European vacations and getaways are a top pick for travelers venturing across the water this summer. However, many American travelers may not realize the strife underway in Europe that could negatively impact their travel plans.
Many countries are experiencing mass protests and worker strikes that are crippling their local travel and tourism industries. Delays and cancellations to destinations like France, Spain, and Italy hang in the balance as disgruntled protesters demand changes. With wage disputes, pension reform, and reduced flights all bubbling to the brim, travelers should expect delays and cancellations this summer, according to The Jerusalem Post.
Traveler experts are recommending travelers plan ahead if they intend to travel to certain European countries. Due to expected cancellations and flight delays, travelers should confirm all flights before heading to the airport, allow additional time to check in, and postpone checking out of accommodations until they receive their flight confirmation. Here’s what travelers can expect when heading to Europe to explore this summer.
France
Believe it or not, the Parisian city of love has not been so lovely these past few months. In fact, many cities throughout France have gotten downright grimy as protestors and workers resist the pension reform changes. According to AFAR, many French citizens are upset following the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64.
The bill passed on April 14 and citizens have not stopped fighting back since, leading to major demonstrations in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Back in March, intense protests and clashes between protesters and police disrupted both train and airline services. The mayhem even temporarily shut down the Eiffel Tower.
The US Embassy in Paris has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the city under a “demonstration alert.” With protests seemingly being unpredictable, those visiting France this summer could see delays if the demonstrations trickle back into the country’s travel industry.
Italy
If protests persist in Italy, travelers should definitely expect a delay in visiting the country. Recently, baggage workers and air traffic controllers initiated a 24-hour strike. Airports in Milan, Naples, Rome, Pisa, and Florence were all disrupted by the one-day strike, causing Ryanair to reduce flights.
A national transportation strike will also be taking place in Italy on July 7. Officials are expecting ferry boats, buses, trains, and airport ground crews to be impacted by the strike. Travelers should also expect delays on July 15 when traffic controllers rejoin the strike, according to The Local Italy.
Sweden
There will be multiple strikes in Sweden this summer involving transportation workers. Security contractors will be on strike in July. This will impact airports in Stockholm, Rome, and Gothenburg Landvetter on July 3, July 7, July 10, and July 14, according to The Jerusalem Post. Travelers should also expect disruptions at Stockholm’s Arlanda airport from July 5 to July 6 and also on July 12 and 13.