Europe Travel Is Extremely Hot—Tips For Surviving Charon’s Heatwave
As heatwaves sweep Europe, Sevillians take refuge in the Plaza de Espaa fountain.
This summer, Americans are travelling to Europe, but southern Europe is experiencing its second heatwave in as many weeks. While it is simpler to manage extreme heat in our homes, this is not the case while on vacation, where access to air conditioning and water resources is limited. Here are some helpful suggestions for beating the weather.
This Summer, Americans Are travelling Up To One Hundred Percent More Than Last Summer.
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August and September are expected to be busy months for U.S.-to-Europe travel, with the top five international departure destinations being London, Rome, Athens, Paris, and Milan (Cancun, Toronto, and Montego Bay are lower on the list).
In August, flight bookings were up 78% compared to 2022, and in September, international flight bookings will increase by 100% compared to 2022. In August and September, U.S. travellers will spend an average of 13 days abroad.
Tips for Surviving Europe’s Current Charon Heatwave
Local authorities and tour guides across Europe have provided the following advice to help travellers navigate the current heatwave, known as Charon (named after the ferryman who transported spirits to the underworld in Greek mythology):
Remember that a one-minute delay on the first flight of the day will result in a four-minute delay by the end of the day. To avoid delays, it is best to be on the first flight of the day, or at least to arrive on time.
A delay on your trans-European flight can easily cause delays for everyone else.
Unless a state of emergency is declared in the country you visit, it is unlikely that you will be compensated for heatwaves, nor will you be reimbursed if you opt not to travel. According to Lonely Planet, there are add-ons that cover extreme heat, and many policies cover heat-related medical emergencies and ailments, such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip interruption, as you may be reimbursed if extreme heat prevents you from going on a planned excursion.
According to TripIt, the 3rd and 4th of August and the 1st and 2nd of September will be the busiest days for international air travel, vehicle rentals, and key collection this summer.
If you are unable to avoid these dates, you should arrive mentally and physically prepared with downloaded music and programs, as well as medication, in case of delays.
Buy tickets in advance and visit attractions before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m., although in some European locations, such as the Acropolis in Greece, lines are already quite long at 8 a.m.
The Acropolis is best visited on Saturdays, when cruise ships are not in port nearby.
Dress appropriately, with hats to shield from the heat and rubber-soled shoes to prevent sliding on the uneven, hot floors, when visiting sites with stone or marble flooring.
Inquire with your operator or accommodation prior to departure about the current measures in effect in your European region and adjust accordingly. There may be strikes, water restrictions, and even a map to track forest fires in France.
Pay close attention to the media reports of the country you’re visiting as well as your Foreign Office’s recommendations. There are threats of a French air traffic controller strike, and you should monitor the progress of any conflagration in your region.
Close the windows and shutters during the day and open them at night in your rental property.
Wet your face and body during the day with showers or wet towels, and remain indoors as much as possible between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., taking a nap if necessary, to conserve energy for when the sun is at its weakest.
Avoid vigorous activities, with the possible exception of water-based activities.
Take cash with you when you go out, as you may need to purchase water from establishments that do not accept credit cards, or the lines at abms may be excruciatingly lengthy and unshaded. For example, European market stalls typically do not accept credit cards, so you should arrive prepared.
Bring as much water as you can carry, and apply sunscreen frequently.
Remember that in Europe, regardless of where you are, you can contact emergency services by dialling 112 if you observe a fire or require immediate assistance.
