Simon Calder has issued a stark message to anyone planning on going to France, Italy and Spain this summer. The travel expert has urged holidaymakers that planning ahead “could make all the difference”.
The European countries are holiday hotspots for Brits, especially at this time of year. Thousands of families are heading to France, Italy and Spain to soak up the summer sun, unwind and emerse themselves in culture. However, Europe has been battered by wildfires as temperatures have soared across the continent.
Large wildfires have been seen in France, Spain, Portugal, and Turkey. Firefighters have been battling a wildfire in south-west France that covers an area four times the size of Paris, as temperatures are forecast to reach 40°C.
Thousands of residents and holidaymakers have had to flee to the area, with some not allowed home for days as the danger hasn’t passed. While the wildfires continue, many people will have holidays booked in the affected areas.
Travel expert Simon has issued guidance on what to do if you have a holiday booked and are heading to areas of Europe impacted by wildfires.
He said on his Travel Expert with Simon Calder podcast: “Wildfires raging across Europe, they have been all week. Italy, Spain and most profoundly in France, where in south-west France there has been absolute devastation.”
Simon explained that Bordeaux airport has been operating as usual despite the wildfires in the area. When it comes to deciding whether to go on your trip or not, Simon’s co-host Greg Dickinson said that if flights are running, you are not likely to get a refund.
Wildfires have been spreading across Europe (Image: Getty)
Package holidays offer more protection for cancellations, yet some companies allow flexibility for independent bookings. This means you might be able to change your flight or ferry journey to a different date rather than get a refund.
If you do head to areas of Europe that may be affected by wildfires, Simon has a vital piece of advice. He explained that he had spoken with the British Red Cross to understand how people should prepare.
He urged: “Plan your evacuation in advance. The vast majority of people, this isn’t going to happen to you, but work out where you are going to go.
“If you are going to be travelling with a family and doing different things during the day, work out how you are going to coordinate. Have a grab bag with your money, water, medication and passport by your bed.
“Make sure you have plans for a swift getaway, which means you have robust shoes by the bed so you can get out. Make sure your car is pointing towards the direction you want to go. If you have to reverse it, you can lose valuable seconds. Plan ahead.”
Simon added: “It could make all the difference but in the vast majority of cases, you will be fine.”
Large fires have been taking place in France (Image: Getty)
Latest UK government advice for holidaymakers
If you are going to France:
The risk is highest in the south of the country, particularly along the Mediterranean coast, in Corsica, and in areas of the south-west during periods of hot, dry weather.
Check the French weather service’s fire alert map before travelling and monitor local authority advice during your stay. Conditions can change quickly and access to forests, countryside areas and tourist sites may be restricted at short notice.
If you are going to Spain:
Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas. For information on wildfire risk visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET).
If you are going to Italy:
Check the latest alerts and weather forecast and follow advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas and report fires to the emergency services. For information on what to do in the event of a wildfire, visit the Civil Protection Department.