Travel news
The crisis in Ukraine has rightly raised concerns about any imminent travel plans you might have for Eastern Europe. And with no immediate sign of the conflict abating, what is the guidance on holidays to neighbouring countries? Here’s everything you need to know.
Poland
In 2019, Poland recorded 35.7 million tourist arrivals, according to the Statista Research Department, an increase of over 18 million arrivals since 2006. As Covid restrictions begin to relax globally, it was hoped those figures could be resumed. But while the crisis has put those hopes in doubt, aside from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and part of Moldova, there are currently no UK government warnings against visiting any of the countries in Eastern Europe, meaning at this point there’s no need to alter travel plans.
Lithuania
Revered for its pristine medieval architecture, Lithuania’s second city, Kaunas, is looking forward to a busy year as the European Capital Of Culture 2022 (shared with Esch-sur-alzette in Luxembourg and Novi Sad in Serbia). More than 4,000 events and festivals have been planned to attract tourists throughout the year. But organisers are watching events in Ukraine nervously.
Travel insurance
Varying global restrictions relating to Covid-19 have made it imperative to have good travel insurance – now even more so.
Travel insurance company battleface (battleface.com) specialises in bespoke policies to a mixture of both classic and more unusual tourist destinations, and warns against taking out a “one size fits all” policy.
Countries to avoid
For anyone who does have future holidays booked in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and part of Moldova – where the FCDO currently advises against all travel – many insurers and tour operators are offering refunds or the opportunity to book travel at a later date.
Useful websites
To keep up to date with the latest travel advice, the FCDO is the best resource (gov.uk/foreigntravel-advice). battleface has also created a travel tool featuring up the latest information on global travel restrictions and requirements. Visit battleface.com/en-gb/travel-tool.