cannot tell you how many ransacked abandoned suitcases I have seen in remote spots of Ibiza whilst out running.  Just don’t do it.

• It goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, but this includes if you’re going to be having a little snooze…. I sat near a lady once who woke up to find her things gone (that sounds very dodgy so I’d just like to assure you my being nearby was not connected to the crime!!!!).  If you’re going to fall asleep, use your bag as your pillow.

• Keep an eye on your bag whilst sitting at an outside bar or restaurant… it’s not unheard of to have bags stolen in this situation.

• If you’re hiring a car, be very careful how you drive around roundabouts, because drivers in Ibiza don’t follow the same rules as northern Europe!  Many (but not all) drivers use the outside lane on the roundabout, no matter what exit they are taking…. including if they are turning left (ie going all the way around the roundabout).  You can either do the same as them, but in this case be aware of drivers on the inside who may need to come across you in order to exit.  Or if you’re not taking the first exit, you can drive on the inside until you need to exit, but be aware that the car on your right might not be coming off at the same exit!  My tip is to have no ego and be willing to safely stop in order to let a car pass until you can safely make your move.

• In the height of summer it can be very frustrating having to wait for a licensed taxi, and therefore tempting to get into an unlicensed car (these tend to be offered at beaches where there’s no taxi rank).  But ask yourself if you’d get into anyone’s car back home?  If the answer is no, why would you do it on holiday?  Don’t forget most beaches have a bus service which will at least take you to the nearest town, and from there you can walk to the taxi rank and take a licensed taxi.

• Have a list of emergency numbers listed in the notes in your phone.  Here’s a list you can copy/paste:
  • 112 : Emergencies
  • 061 : Non-emergency health
  • 091 : National Police
  • 092 : Local Police
  • 062 : Guardia Civil
  • 080 : Fire Brigade
  • 0034 900 202 202 : Sea Rescue