Now Spain Unifies With Colombia, Namibia, Honduras, Sri Lanka, Egypt And More To Restrict UK Tourist For Seventy Two Hours, Here Is The Alernative Destinations

Published on August 1, 2025

Brihuega, a hidden gem in central Spain renowned for its stunning lavender fields, has announced a new restriction for UK tourists due to overwhelming weekend crowds. In a bid to preserve the town’s tranquility and local infrastructure, the mayor has urged UK visitors to limit their trips to weekdays only, from Monday to Thursday. This move comes as Brihuega sees a significant rise in tourism, particularly after its lavender fields went viral on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. As much as 140,000 visitors flood the town during peak summer weekends, causing disruptions for residents and businesses alike.

Brihuega is not alone in implementing restrictions on international tourists. Several countries, such as Colombia, Namibia, and Honduras, have recently introduced visa requirements or entry restrictions for UK travelers in response to reciprocal measures. These steps highlight a growing trend of nations taking control over tourist influxes to protect local communities, the environment, and cultural heritage.

Brihuega’s Lavender Fields: A Major Attraction with Viral Appeal

Brihuega’s lavender fields have become one of Spain’s most photographed locations, attracting visitors from around the world.

Their natural beauty has made them a favorite spot for tourists looking to capture the perfect Instagram shot, particularly as the vibrant purple flowers are in full bloom each summer. The town’s proximity to Madrid also makes it an easy destination for a day trip, further adding to the weekend crowds.

The lavender season has turned Brihuega into a key tourism hotspot, but the popularity of the location has come at a cost. The small town, with a population of just over 5,000, is unable to accommodate the influx of tens of thousands of visitors every weekend.

The large numbers of tourists create overcrowded streets, traffic jams, and overburdened local services, making it increasingly difficult for residents to go about their daily routines.

Alternative Destinations in Spain for UK Tourists

• Elche (Alicante Province)
  Known for Europe’s largest palm grove, Elche offers a serene Mediterranean experience. Visitors can explore the Palau d’Altamira and enjoy the tranquil beaches of Urbanova and Arenales del Sol. The city is just a 30-minute bus ride from Alicante Airport, which has numerous direct UK flights daily.
• Cudillero (Asturias)
  This picturesque fishing village is renowned for its colorful cliff-top houses and rich maritime culture. Cudillero offers fresh seafood, scenic beaches like Playa del Silencio, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the typical tourist crowds.
• Luarca (Asturias)
  A small fishing village with white houses, green hills, and a lively harbor. Luarca is known for its seafood cuisine, including dishes like fabada, and attractions such as the Giant Squid Museum and scenic walking trails.
• Zaragoza (Aragon)
  Often overshadowed by Barcelona, Zaragoza boasts a rich cultural history with Roman ruins, Islamic Mudéjar architecture like the Aljafería Palace, and vibrant tapas bars in the El Tubo neighborhood.
• Valencia
  An emerging favorite among UK travelers, Valencia offers a mix of sun, culture, and affordability. Highlights include the City of Arts and Sciences, Mercado Central, and a thriving food scene. The city has seen a 25% increase in searches for “visit Valencia” in 2023.
• Sitges (Catalonia)
  Located 35 km southwest of Barcelona, Sitges is known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic sites. The town is also recognized for its LGBTQ+ culture and hosts events like Carnival and Sitges Pride.
• Gandia (Valencia Province)
  Gandia offers long, golden sandy beaches and a mix of cultural attractions, including the Ducal Palace and the Collegiate Basilica. The town also hosts the annual Cortoons Gandia animation festival in April.
• L’Ametlla de Mar (Catalonia)
  A coastal town known for its seafood cuisine and active tourism options like diving, snorkeling, and cycling. L’Ametlla de Mar is part of the Costa Daurada’s Nautical Station and offers a range of outdoor activities.
• Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park (Andalusia)
  This natural park is a haven for birdwatchers, featuring salt flats home to flamingos and other migratory birds. The park also offers hiking trails and a unique desert landscape.
• L’Estartit (Catalonia)
  A town known for its scuba diving opportunities, particularly around the Illes Medes archipelago. L’Estartit also boasts a well-equipped sports marina and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Other Countries Limiting UK Citizens

