Benidorm unsafe sex-spot for Brits abroad
Benidorm has been uncovered as Mediterranean hotspot for unprotected casual sex, according to new research into the behaviour and health of British holidaymakers.
The national survey found that one in ten Brits (9 per cent) have had sex with a stranger on holiday without using a condom. When asked if it happened in one of Europe’s popular summer destinations, Benidorm came out on top (12 per cent), followed by Ayia Napa, Faliraki and Rome.
Over indulgence, law breaking and sex-ploits were just some of the things revealed by the 2,029 Brits who took part in the research, which was commissioned by the Pharmacy2U Online Doctor service.
Excessive drinking and a ‘you only live once’ (YOLO) attitude were the source of much remorse. 15 per cent of the under 36s regretted something they did on holiday, which they wouldn’t have done at home.
It also found that:
45 per cent wouldn’t necessarily get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if they had unprotected casual sex – many only prompted to do so if they had symptoms (22 per cent).
The under 36s admitted to most reckless holiday pursuits, including drinking alcohol to excess (31 per cent), eating nothing but junk food (20 per cent) and smoking more or for the first time (13 per cent).
One in ten under 25s (9 per cent) said embarrassing pictures or videos were posted online.
One in fifty (2 per cent) admitted they’d performed a sex act in public.
Half (48 per cent) have suffered sun burn
Medical Director of the Pharmacy2U Online Doctor service and a working NHS GP, Dr Nitin Shori said: “Everyone wants to enjoy their summer getaway, but laid back attitudes and fewer inhibitions can lead to a regret-filled journey home.
“Many are putting themselves at increased risk of STIs while abroad - such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes and HIV. If you’re likely to have casual sex then condoms are an essential holiday item – check the expiry dates though and make sure they have the European CE mark. It’s important to be aware that certain infections can be passed on by oral sex too.
“Some of the most common STIs often have no warning signs, so people aren’t aware they’ve contracted something. Others may experience symptoms like unusual discharge, abdominal pain and discomfort when urinating. If you’re worried you’ve put yourself at risk it’s best to get checked out, as undetected STIs can be spread to others and could cause health complications if left untreated.”
