🛡️Safety Guide Alicante

Be extra vigilant with your belongings in busy spots like Explanada de España, Mercado Central, and while on the TRAM or buses. Pickpocketing can occur.

Keep wallets in front pockets, use cross-body bags, and avoid flashing expensive items. Secure your phone, especially when using it outdoors.

El Barrio, Alicante's old town, is lively at night but can get rowdy. Stick to well-lit, populated streets and consider taking a taxi home.

When needing a taxi, use official 'taxi' marked vehicles or reputable apps like Cabify or Free Now for safe and regulated transport, especially late at night.

Never leave your drink unattended in bars or clubs. It's a universal safety rule that applies everywhere, including Alicante's nightlife.

If you're unsure of directions, step into a shop or cafe to consult your map or phone. Appearing lost and distracted can make you a target.

If a situation or person feels off, remove yourself. Your intuition is a powerful safety tool, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.

Knowing phrases like 'Ayuda!' (Help!), 'No entiendo' (I don't understand), or '¿Dónde está la policía?' (Where is the police?) can be invaluable.

If you're going out alone, especially at night or to an unfamiliar area, let a friend or flatmate know your destination and expected return time.

Store local emergency numbers and a trusted contact in your phone and perhaps a physical note, just in case your phone dies.

Online platforms may have fraudulent housing offers. Never pay deposits before viewing the property and verifying the landlord's identity in person.

Demand to see the landlord's DNI (Spanish ID) and ensure it matches the name on any contract. Scammers often pressure for quick payments.

Be wary of unsolicited visits regarding utility contracts or services. Always ask for official ID and never share personal banking details.

Someone might offer you a 'lucky' rosemary sprig or bracelet for free, then demand payment. Politely decline and walk away firmly.

Always check ATMs for suspicious attachments or loose card slots before use. Cover your hand when entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.

Be aware of overly pushy street vendors or restaurants near popular tourist spots like the Castle or Explanada that might overcharge.

Be skeptical of emails or messages claiming to be from banks, government agencies, or rental agencies asking for personal information or urgent payments.

A common pickpocketing tactic involves someone distracting you with a map or question while an accomplice attempts to steal your belongings.

Thoroughly read shared housing contracts ('Contrato de arrendamiento de habitación') to avoid unfair clauses regarding deposits, repairs, or early termination fees.

If you encounter a scam or feel unsafe due to suspicious activity, report it to the Policía Nacional or Policía Local.

For any emergency (police, fire, ambulance), dial 112. Operators can often provide assistance in English and will dispatch the correct services.

For non-life-threatening police matters or to report a crime, call Policía Nacional at 091 or Policía Local at 092.

If you have an EHIC, you can access public healthcare (Centros de Salud, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante). Present your card and DNI.

Non-EU citizens typically need private health insurance for full coverage. For emergencies, hospitals will provide initial treatment regardless.

Familiarize yourself with the location of your closest Centro de Salud (local health center) for non-emergency medical consultations and prescriptions.

Look for the green cross sign. Farmacias in Alicante offer advice for minor ailments, and many pharmacists speak some English.

Public health covers very limited dental care. For most dental needs, you'll need to visit a private dentist. Search for 'dentista de urgencia'.

Consider comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, lost belongings, and trip cancellations for extra peace of mind.

Complete your 'Empadronamiento' at the town hall. This officially registers you as a resident and is crucial for accessing public healthcare and other services.

Always carry a copy of your ID (passport/DNI/NIE) and your health insurance card (EHIC/private insurance) with you.

Before moving in, meet prospective flatmates. Discuss living habits, expectations, and any house rules to ensure compatibility and a safe environment.

If possible, choose a room with a lock. Always keep your room locked when you're out, even if just for a short time, to protect valuables.

Ensure your shared housing contract ('Contrato de arrendamiento de habitación') clearly outlines your rights, responsibilities, and deposit return conditions.

Address any issues or concerns directly and respectfully with your flatmates. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and fosters a safe atmosphere.

Never lend your keys or share access codes. If you lose your keys, inform your landlord immediately to discuss changing the locks for security.

Before signing, check the apartment's security: sturdy main door, working locks on windows, and a secure entrance to the building itself.

Familiarize yourself with all emergency exits and fire safety procedures in your shared apartment building, especially if it's an older structure.

Maintaining a respectful and clean shared environment fosters positive relationships with flatmates, contributing to overall well-being and safety.

If a flatmate brings over someone you don't know and feel uncomfortable with, communicate your concerns. Your safety is paramount.

Take photos or videos of the apartment's condition upon moving in and out to prevent disputes over damages, especially regarding your deposit.