Are the risks of travelling abroad really worth it?
WITH the UK still under strict lockdown restrictions, some members of the public have experienced feelings of resentment towards the celebrity influencers who appear to be taking advantage of the travel rules and visiting luxurious destinations for “essential” work purposes.
However, similar to how online photos you see don’t reflect real life, the consequences of travelling against Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) advice aren’t so glamourous either.
Here are the risks influencers might not have considered before packing their swimming costumes. Do they have proof that their work is legit? It’s all very well using work as an excuse for a holiday in the sun, but the reality is, those who flout the rules could face serious consequences for doing so.
Some countries require tourists to obtain a temporary working visa in order to legally work there. Therefore, employers must make sure they follow the rules of the country their employee is sent to.
Additionally, anyone who requires emergency medical attention or needs to submit a claim upon their return runs the risk of not being covered if they are unable to provide proof that their trip was essential to their insurer.
Do they have the right travel insurance? UK travellers should only be travelling abroad if they have a legally permitted reason to do so, such as for essential work purposes. As a result, anyone travelling for work reasons must make sure either their employer has arranged adequate cover, or those who are self-employed have appropriate business cover within their insurance policy.
Are they aware of the dangers of travelling against FCDO advice?
Aside from the obstacles of getting the right documents to enter a country, there’s also the fact that the world is currently in the grip of a global pandemic and travelling to countries that the FCDO advises against could be dangerous.
Influencers who require medical treatment in a country that is overwhelmed with Covid-19 cases risk detrimental consequences to their health, let alone not being covered for these costs by their travel insurer.
It is down to each of us to take responsibility for our own actions. We would urge anyone considering travelling abroad during this time to consider if the risks are worth it.
Fiona Macrae,