Latest news with #ATOL
Edinburgh Live
5 days ago
- Edinburgh Live
Travel expert issues warning to Brits heading to Europe after October 12
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A travel expert has issued a warning to all British passport holders who are planning a trip to Europe from October 12th onwards. Vix Aguilera, who is an ATOL and ABTA protected UK travel agent, took to TikTok to detail changes being made to eGates, which are automated self-service border control systems. "A new EES [Entry/Exit system] is going to apply to all non-EU citizens visiting the Schengen area and basically it will replace the need to queue and get a stamp," she began. The alteration will see travellers instead required to provide facial recognition and fingerprints at a new self-service kiosk. "You will be giving your biometric data upon arrival to the country," Vix explained, reports Bristol Live. "This is then going to be stored on a central database and linked to your UK travel agent advised that the record will remain valid for three years and therefore you only need to carry out the process once when you first enter." Now this is the interesting bit - it's going to be rolled out from October 12th in a phased approach," Vix added." So although every country is within their rights to do it straight away to cut down on the need for extra queues. "She went on to note: "The way they are going to be doing this is by staggering it, so from days one to 29 there's going to be no minimum requirement and after that there's going to be 10% of passengers required to scan etc. " However, according to travel expert Vix, there's no need for immediate worry as airport security staff will be on hand to guide travellers through the new process upon arrival. "You just turn up to the eGates then have yourself directed by staff," she also warned not to mix up these changes with the forthcoming ETIAS - European Travel Information and Authorization System - a new requirement for visa-exempt nationals visiting 30 European countries. "That's not going to be rolled out until the latter end of 2026 - and that will require a pre-travel authorisation," she who will be impacted by the change on October 12? Vix continued: "Obviously if you are travelling from this date, if you are going to a Schengen area, and if you are a non-EU citizen and you are looking to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. "One TikTok user expressed their appreciation for the clear explanation: "Thank you for explaining this so well. I was confused thinking it's the ETS, and since I'm travelling in December, worried that it being new might give me issues, but this is good info to have. "The reason behind these changes? The UK government's website, which provides further details, explains: "EES is designed to improve border security within the EU and its neighbouring countries, and reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area. It will automate border control checks to help the EU stop visitors overstaying. " The statement further explains: "The checks may take a few minutes, so be prepared to wait during busy times. If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area". The countries affected include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Edinburgh Live
5 days ago
- Edinburgh Live
TikTok travel expert warns British tourists of new passport rule coming in days
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Travel expert Vix Aguilera, an ATOL and ABTA protected UK travel agent, has issued a crucial warning to all British passport holders planning European trips from 12th October onwards. In a TikTok video, she detailed changes to eGates, the automated self-service border control systems. "A new EES [Entry/Exit system] is going to apply to all non-EU citizens visiting the Schengen area and basically it will replace the need to queue and get a stamp," she started. The shift will require travellers to provide facial recognition and fingerprints at a new self-service kiosk instead. "You will be giving your biometric data upon arrival to the country," Vix clarified. "This is then going to be stored on a central database and linked to your UK travel guru advised that this record will remain valid for three years, meaning you only need to undergo the process once when you first enter." Now this is the interesting bit - it's going to be rolled out from 12th October in a phased approach," Vix added." So although every country is within their rights to do it straight away to cut down on the need for extra queues, reports Bristol Live. "She continued: "The way they are going to be doing this is by staggering it, so from days one to 29 there's going to be no minimum requirement and after that there's going to be 10% of passengers required to scan etc. " However, according to travel expert Vix, there's no need for immediate worry as airport security staff will be on hand to guide travellers through the new process upon arrival. "You just turn up to the eGates then have yourself directed by staff," she also warned not to mix up these changes with the forthcoming ETIAS - European Travel Information and Authorization System - a new requirement for visa-exempt nationals visiting 30 European countries. "That's not going to be rolled out until the latter end of 2026 - and that will require a pre-travel authorisation," she who will be impacted by the change on October 12? Vix continued: "Obviously if you are travelling from this date, if you are going to a Schengen area, and if you are a non-EU citizen and you are looking to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. "One TikTok user expressed their appreciation for the clear explanation: "Thank you for explaining this so well. I was confused thinking it's the ETS, and since I'm travelling in December, worried that it being new might give me issues, but this is good info to have. "The reason behind these changes? The UK government's website, which provides further details, explains: "EES is designed to improve border security within the EU and its neighbouring countries, and reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area. It will automate border control checks to help the EU stop visitors overstaying. " The statement further explains: "The checks may take a few minutes, so be prepared to wait during busy times. If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area. ". The countries affected include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Edinburgh Live
