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If you are concerned about the potential effect of Brexit on your European holiday, you are not alone – but consider the ‘Brexit-proof’ aspects of an Brightwater Holidays trip and book with complete confidence. We have, on our doorstep, the most extraordinary continent of historical and cultural wonders, offering myriad unforgettable holiday experiences. Whether you are for or against Brexit, don’t let it stop you from enjoying a spectacular European getaway!
Brexit-proofing… your flights
In the event of a deal, nothing will change during the transition period that takes us to December 2020. Even in the no-deal scenario, the European Commission has advised that UK airlines will still continue to operate flights between the UK and EU. With flights included in your Brightwater Holidays break, your seat is booked and we guarantee not to increase your holiday price even if we end up incurring any extra costs.
Brexit-proofing… your holiday protection
When you book a holiday with a UK travel company or tour operator like Brightwater, belonging to ABTA or ABTOT, it is fully protected under Package Travel Regulations, which ensure that you will be entitled to a full refund if your holiday can no longer run for any reason. There is nothing to suggest, though, that travel plans would be changed or revoked post-Brexit.
Brexit-proofing… your holiday value
Exchange rates are much in the news at the moment, but there has been little material change in the £:€ exchange rate between the start of 2018 (£1 = €1.12) and the start of 2019 (£1 = €1.10). If the value of sterling does worsen though, you are better off with a holiday company that includes more, like Brightwater Holidays. That way, costs will not escalate with currency changes. Your Brightwater Holidays price covers flights and transfers, hotels, all sightseeing, the services of a tour manager and some of your meals. Unlike a lot of other operators’ holidays, there is very little necessity to spend extra in your chosen destination. So, there is no need to worry about the £ being worth less later in 2019 than it is now!
Brexit proofing… your travel documents
The only change to passport advice before 2021 is the recommendation to have 6 months validity from your arrival date. This applies from 29 March 2019. You will not require a visa to travel – the European Commission announced in November that, even in a no-deal scenario, UK travellers can still visit the EU without a visa, providing the same is offered to European citizens visiting the UK. If you have an EHIC card, this will remain valid in the event of a Brexit deal, though ABTA’s recommendation is always to arrange appropriate travel insurance.
For more confidence about European travel in 2019, check ABTA’s advice here and UK Government advice here.
Will data roaming still be available to me?
At the moment, the cost of sending texts, making calls or using the internet on your phone is the same in both the UK and EU. If there is a no-deal Brexit outcome, this is likely to change and we would advise you to contact your service provider for further information.
Travel to other EU countries
The new rules do not apply when travelling to Ireland.
What about the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
This card, which allows any citizen of the EU to access medical help while travelling in another EU country, will only become invalid in the result of a no-deal Brexit. The advice from ABTA is to always ensure you have appropriate travel insurance regardless of your possession of an EHIC card.
Will data roaming still be available to me?
At the moment, the cost of sending texts, making calls or using the internet on your phone is the same in both the UK and EU. If there is a no-deal Brexit outcome, this is likely to change and we would advise you to contact your service provider for further information.
