TUI has extended its suspension of holidays to Sri Lanka - even though the UK Government has lifted its advice against travel to the country. The Foreign Office change came just 24 hours after the UK's biggest tour operator confirmed it was cancelling holidays to the destination until September 11 at the earliest.
The TUI bulletin stated: Due to the ongoing political and economic instability in Sri Lanka, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) have advised against all but essential travel. As a result, we’ve unfortunately had to cancel all holidays to Sri Lanka departing up to and including September 11, 2022.
"We will be proactively contacting all impacted customers in departure date order to discuss their options. Please note this advice does not apply to customers transiting through Sri Lanka’s international airport.
"We will continue to monitor the situation and update customers should there be any further updates. We would like to thank our customers for their understanding at this time."
TUI holidays to Sri Lanka were initially suspended in May and the cancellation of the tour operator's programme to the destination has continued throughout the summer. However, despite official travel advice being eased, Sri Lanka is still experiencing problems.
The Foreign Office (FCDO) update came as the government on the Indian Ocean island confirmed a long-running state of emergency alert would expire on Saturday. It warned: "The major shortage of fuel – diesel and petrol – is affecting transport, businesses and emergency services. Hospitals and other medical services such as ambulances may be affected by shortages. There are daily power cuts due to electricity rationing.”
It added: “A state of emergency, currently in place, is due to expire on August 27, 2022. Protests about the economic situation, have led to violence against peaceful protesters in recent months, resulting in injuries and loss of life.
“Tear gas and water cannons have been used to disperse protesters. Protests, demonstrations, roadblocks and violent unrest could occur at short notice. Curfews and emergency regulations may also be imposed.”
The FDCO temporarily relaxed its advice for visiting Sri Lanka in June. But advice against all but essential travel was reinstated as a state of emergency and nationwide curfew was introduced a month later.
Travellers have been urged to obtain appropriate travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover.
For more information on TUI holidays, check here.
