Health and safety in Majorca

Safety in Majorca is generally good and the crime rate is very low; however, as with any attractive sunshine destination, the island is not without some dangers and you should try to remain vigilant in areas that are heavily populated with tourists. Pickpockets do present a problem in crowded cities and beach and entertainment areas, especially at night.

Too much midday sun in July and August can cause dehydration and severe skin burning, so always make sure you wear sun cream and a hat, and drink plenty of water; tap water is okay to drink, but may taste sharp due to the high chlorine content, while bottled mineral water is inexpensive.

Those driving around the island should take extra care while negotiating the mountain roads, especially along the western coast where mountains meet with the sea. The pitfalls of renting scooters are all too evident, with road accidents in the high season being a fairly common occurrence. If you do decide to get around the island this way, take care to wear a helmet.

Majorca’s busier beaches are on a flag system where a green flag indicates that the water is safe to swim in and a red flag means that it isn’t. Families with children should take heed of this simple warning system.

The quality of healthcare in Majorca’s hospitals is very good and EU citizens can receive free medical care in state hospitals, although it is always advisable when travelling to have medical insurance. All dentists are private in Majorca, so any emergency work will have to be paid for; dental clinics are listed in the pagina amarillas (yellow pages). Pharmacies are also listed in the yellow pages and their locations are marked with a green cross outside.

Majorca hospitals
Majorca General Hospital +34 (0) 971 728484 – Palma de Mallorca
University Hospital Son Dureta +34 (0) 971 175000 – Palma de Mallorca
Majorca Clinic Palmaplanas +34 (0) 971 918000 – Palma de Mallorca
Majorca General Hospital +34 (0) 971 891900 - Muro
de Muro Veler