Posted on Monday, 11 January 2016

The recent attack on the Bella Vista Hotel in Hurghada, in which three were injured, has prompted more concern among Britons over how safe it is to visit Egypt. Tourism in the North African country has already taken a big hit following the fatal Metrojet crash in October, which resulted in the deaths of 224 Russian holidaymakers and crew. Russian authorities believe the crash was caused by an explosive device.

The Metrojet crash prompted the UK's Foreign Office to ban flights between British airports and Sharm el Sheikh, amid concerns over security at the Egyptian airport. This situation is unlikely to change soon.

Given the climate of uncertainty over visits to Egypt, balanced by the desire to enjoy a low-cost winter sun getaway, a number of questions may occur to the would-be Egypt visitor.

How does Bella Vista compare with other attacks?

While the non-fatal attack was terrifying in its own right, there have been a number of far more serious attacks in recent years. The largest of these was the 1997 Luxor attack, which left 62 dead. A series of attacks along the Sinai Peninsula followed in the mid-2000s.

Is it possible to reach Sharm el Sheikh at all?

Not really. Since UK carriers are banned from flying to Sharm el Sheikh, it is very difficult to reach. Overland journeys from other airports are possible, but would hardly be conducive to a relaxing getaway.

Should there be any flights to Egypt at all?

There has been a high threat from terrorism in Egypt for many years – a threat which has not deterred thousands of Britons from enjoying the country's many ancient sites and beach resorts – nearly always without incident. Red Sea resorts along with the Nile Valley and large cities such as Cairo are still considered safe for UK holidaymakers. Only flights to Sharm el-Sheikh have been banned; Hurghada, Cairo and Luxor flights are to continue as normal.

How long will flights to Sharm el Sheikh be suspended?

The ban is unlikely to be lifted in the short term. A number of airlines have tentative dates for resuming flights, but these depend entirely on the UK government. Easyjet have an on-paper date of February 29, British Airways February 13, and Thomas Cook and Thomson March 23. Until perceived security issues at Sharm el Sheikh Airport are resolved to the satisfaction of the UK government, the ban will remain in place.

I have a Hurghada booking, can I change it or claim on my insurance?

Hurghada, Egypt (Aleksei Smolensky/Bigstock.com)

The Foreign Office has warned there was a "a high threat of terrorism” in Hurghada for some time. The UK government is very unlikely to ban flights to Hurghada (given the comparatively minor nature of the attack) so you would not have any automatic rights to cancel without paying a penalty of some sort. Any changes would probably result in the loss of some or all of your money. 'Not wishing to travel' is not an insurable risk.

I had a Sharm el Sheikh booking for February. Can I get my money back?

Holiday firms are offering full refunds on Sharm el Sheikh holidays. Thomas Cook is offering a £30 discount on other holidays booked with the company, while Thomson is offering £50 off another booking – but only for a specific last-minute destinations, including the Canary Islands, the Spanish Costas, Majorca, Cape Verde and Cyprus.

What if I book an April break to Sharm el Sheikh and the flight suspension is extended?

You will be given the same option to cancel or re-book – without financial penalty – if the FO decides the destination is still not safe.

Where else can I go in Egypt for winter sun?

While Sharm el Sheikh is not a realistic option, you can still enjoy some Red Sea sunshine by flying to Hurghada, which is not currently subject to any FO travel restrictions.

More information: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt

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