By Emma Ryan
AS devastating wildfires continue to sweep across Rhodes, two Donegal travel agents have issued advice to anyone who has been affected by the fires.
A lengthy heatwave and temperatures reaching over 40 degrees have resulted in an outbreak of fires across islands in Greece, with the blaze in Rhodes leading to more than 20,000 people being evacuated.
Evacuations were ordered in south Rhodes as thousands of people, mostly tourists, were moved in buses and boats out of the path of the raging fires.
Other Greek islands are now reporting similar problems, including Evia and Corfu, and evacuations are also being carried out.
The Greek islands are a popular holiday destination for many Irish people and Emma McHugh, Manager of Atlantic Travel said their holiday suppliers are working hard to support holiday makers who may be impacted.
She said flights are being flown out empty to repatriate guests home.
“The suppliers we use for Rhodes have been really great with options for clients who are due to travel this week. Options of full refunds or a holiday move have been offered.
“We have been in touch will all our clients travelling and their safety is paramount. The northern part of the island is operating as normal but those who were booked to stay in hotels in the south are the people who have been moved to temporary alternative accommodation.
“Both TUI and Jet2 have increased their presence on the ground and are looking after all guests currently effected by the situation,” said Ms McHugh.
As it is an evolving situation, guidance is in place until July 30 and will be monitored and updated in due course.
Carolyn Davis of Liberty Travel said the travel agent has not been impacted as they currently do not have any clients in the area.
However, some people are booked to go next month but they are not going to the affected areas.
Ms Davis said, “We speak to the tour operators every day and they are very busy this week changing bookings for immediate departures.
“Anyone who books with us, has our 24/7 emergency number, and can reach us at any time.
“However, the fires do not seem to have dissuaded people from travelling this summer but most of our enquiries are for Spain, Portugal, Italy, Canaries and cruises.
“We are very busy with late enquiries,” said Ms Davis.
The travel agents have advised anyone who is impacted by the wildfires to stay connected with the tour operator and travel agent and always follow the local government guidelines.
Holiday makers are also advised to keep a copy of your passport and travel insurance on your phone or an electronic device – make sure the device is fully charged and mobile phones are on roaming.
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