This month, China reopens to tourists for the first time post-Covid, TUI launches a giant winter sun programme, and there’s industrial action planned in the UK and across Europe.
Keep reading to find out more.
China reopens for the first time in three years
After three years of tourists not being allowed to visit, China has finally reopened to tourists. Since 15 March, foreign tourists have been allowed to get visas to visit once again.
This is a big moment as China has been under strict Covid measures for much of the pandemic, and its tourism industry has been hit hard.
Tens of millions of tourists flocked to China before the pandemic, and there’s set to be a lot of travellers visiting again now the country is open again.
Heading to China now it’s open to tourists? Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance.
TUI launches 150,000 more seats for winter 2023
In response to an expected increase in bookings for winter sun at the end of this year, TUI has announced 150,000 more seats for UK customers – their biggest-ever winter programme.
The travel provider focused on North African destinations thanks to their value for money and the guarantee of great weather.
More flights from airports across the UK to destinations like Egypt, Cape Verde, Tunisia, and Morocco are among the added services.
Travel strikes to watch out for in Europe
As well as the UK, a number of European countries are experiencing industrial action that’s set to affect travellers in the coming months.
Security guards are set to strike at Heathrow between 31 March and 9 April. Passport workers in the UK are also set to walk out from 3 April until 5 May.
There are scheduled walkouts by Swissport Handling workers at 17 Spanish airports between February and April. Spanish law says they need to provide ‘minimum services’ while striking, so it’s not yet clear how this will affect tourists.
Protests about the increase in pension age are currently ongoing in France, with tourists advised to avoid travelling there at the moment. The Foreign Office recommends keeping up to date with the news if you’re travelling there soon.
Strikes have been seen in Germany and Italy as well, so it’s worth doing your research before planning travel and again before you set off.
