The UK Foreign Office has updated its advice and issued a warning to people travelling to Spain. On Friday (October 28), the government department added a new alert to anyone visiting the EU country. It comes amid a number of protests taking place in Spain.
Last week, people took to the streets in Madrid amid the worsening cost of living crisis, with the thousands taking part calling for increased wages and pensions in line with inflation.
A separate pro-independence demonstration in Barcelona on Thursday saw activists block the city airport and major roads as government ministers arrived to meet Catalan officials. Rail services were also disrupted.
The Foreign Office said that the Barcelona independence demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches may take place in Spain with little or no warning, particularly in cities. You should follow the advice of police and local authorities. While the vast majority of demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of isolated incidents of unrest or violence. If you’re in and around areas where demonstrations are taking place, remain vigilant and move away quickly if there are signs of disorder.
Earlier this month, the travel rules for Spain were eased as the travel industry tries to get back to some form of normal following a number of COVID-19 lockdowns. As of October 21, UK arrivals are no longer required to:
show proof of being fully vaccinated
you are no longer required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test
you are no longer required to show proof of having recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months
you are no longer required to complete a health control form prior to travel.
Tags: Spain, UK Foreign Office