By now, we will have all heard about the awful events that unfolded in Paris last night.
A lot of people are now wondering if it is safe to travel to Paris right now?
What are the officials saying?
The Foreign Office has issued advice advising British nationals to “exercise caution in public places” and follow the advice of the local authorities. French Government advice to those in Paris is currently to stay indoors.
Trains
Eurostar services have been running to Paris from London St Pancras but there were reports that many seats were empty. Passengers who were booked to travel to Paris but decided against have been offered a free exchange.
Euro tunnel services for cars and lorries from Folkestone to Calais have also been running to schedule.
If you are booked onto a Eurostar train but would like to exchange your ticket, call Eurostar on 03432 186 186 between 9am and 5pm. It has extended minimum check in time from 30 to 60 minutes throughout the day and asks passengers to check Eurostar.comfor further updates before travelling.
Flights
BA has said that flights are operating but may be subject to delay because of enhanced security and that “any customers who do not wish to travel to Paris today, Saturday November 14, will be able to delay their flight to another day in the next two weeks (up to November 28).” See BA.com for more information.
Local transport
According to the Foreign Office 11 stations on Paris Metro lines 3,5,8,9 will be closed today along with bus services crossing the 10th and 11th arrondissements where the attacks were concentrated.
Local attractions and events
Disneyland Paris has announced that it will be staying closed on Saturday following the terrorist attacks. In a statement it said the decision had been taken “in support of our community and the victims of these horrendous attacks”.
The rock band U2 has postponed its concert planned for Saturday night. The group said they would reschedule it to take place “at an appropriate time”. They added: “We hope and pray that all of our fans in Paris are safe.”
Meanwhile sporting fixtures in Paris area cancelled throughout the weekend.
Can you cancel your trip or return early?
You can, but you will have to pay any extra costs you incur. Travel companies are not obliged to offer free cancellation or repatriation unless the FCO advises against travel – though some are doing so for outbound travel to Paris today only.
You are normally liable to honour any hotel bookings unless there is s free cancellation clause. Some hotels may allow you to postpone your booking to another time however.
Travel insurance normally excludes costs associated with terrorist action.
:: The Foreign Office says those concerned about British nationals caught up in the attacks should call 020 7008 0000.
:: Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs says anyone concerned about Irish nationals caught up in the attacks should call 01 408 2000.
