Foreign Office issues Portugal travel alert as tourists given stark warning

The UK Foreign Office has issued a travel warning for people heading to Portugal this summer. The alert covers a number of popular tourist destinations in the country

Brits planning a summer getaway to Portugal have been hit with a travel alert, as industrial action threatens to disrupt flights at Portuguese airports. The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning for tourists heading to the sunny destination, including the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Azores, cautioning them about potential delays due to strikes by baggage handlers throughout July and August.

On its website, the Foreign Office advises: “Industrial action by baggage handlers at Portuguese airports from Friday to Monday during the months of July and August may cause delays. If you are travelling over this period, check for announcements and follow the advice of your airline or tour operator.”

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For those jetting off abroad, the Government department offers extensive guidance, with a dedicated page for Portugal that includes additional tips for travellers.

The advice includes: “If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency”.

Meanwhile, holidaymakers bound for Albufeira should be aware of new local regulations, reports Chronicle Live. The town has implemented a Code of Conduct prohibiting indecent behaviour in public areas, with fines ranging from 150 to 1800 euros for those who flout the rules.

The Albufeira regulations for public decorum are cracking down on unruly behaviour, urging visitors to “stop bad conduct”, “respect the locals” and “love Albufeira”. Offences ranging from nudity in public to street drinking could land you with a fine.

Additional measures penalise those found sleeping in public spaces, urinating in the open or spitting on the pavement. Fines kick off at 150 euros, roughly equating to £127.95.

A comprehensive list of the 15 new rules has been published for reference. When planning your trip, it’s crucial to ensure you comply with all entry requirements. Portugal adheres to Schengen area regulations, which dictate passport stipulations:.

For short visits, you can enter Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, under certain travel conditions:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training