People travelling to Portugal this Easter should be aware of impending strike action after the Foreign Office issued new travel advice.
Authorities are urging Brits to prepare for travel disruption when arriving and leaving the holiday hotspot due to industrial action by airport workers. Portuguese immigration and Border Service (SEF) staff will strike over the Easter weekend, from April 6 - 10.
Travellers should allow for extra time before flights to pass through border controls and follow any guidance provided by travel operators.
There have also been separate updates made to Portugal's health and safety advice, which concern beaches, face masks and forest fires.
A statement on the Foreign Travel Office (FCDO) website published on Monday read: "Between 6-10 April there may be travel disruption due to Industrial action by Portuguese immigration officers.
"If you are travelling over this period, allow additional time to clear border control when entering and exiting Portugal. Check for announcements and follow the guidance provided by your airline or tour operator."
Members of the Union of SEF’s investigation and surveillance are walking out until agreements can be met over SEF restructuring.
The Foreign Travel Office has also issued fresh advice on the following areas.
Forest fires
As well as strikes, the FCDO also states that there is a heightened risk of forest fires in Portugal, with some parts of the country already classified as high risk. Those travelling to Portugal should familiarise themselves with local safety and emergency procedures,
Causing a forest fire is a criminal offence, so it is important to remain vigilant and follow advice of Portuguese authorities.
Beach safety
Advice has also been updated on beach safety, as "deaths by drowning occur every year on Portuguese beaches and in swimming pools."
Beachgoers must respect the lifeguards, listen to their instructions and pay attention to warning flags. The red flag indicates danger: do not go into the water. The yellow flag is cautionary: you can walk in the water, but you cannot swim.
Take care when walking close to the water’s edge especially along unsupervised stretches of beaches. Waves can be unpredictable and have a strong undertow. Don’t swim at beaches that link to/from rivers, or those without lifeguards, or dive into unknown water as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death.
When swimming, make sure to look out for signs warning of cliff erosion. Falling rocks are a hazard, particularly in the Algarve, and fines can be issued to those who ignore warnings.
Madeira and face coverings
The government body has also updated safety advice for anyone visiting Madeira.
While Covid-19 restrictions have officially lifted in Portugal, those visiting Maderia will still need to wear masks in certain settings.
The regional health authority recommends the use of a face covering in medical facilities, retirement and nursing homes if you have been diagnosed with a respiratory illness.
The region is also known for its narrow footpaths, called "levadas" and walking them can be challenging.
The FCDO advises to only walk on levadas that suit your fitness level. If you're planning a day out in nature, wear suitable clothing and to leave details with your accommodation of where you are going - in case of an accident.
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