Brexit and travel

Like some others, we have been fortunate to spend a few weeks in the winter sun in Spain. As we take our dog with us, we drive all the way.

I have been reflecting on the challenges and difficulties there will be if we leave the European Union.

At present all we need is a valid passport. No visas, no papers, no forward planning, just pack up and go. We drive through passport and customs control with only a polite, ‘have a good trip’. So easy.

We have our European Health Insurance

Card so don’t need to worry about getting ill while being away.

The dog has his own ‘pet passport’ which is a simple check when returning into Britain. However, if we leave the UK without an agreement the pet passport system is likely to be abandoned.

Those thinking of taking their pets abroad are advised to contact their vets four months prior to intended departure.

We read in the press of international criminals being caught which is reassuring. This is the result of the police authorities throughout the EU co-operating and working together to keep us all safe. This will no longer be the case with Brexit.

Thanks to the EU we have free phone roaming rates, I shudder to think what they will be raised to if we leave.

While in Spain we meet many Brits, who live and work there and are very concerned about their future.

UK drivers are also concerned that under a no deal Brexit the UK driving licence may not be recognised. Also, UK arranged breakdown services may not be available in the EU.

Leaving the EU will have a devastating effect on our present way of living and travelling that it is unthinkable.

We must think very carefully before voting so as not to lose all the things that have been taken for granted for decades.

I will be voting to stay in the EU and in the UK which seems the best choice.

Ursula Craig, Cove.