5 days ago
- Edinburgh Live
British passport holders urged to check important new rule before travelling in Europe
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A travel expert has issued a crucial alert to all British passport holders planning a European getaway from 12th October onwards. Vix Aguilera, an ATOL and ABTA protected UK travel agent, took to TikTok to outline changes coming to eGates, the automated self-service border control systems. "A new EES [Entry/Exit system] is going to apply to all non-EU citizens visiting the Schengen area and essentially it will eliminate the need to queue and get a stamp," she started. The shift will require travellers to provide facial recognition and fingerprints at a new self-service kiosk instead. "You will be submitting your biometric data upon arrival in the country," Vix clarified. "This will then be stored on a central database and linked to your UK travel guru advised that this record will be valid for three years, meaning you only need to go through the process once when you first enter." Now this is the intriguing part - it's going to be rolled out from 12th October in a phased approach," Vix continued." So although every country is within their rights to implement it immediately to reduce the need for additional queues, reports Bristol Live. "She further explained: "The way they are going to be doing this is by staggering it, so from days one to 29 there's going to be no minimum requirement and after that there's going to be 10% of passengers required to scan etc. " But according to Vix, there's no cause for immediate alarm as airport security personnel will be on hand to help travellers navigate the new procedure when they arrive." You just turn up to the eGates then have yourself directed by staff," she Vix warned against mixing up these alterations with the forthcoming ETIAS - European Travel Information and Authorization System - a fresh requirement for visa-exempt nationals visiting 30 European countries." That's not going to be rolled out until the latter end of 2026 - and that will require a pre-travel authorisation," she who will be impacted by the change on October 12? Vix added: "Obviously if you are travelling from this date, if you are going to a Schengen area, and if you are a non-EU citizen and you are looking to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. "One TikTok user expressed gratitude for the clear explanation: "Thank you for explaining this so well. I was confused thinking it's the ETS, and since I'm travelling in December, worried that it being new might give me issues, but this is good info to have. "The rationale behind these modifications? The UK government's website, which offers additional details, explains: "EES is designed to improve border security within the EU and its neighbouring countries, and reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area. It will automate border control checks to help the EU stop visitors overstaying. " The statement notes: "The checks may take a few minutes, so be prepared to wait during busy times. If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area. ". The countries included are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
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The Independent
5 days ago
- The Independent
Don't say goodbye to summer just yet, say hello to sun with TUI
Before we know it, we'll have blinked and summer will be over here in the UK. Despite having already had a few heatwaves, we're pretty lucky if we have more than a few days of consecutive sun. But if the prospect of upcoming colder weather has you feeling a little, well, gloomy, then you can turn that frown upside down with a TUI holiday. Although some holidays can take months of planning, there are always fantastic last minute deals available at TUI. From beautiful long haul trips to once in a lifetime destinations, down to cheap and cheerful getaways to a European beach resort, you're truly spoiled for choice at TUI. And, with 24/7 access to booking online, it's never too late to book your holiday. If you're searching for inspiration of where to visit, then you can find out more online, or, flick through our highlights below. Who knows, it could be you sunning yourself on a beach in Cancun with £300 off your booking, in no time at all. Save up to £300 on your next long haul holiday Live happy with a TUI long haul holiday and get 24-hour support, a 20kg standard luggage allowance, flexible payment options, and ABTA and ATOL protection. But, that's not all that's on offer right now. For holidays between November 2025 and October 2026, you can save up to £300 on your long haul beach holiday. And for an even better saving (we know, we can't believe it either), you can combine your long haul promo code with free kids' places in Florida, or level up your stay with free room upgrades. Riu Cancun For an adults-only getaway that's packed with fun, this beachfront, Mexican hotel delivers. You'll be spoiled with options for sports and activities, and nightlife is right on your doorstep. Located on a stretch of soft white sand, Riu Cancun is within walking distance of the city's famous clubs and bars, while two major shopping malls are just a stone's throw away. Plus, you can currently score 21 per cent off. Book now Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando If you're looking for a budget friendly stay near International Drive, you're in luck. And right now, you can save up to 35 per cent on your booking at the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando. You'll have plenty to do in this motel-style property that's spread across tropical gardens, with pools, entertainment and terraces, plus you'll be just across the road from a huge mall, and close to Universal theme parks and Walt Disney World. Book now Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica With a trio of gigantic pools, beautiful dining choices and its very own private 