Should I book a Spain trip after the recent virus spike?
Q How realistic is it that Spain will be removed from the travel list? Does the government have to give any notice?
Stephanie G
A I imagine that you, like millions of other people with imminent trips to the UK’s favourite overseas country, are concerned about the reports of spikes in coronavirus cases in Spain. In response, some local lockdowns have been springing up in various parts of the nation, most recently Totana in the province of Murcia after an upsurge in infections linked to a single drinking venue, Pub Dubai.
While the Spanish government insists coronavirus infections are under control, after the very severe
national lockdown during the spring months, it is possible that further spikes could arise – perhaps related to incoming tourism from countries such as the UK, Sweden and Luxembourg.
Let me outline the risks that apply to a trip to Spain this summer. Before you go, could the Foreign Office advice change and Spain return to the “no-go” list? That could happen at any time and would take effect immediately, but from what I can see so far that strikes me as unlikely. It may be that the Foreign Office warns against visiting one or more areas or islands. Were that to happen, and you are booked on a package holiday, you would qualify for a full refund.
Next, could Spain return to the “compulsory quarantine” list for your home country either before your departure or during your stay? At present England, Wales, Northern Ireland and latterly Scotland all say returning travellers from Spain do not need to self-isolate for two weeks. Once again, that may change at any time, and it could take the form of rules for specific parts of Spain.
The big two tour operators, Tui and Jet2, say they would not send holidaymakers to a place from which they need to quarantine on return. Other travel firms may not be so understanding. It is possible, but again unlikely, that quarantine could be introduced immediately for arrivals from Spain, thus affecting hundreds of thousands of people who are there at the time.
In short, this is a summer with many logistical risks for holidaymakers. I believe they are worth accepting in return for the rewards of travelling, but many may not agree.