The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) has issued advice to Irish holidaymakers travelling to Barcelona or anywhere else in Catalonia. The advice follows the action taken by Spanish prime minister, Mariano Rajoy, to impose direct rule on Catalonia after the region officially declared independence from Spain last week.
The move by the Spanish Government to sack Catalonian leaders and impose direct rule has sparked fear that there will be civil unrest and violence across Spain in the coming days and weeks. Irish tourists have been warned that it could affect them. However, the ITAA’s Barcelona travel advice advises says that visiting the region should still be safe if they take certain precautions.
Cormac Meehan, President of the ITAA, commented: ‘Further demonstrations are likely to take place in Barcelona and other areas of the Catalonia region. We are advising all tourists in the area to exercise caution. They should:
- Avoid all demonstrations.
- Monitor local media.
- Follow the advice of local authorities.
- Consult with and follow the advice of their travel agent or tour operator.
‘Demonstrations may also cause some disruption and delays to transport services,’ he also advised.
He continued: ‘The ITAA is working with its members and affiliate partners across Ireland to support holidaymakers travelling to the region. The Catalans want to keep their tourism industry open and we are confident that the area will remain safe for Irish people. This is one of the most popular and beautiful areas of the Iberian Peninsula and must remain both open and accessible to the international tourist community.”
Mr Meehan will travel to the region today (Tuesday) with Pat Dawson, CEO of the ITAA. They will meet with local tourism authorities, management and operators to ensure that the area remains open to Irish people and, indeed, all tourists.
The ITAA also recommends that holidaymakers check the Department of Foreign Affairs’ website for further Barcelona travel advice before travelling. They also recommend that people download the Travelwise app, which is designed to help Irish citizens to stay safe and informed while travelling, living or working overseas.
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