Would you let a 16-year-old travel to Gibraltar with a friend?

[Burgundyleaf]

My 16 year old DS wants to go to Gibraltar with his friend this summer, just the two of them. Are we crazy to let him go?

i travelled in my own at 16. Had a great time. My own son is almost 16 and I can’t see it - unless there’s a massive leap in maturity, I wouldn’t allow it. Very much depends on the teen (and the friend).

If everyone in the party is under 17 at the time they enter, it likely will be an issue with border control: https://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/press-releases/technical-notice-information-with-respect-to-minors-crossing-the-border-7472022-8330

If they'll be 17 it may be fine, although IME Gibraltar is expensive. There are few budget options for lodging (Emile may be the best bet, but has really mixed reviews) and the old option of staying on the Spanish side in La Línea or nearby and crossing into Gibraltar each day would be prohibitively time consuming post-Brexit and especially now with EES being implemented (unless they all have EU passports).

Would they consider another location? Malta might work; because there's a strong political will to support people spending time there to study English the infrastructure is more accustomed to and more friendly toward older teens on their own and even some hotels will allow 16yos to book and check in on their own.

You are not alone.

IMO Depends on the 16 yr old.

I wouldn’t let my 17 yr old DS (he’s not competent to) but I’m pretty confident my currently 14 yr old DD could mange when she’s 16.

I went to Italy with friends when I was 17. Booked, organised and paid for it myself too.

Our DD went to Lithuania aged 16. Her and her BF from school chose it based on the advice of a Latvian friend. They were confused by the Ls
She had a ball. The best friend is not her BF anymore.
I'd also question Gibraltar. We went for the day last year. It's so dull