‘Drastic measures’ threatened against using towels to bag sunbeds

Towels and other personal items placed on sunbeds to ‘reserve’ them will be removed, Paralimni – Dherynia municipality announced on Tuesday.

The phenomenon has been observed across many municipal beaches, an announcement said.

“Late at night or early in the morning, bathers place towels or other items on sun loungers with the intention of reserving the spot, in several cases before they pay for it, and return to the beach much later,” it added.

The municipality said it will be taking drastic measures to end this phenomenon, “and with the aim of better serving all the bathers who come to the beaches of Protaras”.

Beachgoers were urged to immediately rent out a set of sunbeds and umbrella as soon as they arrive at the beach, and keep their receipt.

“If municipal workers determine that towels or other personal items have been placed with the aim of saving the spot, they will proceed with removing them,” the statement said.

Space on the beach in Protaras can be very limited at the peak of summer.

Media reports, especially in the UK, have previously outlined many incidents where tourists rush to bag sunloungers with towels early in the morning, sometimes leading to violent scenes.

It also said that bathers “must respect the beaches and public property and follow the instructions of the staff and the relevant signs”.

Sunbeds and umbrellas can be paid for with cash, but the public is urged to opt for using cards and contactless payments for their convenience and that of the workers.