Britons have been told to brace for travel disruption as strike action is announced in a popular European destination.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) alerted holidaymakers in Belgium to new dates that could spell chaos.
Britons in Belgium should brace for strike action on April 22 and April 29
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Belgium’s upcoming strikes and advice for holidaymakers
Visitors were previously warned by the FCDO that a general strike planned for April 29 “may cause severe travel disruption across the entire country”.
In a fresh update, Britons were told that rail unions plan to strike on April 22 and April 29. This could result in “significant disruption” across the network.
Railway workers will stand against several reforms proposed by the federal government, including raising the retirement age, increasing worker flexibility, budget cuts at the railway, and reforming HR Rail, the legal employer of railway staff, The Brussels Times reported.
Holidaymakers were advised to “monitor local news and check with your travel provider regarding potential delays”.
The FCDO provides dedicated information on strikes and demonstrations on its Belgium ‘Safety and Security’ page.
Strikes and demonstrations in Belgium
Travellers to Belgium face disruption as demonstrations and strikes continue to affect major cities, particularly in transport hubs and around the Schuman area (EU quarter) in Brussels.
The FCDO warned that demonstrations in the Schuman area can affect access to the British Embassy and the British Consulate General.
While most demonstrations remain peaceful, the officials cautioned that “there is a risk of unrest or violence” during protests.
Farmer demonstrations have been particularly disruptive, causing delays on major roads throughout the country.
Strike action is an “ongoing issue that can cause severe travel disruption across the country”, affecting both locals and tourists.
Strikes may be announced or extended at short notice and often coincide with demonstrations.
Travellers should check local news for regular updates on disruptions and follow guidance from their travel providers.
The FCDO recommended that visitors “remain vigilant and move away quickly if there are signs of disorder”.
Useful resources
For information on travel in Belgium
- Belgian Railways (train and metro travel)
- Brussels, Walloon and Flemish (regional public transport)
- HERE map
For international travel
- Brussels Airport Zaventem
- Charleroi Airport
- Antwerp Airport
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Strike action could cause ‘significant disruption’
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Belgium is a beloved European country, known for its idyllic canals, architecture and music festivals – not to mention its world-famous fries, mussels, beer, chocolate and waffles.
However, before visiting the popular destination, it’s important to be aware of the FCDO’s latest travel guidance, including how tourists could be impacted by strikes.
Indeed, British holidaymakers have been plagued by industrial action in Belgium over the last few months.
And it looks like strikes are not coming to an end, with experts warning that Britons could face a long-term travel “nightmare” in 2025.
