A travel expert has attempted to reassure Brits who are hoping to go away over Easter.
Sarah Rodrigues, who works with Avanti Travel Insurance, has provided some clarity on travelling to Europe amid the Iran-US conflict.
She understands that 'in a 24-hour news cycle, global events can feel immediate and far-reaching, even when they are geographically distant from a traveller’s intended destination'.
"The vast majority of Europe’s most visited destinations remain open, stable and well prepared for visitors," Rodrigues told LADbible.
Advert
"In major airport hubs such as Paris, Rome and Berlin, travellers may notice an increased security presence.
"However, these airports continue to operate as normal, with families heading off on holiday, business travellers making connections and tour groups arriving daily."
'Some parts are not suitable for travel'
Rodrigues noted that 'while popular cities and resort areas are functioning normally, some parts of the wider region are not suitable for travel'.
"For instance, ongoing conflict means Ukraine remains off limits for tourism, and travel to parts of Russia and Azerbaijan requires particularly careful consideration of official government advice," she explained.
"The growing interest in lesser visited destinations should always be balanced with a clear understanding of the local situation and available support on the ground."
Rodrigues advises to 'keep an eye on the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice before departure and familiarise yourself with the specific risks associated with your destination'.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
Afghanistan – Volatile security situation
Belarus – Significant risk of arrest
Burkina Faso – Threat of terror attacks
Haiti – Volatile security situation
Iran – British nationals at risk of arrest
Iraq – Escalation in regional conflict
Israel – Regional escalation poses security risks
Mali – Unpredictable security conditions
Niger – Rise of reported terrorist and criminal kidnappings
Palestine – Regional escalation poses security risks
Russia – Due to the risks and threats from its invasion of Ukraine
South Sudan – Due to the risk of armed violence and criminality
Syria – Ongoing conflict and unpredictable security conditions
Yemen – Unpredictable security conditions
Insurance policy reminder
It’s crucial not to travel against official advice — doing so will almost certainly invalidate most travel insurance policies.
Many standard policies exclude cover for war, escalating conflict or airspace closures.
"Anyone who is unsure should speak directly with their tour operator and check their insurance policy to confirm the level of protection in they have in place," Rodrigues said.
"This is not a moment for panic, but it is a time for informed and measured decision making."
Interview conducted by Lucy Devine
Anish Vij