800-metre beach, Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica will leave you speechless. You may even spot nesting turtles on the sand. All rooms are junior suites with hydro massage tubs, and nearly all have sea views. And, you can experience all that luxury with 26 per cent off at the moment. Book now Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya – Adults Only – by Karisma Margaritaville Riviera Maya by Karisma - Adults Only serves up tropical vibes every day of the year. The hotel is located around half an hour's drive south of Cancun, so while it's rather peaceful, you'll still be near to some top attractions. On site, you can choose from three free-form swimming pools, and have four restaurants and bars to drink and dine in. Book now Book a European getaway In Europe, you can choose from a solely sunbathing holiday on the Spanish coast or near the twinkling Aegean Sea, explore history and architecture in Rome, or live out your Game of Thrones fantasy in the medieval fortresses of Croatia. Some of our favourites Holiday Village Atlantica Rhodes The Holiday Village Atlantica Rhodes is perfect for families who want a mix of relaxation and adventure. On site, you'll find a waterpark (think eight pools, four slides and a lazy river) and an Aerial Adventure course. When it comes to food, you can choose from an American diner, a snack corner, a swim-up bar and an ice-cream parlour. And the fun doesn't stop there, with over 200 activities to choose from for the whole family, including everything from archery to zorbing. Book now TUI BLUE Atlantic Palace The TUI BLUE Atlantic Palace has sweeping sea views and the glorious Mount Vesuvius as its backdrop. The hotel is traditionally Italian in its appearance, with white-brick walls and columned balconies, and even a terrace that looks out towards Mount Vesuvius. The gorgeous lemon tree garden makes for a great Instagram shot, too – just saying. Book now This hotel has more restaurants than any other Sensatori by TUI BLUE resort, which we think is something worth shouting about. TUI BLUE Sensatori Atlantica Aphrodite Hills has a main swimming pool that's spread over two tiers and connected by an infinity edge, and another that is reserved for adults. You'll never be bored at this hotel, with everything on offer from candlelit yoga to comedy nights, and, of course, a special entertainment programme for little ones.
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Daily Mirror
British passport holders urged to do one important thing before October 12
A change is set to be implemented at self-service border control systems later this year, and British passport holders have been issued a warning about what they need to do A travel expert has issued a warning to all British passport holders planning a European getaway from October 12 onwards. Vix Aguilera, an ATOL and ABTA protected UK travel agent, took to TikTok to outline alterations being implemented to eGates, which are automated self-service border control systems. "A new EES [Entry/Exit system] is going to apply to all non-EU citizens travelling to the Schengen area and essentially it will replace the need to queue and get a stamp," she warned. The change will require travellers to submit facial recognition and fingerprints at a new self-service kiosk instead. It comes following a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain. Sharing details of the new change, Vix explained: "You will be giving your biometric data upon arrival to the country. This is then going to be stored on a central database and linked to your UK passport." The travel agent noted that the record will remain valid for three years, and therefore, you only need to complete the process once when you first enter, reports Yorkshire Live. "Now this is the interesting bit - it's going to be rolled out from October 12 in a phased approach," Vix continued. "Although every country is within their rights to do it straight away to cut down on the need for extra queues." She added: "The way they are going to be doing this is by staggering it, so from days one to 29 there's going to be no minimum requirement and after that there's going to be 10% of passengers required to scan etc." The positive news, according to Vix, is that airport security personnel will be available to guide you through the procedure when you arrive. Therefore, for now, you don't need to undertake any advanced preparation. It's important to read up on how the system works beforehand though. "You just turn up to the eGates then have yourself directed by staff," she explained. Vix proceeded to caution, however, that you shouldn't mistake this for ETIAS - European Travel Information and Authorization System - a fresh travel requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to 30 European countries. That's not going to be rolled out until the end of 2026, and it will require a pre-travel authorisation. READ MORE: Family's £4k easyJet holiday 'ruined' as soon as they open hotel room door So, who does the October 12 change impact? "Obviously, if you are travelling from this date, if you are going to a Schengen area, and if you are a non-EU citizen and you are looking to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period," Vix clarified. One TikTok user praised the guidance and commented: "Thank you for explaining this so well. I was confused thinking it's the ETS, and since I'm travelling in December, worried that it being new might give me issues, but this is good info to have." Why is this alteration being introduced? The UK government's website, which offers additional details, explains: "EES is designed to improve border security within the EU and its neighbouring countries, and reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area. It will automate border control checks to help the EU stop visitors overstaying." It adds: "The checks may take a few minutes, so be prepared to wait during busy times. "If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. "You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area." The Schengen area comprises the following countries: Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Italy Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland
