Simon Calder has issued a stark warning to anyone planning to visit France, Italy, or Spain this summer, as wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Europe. The travel expert advises that preparing in advance "could make all the difference" for those heading to affected regions.
Wildfires devastate popular holiday destinations
France, Italy, and Spain are top choices for British holidaymakers, especially during the summer months, with thousands of families traveling to enjoy the sunshine and culture. However, the continent has been hit by extensive wildfires, particularly in France, Spain, Portugal, and Turkey, as temperatures soar.
In south-west France, firefighters are battling a blaze four times the size of Paris, with temperatures predicted to reach 40°C. Thousands of residents and tourists have been evacuated, and some have been unable to return home for days as the threat persists.
Simon Calder's advice on what to do
On his podcast Travel Expert with Simon Calder, he said: "Wildfires raging across Europe, they have been all week. Italy, Spain and most profoundly in France, where in south-west France there has been absolute devastation."
Despite the fires, Bordeaux airport has been operating normally. His co-presenter, Greg Dickinson, noted that if flights are running, refunds are unlikely. Package holidays offer more cancellation protection, but some operators allow flexibility for independent bookings, such as rescheduling flights or ferries.
Essential preparation tips
Calder shared crucial guidance after consulting the British Red Cross. He urged: "Plan your evacuation in advance. The vast majority of people, this isn't going to happen to you, but work out where you are going to go. If you are going to be travelling with a family and doing different things during the day, work out how you are going to coordinate. Have a grab bag with your money, water, medication and passport by your bed. Make sure you have plans for a swift getaway, which means you have robust shoes by the bed so you can get out. Make sure your car is pointing towards the direction you want to go. If you have to reverse it, you can lose valuable seconds. Plan ahead."
He added: "It could make all the difference but in the vast majority of cases, you will be fine."
UK government advice for travellers
France: The risk is highest in the south, along the Mediterranean coast, Corsica, and parts of the south-west during hot, dry weather. Check the French weather service's fire alert map and follow local advice, as conditions can change quickly and access to forests and tourist sites may be restricted.
Spain: Stay aware in woodland areas and check the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) for wildfire risk updates.
Italy: Review alerts and forecasts, heed local authority guidance, and report fires to emergency services. For information on wildfire safety, visit the Civil Protection Department.
