Is it safe to travel to Majorca and Ibiza? Latest coronavirus advice as Spain goes into lockdown
SPAIN has been locked down with flights and holidays cancelled, shops and restaurants closed and people warned to avoid leaving their homes unless essential.
With the lockdown also affecting the Balearic Islands, here is everything you need to know if heading to Majorca, Menorca or Ibiza.
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Is it safe to travel to the Balearic Islands?
The UK government advises against all but essential travel to Spain as the country has declared a state of emergency – the first time in 10 years.
The current advice states: "The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises against all but essential travel to Spain.
"Spain declared a State of Emergency (‘Estado de Alarma’) on March 14, which introduces a series of measures including significant restrictions on movement throughout the country in response to the coronavirus outbreak."
The latest advice affects all of Spain, including the Balearic Islands, with public gatherings banned and all shops apart from those selling food or essential items closed.
People are warned to avoid going outside unless for essential items or for work, with public transport services being reduced.
Majorca has confirmed 55 cases of coronavirus, while Menorca has three and Ibiza has two - click here on this
Over the whole of Spain, there are now more than 8,000 cases, with nearly 300 deaths caused as a result of the virus.
The highest number of cases have been reported in the region of Madrid, with over 4,000 people infected.
Can I cancel my holiday to the Balearic Islands?
Brits who have booked a package holiday to the islands will be refunded, as tour operators in the UK are ATOL-protected.
Flight-only bookings are not protected, and you are unlikely to get a refund - although airlines including easyJet, Ryanair and BA are allowing passengers to move their flight dates free of charge.
If you are having trouble getting through to your airline for a refund, we've explained what to do here.
Independent hotels are not even required to refund money in this instance, so if you have paid in advance and choose not to turn up then you will lose your money.
If the hotel is a large chain, it could be worth asking to change your stay to another location or delay your trip but they are under no obligation to grant this.
Holidaymakers are advised to check with their travel insurance providers to see if there is something they can do, but that is also unlikely.
We explain everything you need to know if you want to cancel your holiday.
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