• Colombia: In response to the UK’s decision to reintroduce visa requirements for Colombian nationals, Colombia has reciprocated by imposing visa requirements on UK citizens. This move aims to address the increasing number of asylum applications from Colombian nationals in the UK.
• Namibia: Starting April 2025, Namibia will require UK citizens to obtain a visa before entering the country. This decision is a reciprocal measure following the UK’s visa policies.
• Honduras: In August 2024, Honduras canceled its visa-free regime for British citizens as a reciprocal measure, requiring UK nationals to obtain a visa for entry.
• Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka has implemented a visa-free access policy for citizens of 38 countries, including the UK, to streamline the visa process and address overcrowding at visa-on-arrival counters.
• Egypt: The UK government has advised against all travel to Egypt due to ongoing safety concerns, including terrorism risks and the arbitrary detention of dual British-Egyptian national Alaa Abd el-Fattah.
• United States: While not a ban, UK travelers are required to obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for stays up to 90 days. However, having an ESTA does not guarantee entry, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers have final authority at the border.

A Balance Between Tourism and Preservation

The “One Week, One Weekend” approach adopted by Brihuega is an attempt to strike a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the town’s character. For the local government, the challenge lies in managing the rising number of visitors while maintaining the town’s small-town charm and ensuring that residents are not overwhelmed. The hope is that by spreading tourist visits over weekdays, Brihuega can continue to benefit from tourism without compromising the quality of life for its residents.

Benefits of Limiting Tourist Numbers

Implementing measures to control tourist numbers can offer several advantages, including:

• Environmental Protection: Reducing the number of visitors helps in conserving natural resources and protecting ecosystems from degradation.
• Cultural Preservation: Managing tourist influx ensures that local traditions and cultural heritage are maintained without being overshadowed by mass tourism.
• Improved Quality of Life for Locals: Limiting tourists can alleviate pressure on local infrastructure, leading to better living conditions for residents.
• Enhanced Visitor Experience: Fewer tourists can result in a more enjoyable and authentic experience for travelers, with less overcrowding at attractions.
• Sustainable Economic Growth: By focusing on quality over quantity, destinations can promote sustainable tourism that benefits both the economy and the environment.

Quick Tips for Travelers Visiting Brihuega

1. Visit on Weekdays: To avoid crowds and experience the beauty of Brihuega’s lavender fields in peace, UK tourists should plan their visit for Monday through Thursday.
2. Plan Ahead: With the rise in tourist numbers, booking accommodations and services in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability.
3. Respect Local Customs: Brihuega’s small-town atmosphere means it’s essential to be mindful of the residents and their daily lives, especially during peak tourism periods.
4. Explore Beyond the Lavender Fields: While the lavender fields are the main attraction, Brihuega offers much more, including historical sites and scenic countryside walks. Make the most of your visit by exploring beyond the popular spots.
5. Stay Updated: Keep an eye on local tourism guidelines and restrictions, as they may change based on the season and the number of visitors.

Conclusion: Balancing Popularity and Preservation in Brihuega

Brihuega’s new tourism restrictions mark a bold step in the town’s efforts to preserve its unique charm while accommodating the ever-growing number of visitors. By limiting UK tourist visits to weekdays, the town is hoping to ensure that its lavender fields remain a peaceful retreat and that local businesses can continue to thrive without being overwhelmed. As more destinations like Brihuega face similar challenges due to the rise in mass tourism, it’s clear that finding a balance between preserving local culture and welcoming visitors is becoming an essential part of sustainable tourism practices.

For tourists planning to visit Brihuega, taking advantage of the new restrictions by visiting during weekdays will help ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience, all while contributing to the town’s efforts to maintain its beauty and charm for years to come.