The Dark Side of Benidorm, Drugs, Muggings and Prostitution

The Dark Side of Benidorm, Drugs, Muggings and Prostitution

From Spanish Practices – Living in Spain: Real Life, Real Spain by John Metson

May 30, 2026 · 11 min · Episode 159

About this episode

This episode explores the darker aspects of Benidorm, including drugs, muggings, and prostitution.

Benidorm is famous for sunshine, cheap beer and wild nightlife — but beneath the neon lights lies a darker side. In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore the reality of drugs, muggings, organised prostitution and tourist scams in Benidorm's notorious English Zone and "The Strip." I also take a look at Spain's unusual prostitution laws, the rise in police raids, drink spiking concerns, and why some visitors now avoid "Muggers Alley" altogether. Plus, why Benidorm Old Town offers a very different side of the Costa Blanca resort. A fascinating and sometimes shocking look at one of Spain's most famous holiday destinations.

People in this episode

Host: John Metson

Topics covered

  • drugs
  • muggings
  • prostitution
  • tourist scams
  • Benidorm nightlife
  • Spain's laws

Keywords

  • Benidorm
  • drugs
  • muggings
  • prostitution
  • tourist scams
  • Costa Blanca
  • Spain

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Spanish Practices

Places: Benidorm, Costa Blanca, Benidorm Old Town, Muggers Alley

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