Visiting Cyprus

jone52

Had a holiday planned with Tui to Cyprus in early November.  On August 1st, Cyprus placed UK on Category B list where travellers were allowed into the country but must provide evidence within 72 hours of flying that they have had a negative PCR test.  The appropriate test needs to be carried out privately (NHS may provide the facility but can't guarantee the result availability in time).  The cost for each traveller is around £300.  We contacted Tui to discuss options and the agent we spoke to knew nothing about it.  She even asked us to explain it to her.  Eventually we were told that any changes to our holiday would have to be under the normal terms and conditions even though, at the moment, Tui have cancelled all flights to Cyprus for the next 2 weeks at least.  The balance of the holiday cost is due in the next few days so we regrettably decided to cancel to minimise the potential financial impact.  I feel that Tui's inflexible attitude of reverting to standard terms and conditions was unfair and unhelpful and was horrified at their agent's lack of knowledge and information to guide our responses.  However, the main reason for the post is to alert people to the potential additional cost they need to budget for a holiday in Cyprus at this time.  Tui make no reference as far as I can tell to this issue and are just keen to keep on selling holidays without this information.

bradders1983

You cancelled a holiday yourself that wasnt scheduled to go until November based on current rules?  🤦‍♂️

You have seen how quick rules change.

esc1103

we're due to fly out to Cyprus on 19 Aug. Our holiday company, Sunshine Holidays, have not contacted us explaining what entry requirements into Cyprus are. There's no way will, or should be expected, to pay an additional £900 to gain entry for the 3 of us. Another thing to remember is, if you gain entry and display any symptoms on arrival you will all be quarantined for 1 week at your own expense.

Caz3121

Entry requirements change rapidly. The negative test in advance came into play on Saturday...nobody knows how long it will be in place for
You can keep an eye on the ever-changing situation here https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/international-travel-document-news/1580226297.htm
You will find airlines / agents will have something in the terms and conditions to state that it is the passengers responsibility to ensure that they meet the entry requirements based on the country they are visiting and their nationality

eg Sunshine Holidays state

16. Visa, Passport and Health Requirements

It is your responsibility to check and fulfill the passport, visa, health and immigration requirements applicable to your itinerary. We can only provide general information about this. You must check requirements for your own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies and/or Consulates and your own doctor as applicable. Requirements do change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure.