Spanish Tourist Office hears calls for ‘softening’ of new data rule

New rule that came into force on December 2, includes some payment details and more

The Spanish Tourist Office has said the country’s travel industry is “very aware” about potential challenges stemming from a new rule requiring hotel guests to supply an extensive range of personal data.

The rule, which came into force on December 2, means travel agencies, hotels and car rental companies have to collect additional information and pass it on to the Spanish government.

The data include passport details, email addresses, home addresses, phone numbers, family relationships and some payment details for every traveller aged 14 and over.

Asked for his views on the new rule, Manuel Butler, UK director of the Spanish Tourist Office, said the travel industry was “very aware there are some aspects that have to be softened and approached in a holistic way”.

He added: “We think we can give you an update on the new rule in a couple of weeks and I can give you more specific details.”

In the first 10 months of this year, the number of UK visitors to Spain increased by 7.1% compared with 2023 to exceed 16.5 million. The forecast for the end of the year is 18.8 million, a rise of 5% compared with 2019.

By the end of the year, it is anticipated that UK travellers will have spent €23 million – up by 30% compared with 2019.

The average stay for UK travellers is 6.98 days, which is down by 4.2% compared with 2019.

This year’s winter season is tipped to see a 25% increase in UK visitor numbers compared with the 2019/20 season, which concluded during the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Canary Islands are predicted to record 54% growth compared with 2019/20, with the Balearic Islands 16% ahead and mainland destinations up 11%.

In 2025, the Spanish Tourist Office (UK) will focus on a “people first” approach encompassing both travellers and residents.

As part of continued efforts on sustainability, Butler said “strong conversations” were being held with tour operators to encourage longer stays, while there will also be further attempts to promote travel to lesser-known destinations.

In a rebrand, the 2025 edition of Spain Sustainability Day will be called ‘Spain Talks’. The event, which will be held in London on April 30, will feature a conference and an awards ceremony.

The destination is also further developing its ‘Spain for All’ campaign which promotes accessible travel and diversity. The advisory board will meet in Seville from May 19-22 next year.

Giving an update on Valencia’s recovery from the deadly floods in October, Butler said attractions, restaurants and shops were “fully operational” again.

“Thank you for your support,” he said, going on to highlight a local campaign with the slogan: ‘Seeing you in Valencia fills our heart’.

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