The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for France as protests and local curfews threaten to disrupt trips across the country. While it has not advised against travelling to France, it warns that demonstrations can happen at short notice and escalate into violence.
What the Foreign Office says
France remains open to tourists, but visitors are advised to take extra care while protests continue. The Foreign Office says demonstrations, political gatherings and marches can take place with little warning. While most are peaceful, some can lead to clashes and disruption.
Its advice states: "Stay away from areas with large crowds or a significant police presence, and follow the advice of police and local authorities." Travellers are also advised to keep up with local news and follow instructions from French authorities, as curfews and other restrictions could be introduced at short notice in affected areas.
Disruption to travel
People travelling to France over the coming days could face delays on roads and public transport as demonstrations take place. Flights, ferries and trains are expected to run as normal, but travellers should check with their airline or train operator before setting off in case of changes.
Drivers could also encounter road closures, blockades at petrol stations and long queues at motorway toll booths. Visitors heading to Paris should be prepared for additional security measures around popular tourist attractions, which could affect access to some areas and certain hot spots.
Anyone with accommodation booked in a city affected by protests may also want to contact their hotel before travelling, particularly if they are planning to go out in the evenings.
Curfews in place
Several French cities, including Paris, Bordeaux, Nice and Saint-Laurent-du-Var, have introduced curfews following recent protests and unrest. In Paris, a curfew is in place from October 19 to October 26, running between the hours of 11pm and 6am.
Nice and Saint-Laurent-du-Var have introduced temporary curfews for under-16s who are not accompanied by a legal guardian, running between 9pm and 6am. In Bordeaux, under-16s who are not accompanied by a legal guardian are also subject to a curfew between 10pm and 7am, from October 20 to October 26.
The Foreign Office advises that local curfews can be introduced at short notice, so it is best to check the latest travel announcements before setting off.
Impact on holiday plans
The Foreign Office has not advised against travelling to France, meaning cancelling a trip because of concerns about the protests may be treated as a personal decision rather than a necessary cancellation. As a result, holidaymakers may not be entitled to a refund through their standard travel insurance if they decide not to travel.
Anyone considering cancelling should check their booking terms and conditions and speak to their travel provider and insurer to understand their options. The Foreign Office also advises travellers to arrange suitable travel insurance that covers their planned activities, itinerary and potential emergency expenses.
