Understanding the Challenges of Traveling in Europe This Summer
Whether you’re traveling to relax, explore a new culture, visit friends, or find yourself, dealing with an unexpected emergency is rarely on your dream itinerary. However, as climate change continues to impact weather patterns and more regulations are introduced, traveling in Europe this summer comes with its own set of challenges.
Heatwaves and Wildfires Across Europe
One of the most pressing concerns for travelers this season is the increasing frequency of heatwaves and wildfires. Since June, heatwaves have been affecting various parts of Europe, creating conditions that can lead to wildfires. Spain and Portugal, for instance, have declared a state of alert due to the heightened risk of fires. Temperatures in the Iberian Peninsula have reached up to 40 degrees Celsius, while Greece and Turkey have been battling wildfires throughout the summer, forcing residents and tourists to evacuate.
In addition to wildfires, heatwaves themselves pose significant health risks, especially for older individuals or those with preexisting medical conditions. Travelers should be aware of these dangers and take necessary precautions when visiting affected areas.
Seismic Activity in Southern Europe
Southern Europe has also seen an increase in seismic activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Popular destinations such as Crete, Santorini, Naples, Sicily, and Turkey have experienced tremors this summer. While no serious damage or casualties have been reported, these events can still be alarming for visitors and may require evacuations during a trip.
Tourism officials in Santorini, one of Greece’s most visited spots, estimate that arrivals could drop by up to 25% this year due to concerns over safety.
Preparing for Natural Disasters and Weather Extremes
To ensure a safer and more enjoyable trip, it’s essential to stay informed about local warnings and conditions. Before your journey, research the specific area you plan to visit and be aware of heat alerts, seismic risks, fire danger ratings, and local emergency procedures.
Make sure your mobile phone is set to receive emergency alerts in the region you are staying in. You can do this through your phone settings. Additionally, monitor local news, weather forecasts, and fire updates using official channels like emergency apps and websites.
During a heatwave, take precautionary measures such as carrying extra drinking water and avoiding high-energy outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Follow local advice and be mindful of your health, especially if you are an older traveler or have health conditions.
If your travel plans involve outdoor adventures, consider asking your travel provider if you can adjust your dates or plans if a heatwave is expected. Having the right travel insurance is also crucial. Ensure your policy includes coverage for extreme weather and natural disasters, as this can provide refunds or compensation if your trip is affected.
New Tourist Taxes and Visitor Caps
Many European destinations have introduced new tourist taxes, entry fees, and visitor caps this year. For example, the Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos now charge a €20 cruise passenger levy during peak season, while Athens has implemented a visitor cap at the Acropolis. Barcelona has increased its tourist tax, and Ibiza has limited the number of tourist vehicles allowed on the island.
Italy’s Pompeii and Rome’s Colosseum have also introduced daily visitor caps, requiring advance bookings to avoid long queues. Sardinia’s beaches have similar restrictions, with some requiring reservations via an app.
It’s important to check for any additional fees or taxes before your trip, as they can add to your travel costs. Some fees, like Venice’s entry fee, have already ended, but others remain in place.
Strikes and Air Traffic Control Issues
With increased passenger traffic, strikes are becoming more common and can significantly impact travel plans. In Spain, for example, the General Union of Workers (UGT) has announced strikes at Azul Handling, part of the Ryanair group, from August 15. These strikes will affect multiple airports and occur every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until December 31, 2025.
Air traffic control strikes in France, Spain, and Italy have already caused flight disruptions. To prepare, travelers should check government websites for strike information, contact airlines and airports for updates, and confirm their flight status before heading to the airport. If possible, avoid peak hours and arrive early to minimize delays.
Comprehensive travel insurance that includes disruption cover is also recommended. While airlines are obligated to offer re-routing or refunds for canceled flights, they are not responsible for accommodation or other related losses. Adding disruption cover to your insurance policy can help protect against these unforeseen expenses.
