The Government’s shock decision to collapse the Spanish ‘air bridge’ at the weekend has left around two million holidaymakers at risk of not being covered for cancellation or curtailment claims, should the change in Foreign and Commonwealth (FCO) advice affect their trip. Many would have seen that the 14-day quarantine when returning from holiday has been re-imposed but also the FCO advice has changed. Mainland Spain is no longer a destination which travellers are advised to visit which means that any Brits who travel against the new guidance could risk invalidating their travel insurance.
Rebecca Kingsley, brand manager of consumer awareness initiative travelinsuranceexplained.co.uk said: “The air bridge collapse has sent shockwaves throughout the travel sector. Many travellers rushed back to try and beat the midnight deadline on Saturday but others did not make it in time. They will need to go into quarantine when they return.
“However, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has also advised against all but essential travel abroad to mainland Spain. This is particularly crucial as travelling against FCO advice will invalidate your travel insurance.
“Several travel insurers do offer medical cover for Coronavirus – but at the moment no-one is offering comprehensive curtailment or cancellation cover should things suddenly change at your destination. Travelling uninsured is extremely dangerous if something does happen and you need medical assistance.
“If your travel insurance is invalid you could face medical and assistance bills that could run into thousands of pounds.
“If you’re planning a holiday abroad, there will be many new rules to follow and you may not have the freedoms you are used to when enjoying your holiday. However, remember that no travel insurance policy will cover ‘loss of enjoyment’ of a holiday or to return home early if the holiday isn’t as expected.”
Travel Insurance Explained has a comprehensive guide to everything coronavirus related at: https://www.travelinsuranceexplained.co.uk/news/medical/everything-travellers-need-to-know-about-coronavirus#foreign-office
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