Britons in Spain warned as severe rail disruptions likely to spur travel turmoil in February
Only 75 per cent of services in Madrid will run as usual
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Britons travelling to Spain could be hit by severe travel disruptions following a string of train strikes scheduled throughout February.
The walkouts, announced by the workers’ unions, have already caused the cancellation of hundreds of trains this month so far.
The train operator Renfe has warned passengers to check their journeys on the company’s website ahead of travel after the first industrial action began on Friday 9th February
The strike resulted in a 23-hour stoppage that led to the cancellation of 310 long and mid-stance services.
Trains will face disruptions this month
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Further rail strikes forecast over the coming weeks could cause daily disruptions for tourists travelling long distances.
The nationwide stoppages are expected to run through February, affecting transport on the 12th, 19th and 26th.
Authorities have announced a skeleton service will operate as usual to reduce the number of cancellations.
The strikes are likely to affect traffic throughout the country.
The strikes stem from grievances over working conditions, following the introduction of a 35-workweek and changes to income categories.
Commuter trains in Madrid will see 75 per cent of their usual service run during peak times.
Travellers affected by the disruptions are entitled to alternative tickets for rescheduled journeys and reimbursements or to select alternative services.
It comes as holiday firms have reported the strongest booking numbers from holidaymakers since before the pandemic, with Majorca emerging among the most popular destinations.
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British tourists have been warned to check their journeys ahead of travel
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Advantage Travel Partnership, which represents several travel agents across the UK, recorded its busiest day for booking ever on January 13th.
The Foreign Office issued a warning to travellers in January after the holiday hotspot reintroduced face mask requirements when entering certain buildings and health centres.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development issued advice to travellers, saying: “Due to an increase in respiratory infections such as flue and Covid, you may be required to wear a face mask when using healthcare facilities such as doctors surgeries, hospitals or pharmacies.
"Specific rules on the use of face masks may vary by region.”