Boozy Brits flock to Benidorm to observe Euros – however some say it is ‘hell on earth’
Football-mad England fans will be flocking in droves to Benidorm for Euro 2024 in pursuit of cheap pints and better weather.
It’s true that the beautiful game enables the nation – footy fans or not – to come together to soak up the sun and boozy atmosphere as one.
But, with the risk of a summer wash out and with pint prices soaring thanks to the cost of living crisis, many of those looking to get plastered in pub gardens and cheer on England are looking further afield.
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Despite tourists worldwide making the pilgrimage to the UK specifically for a taste of pub culture, some Brits are flouting their oldest tradition and will be jumping on flights to Benidorm for this year’s UEFA European Championships.
The Costa Blanca hot-spot is offering highs of 27C and 84p beers whereas 17C England will be drenched in rainfall and served, on average, £5.17 pints, meaning the cost of flights and hotels are a worthwhile sacrifice for a ‘buzzing’ time abroad.
(Image: Getty Images)
Though, England fans’ descent on the Benidorm strip has also been described by some as “hell on earth”.
Over on TikTok, a creator named Tom asked who is going to Benidorm for the Euros 2024 to gauge interest after they shared a boozy video from a previous tournament.
It’s safe to say many England fans were eager to share their plans, with England social media users sharing what dates they were planning to arrive.
One wrote: “I go out on the 11th until 18th, so catch England’s first game over there. Can’t wait.” Another shared: “Yep I will be, I fly on the 15th, absolutely buzzing for it.”
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(Image: Humphrey Nemar/dailystar)
While a third said: “Arriving the 15th. Sunday is the match.” Someone else shared: “Going there on the 13th of July hopefully England will be in the final on the 14th.”
Meanwhile, a fifth explained: “Been to last few tournaments in Benidorm having a quieter one in Lanzarote!!”
On average in the UK, Brits will spend an average of £82 on a night out, according to a MoneySuperMarket study – a huge chunk out of pay packets during the cost-of-living crisis.
But, Benidorm regular Grumet previously shared the appeal of Benidorm for Brits, where he explained how a whole week there can cost just £250 – booze included.
(Image: grumettt)
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He told us: “I can do a full week – accommodation, flights, food and drink for under £250. I go with the family in the summer, but in the winter it’s cheap to get over there so all the lads just go. You can get return flights for about £30.”
However, not everyone is so up for it. One TikTok user called England fans celebrating the Euros in Benidorm as “hell on earth” – despite many cementing their plans to make the 900-mile journey to the Spanish seaside resort.
The unofficial ‘King of Benidorm, real name Nigel Pope, has been living in Spain after moving from Cornwall seven years ago.
He understands that Brits have forged a “bad’ reputation” through their boozy antics.
Nigel believes Englishmen and women are choosing Benidorm as a cheaper and longer alternative to a night out back home, but warns England fans that the drinks are ‘much stronger’.
(Image: Nigel Pope)
Nigel told us: “Obviously Brits have a bad reputation in some areas because of the amount of drink they consume. I work in a bar and they just forget how much stronger and bigger amounts are given here.
“Also, I do think that because of the bad weather in the UK and the cost of living crisis, some people are just out and over enjoying themselves and de-stressing.
“I always say to people, that you only hear about the few problems, but 99.9 per cent of the good times, you never hear about that.
“When you come to Benidorm, you will find it one of the most friendliest place ever.”
