Travel guidance and safety rules for France
Jonathan Frankham, general manager at World Nomads, told Express.co.uk that France “remains safe and welcoming for visitors”. However, he warned tourists should be aware of some “specific risks”.
France has seen widespread protests and strikes over the Government’s plan to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64.
The country’s biggest cities, such as Paris, Lyon and Marseille have seen huge protests with some clashes between protesters and police.
Industries affected by strikes include rubbish collection, public transport and air traffic control.
Jonathan said: “France is a very popular destination for British tourists, offering a rich cultural experience and a variety of stunning landscapes to explore. While no travel destination is completely risk-free, France remains a safe and welcoming place for visitors. However, as with any travel, it’s important to be aware of the specific risks that may arise.
“As a travel insurance provider, we always encourage British tourists to be aware of the risks associated with their chosen destination, and France is no exception.
“Risks may include potential terrorist threats, petty crime in crowded tourist areas, and the possibility of transport strikes.
“By staying vigilant, being aware of your surroundings and taking appropriate precautions, travellers can minimise the risk and enjoy a safe and rewarding trip to France.”
Protests could take place at any time and there may not be much notice. Tourists should follow the advice of local authorities and their holiday provider.
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The British Government advises: “Since mid-March there have been spontaneous protests in central Paris and elsewhere in France.
“Protests are likely to take place and could occur with little notice. Some protests have turned violent. The protests may lead to disruptions to road travel.
“There is also ongoing strike action, affecting multiple sectors including transport networks. Coordinated strike action and large-scale demonstrations may be announced for the coming days.”
Industrial action could run for several days so tourists may want to ensure their hotel is centrally located so they can walk or take a taxi if public transport isn’t running.
Jonathan added: “With ongoing nationwide strikes in France, it’s important for British tourists to be aware of the potential impact on their travel plans.
“While strikes can disrupt transportation and cause inconvenience, there are steps travellers can take to minimise the impact on their trip.
“We recommend that travellers stay up to date on the latest information regarding strikes, plan their travel routes in advance, and consider alternative modes of transportation if necessary.
“Additionally, purchasing travel insurance can, depending on your policy, provide some protection in case of trip disruptions caused by strikes or other unforeseen events.”
The terror threat level in France is described as “general” by the UK Government and tourists should be vigilant at all times.
Around 17 million British people visit France every year and the majority of visits are trouble-free.
The UK Government warns that the most commonly reported crime in France is pickpocketing. Tourists should take particular care at public transport stations or around major tourist attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower.
However, a recent study found that the worst country in Europe for pickpocketing was Italy which had the most reviews mentioning theft.
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