Americans planning to visit France or cross the English Channel during the May Day weekend should brace themselves for potential disruptions as French workers continue to protest against pension age increases. Adding to the travel chaos, a Strike by the UK Border Force on April 28 is anticipated to exacerbate difficulties for travelers attempting to cross the Channel at the beginning of the long weekend.
The U.S. Department of State has issued updated travel advice for France, noting that trade unions have announced large-scale demonstrations and coordinated industrial action on May 1. Multiple sectors will be affected, including transport networks. Industrial action may start the evening before the Strike day and last for several days.
Travelers are advised to monitor the media, check with operators before traveling, avoid demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities. Protests in central Paris and other parts of France since mid-March have sometimes turned violent and could lead to disruptions in road travel.
Moreover, the UK Border Force Strike may cause travel disruption for those entering the UK on April 28. Delays are expected when traveling from France, including Calais, Dunkirk, and the Channel Tunnel. Travelers are urged to check with their travel providers before setting out.
Eurostar has updated its website to warn customers of ongoing Strikes in France since March 7, with new mobilization days possibly announced at short notice. The company will update its website and contact affected customers if timetable changes become necessary due to the strikes.
