Portugal tourism sector warns of storm disruption

Portugal’s tourism sector is warning that Storm Charles could disrupt travel and hotel activity, with possible booking cancellations, postponements and flight disruptions at a time when the government has declared an alert situation. The issue matters for airlines, hotels and travellers as severe weather threatens transport links and tourism operations across the country.

Cristina Siza Vieira, chief executive of the Portuguese Hotel Association (AHP), told ECO that cancellations or delays to reservations are “to be expected”, but said it is still too early to measure the scale of the impact. She said the immediate priority must be people’s safety and compliance with official guidance.

She added that hotels are used to handling adverse conditions and will need to strengthen prevention and safety measures, including following civil protection instructions, reducing risks at their premises and adjusting services and operations when needed. Hotels are also expected to face added pressure in supporting guests whose travel plans are affected.

The Portuguese Tourism Confederation (CTP) said it is particularly concerned about the storm’s impact on the country’s airports, especially possible flight cancellations and wider disruption to airport activity. The industry group said it is in contact with authorities and its members, while urging preventive action and adherence to official recommendations.

Originally published at Eco.pt