Refund unlikely if you refuse to fly to Spain

HOLIDAY-MAKERS worried about terror attacks might not be covered if they refuse to fly, insurers have warned.

A tour operator is only legally obliged to offer a full refund or an alternative holiday if the Foreign Office advises against visiting a destination and Spain has not been put on the Foreign Office’s “no-go” list.

Malcolm Tarling, of the Association of British Insurers, said: “While some travel insurance policies may cover cancellation if the Government advises against it, you may not be covered if you decide against travelling when there is no advice not to do so.”

“Travel insurance will cover any emergency medical treatment needed if caught up in an attack. If you are in, or are planning to visit, an area where an attack has occurred, follow advice from the UK government and, where necessary, talk to your travel agent, tour operator, airline or other transport provider. If you change your travel arrangements, travel insurance can usually be transferred to the new destination.” The Foreign Office said: “The British Embassy in Madrid and Consulate General in Barcelona are in contact with local authorities and supporting British nationals affected by these incidents. There may be restrictions in place; you should follow the advice of the local authorities.”

Easyjet said: “Any passenger not wishing to travel on flights to or from Barcelona in the next 48 hours can change their flight with no change fee.”

Thomson Holidays said: “Normal booking terms and conditions apply for any customers due to travel to Spain.”