Health and safety in Menorca
Health and safety in Menorca is not a major cause for concern, but, as in every country, there are certain things you should be aware of. Most travellers to Menorca have trouble free trips, but by taking some basic precautions the chances of anything going wrong on your holiday will dramatically decrease.
Although there is not much violent crime in the Balearics, tourists are a prime target for pickpockets and bag snatchers, and incidents of this nature are common on Menorca. It’s easy to get caught up in the island’s laid-back atmosphere, but leaving bags or valuables unattended is an open invitation to thieves.
Most petty criminals are extremely good at what they do, so be aware of your personal belongings at all times, especially on the beaches and when you are out at night. Wear bags and cameras strapped across your body and if you intend on using a money belt, hide it under your clothes – it only takes two minutes for an obvious money bag to be unzipped and emptied.
Another thing to watch out for is people who try and tempt you into playing ‘games of chance’. Avoid these games at all costs – those involved have cheating down to a fine art and are simply trying to con you. On the other hand, Spanish culture is relatively liberal and women travelling alone should not experience any problems.
Health concerns are minor in the Balearics – no vaccinations are needed and there are a number of excellent private clinics and free emergency services scattered across the island. However, hospital bills can be ruinously expensive, so non-EU citizens should seriously consider taking out travel insurance. Tap water is considered safe to drink, but can have a strange taste and bottled drinking water is preferable.
In the case of an emergency, dialling 112 will put you through to the Balearic emergencies services and will ensure the quickest and most efficient response to fires, accidents, health issues or other crises. Here are some useful telephone numbers:
Emergency services
Mahon Residencia Sanitaria, for emergencies only after 17:00: 15 77 00 Ciudadella: Ambulatorio, Centro de Salud Canal Salat : 48 01 11, 48 01 12 Emergency ambulance: 061
Private clinics
Mahon Clinica Menorca Miguel de Veri : 36 66 63 Policlinica Virgen de Gracia: 35 11 15 Ciudadella: Clinica Menorca: 48 05 05 Mahon: 36 11 80, 36 54 00 Ciudadella: Plaza San Antonio: 38 19 93 Alayor: 37 12 38 Mercadal: 37 53 00
