Don't panic, it's only a volcano

Posted by Anita Brook at 10:33 on 21 Apr 2010

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For a lucky few, the volcanic ash cloud has been a blessing in disguise, the perfect excuse to bunk off work for a little bit longer and keep the tan topped up (while wearing high-factor sun screen of course). I'm wishing I'd planned a trip to the Bahamas to coincide.

While the planes have started moving again, for others, the consequence of this natural disaster (anyone feel like they've been transported into a disaster movie? - where's Tommy Lee Jones when you need him) is a bit more serious. Unable to get home and running out of money, for some of the stranded, it may not be much fun - let's not forget some poor people may be stuck on business trips with their boss! And, in addition to those stuck somewhere else, others are stuck here, with holiday plans ruined.

If you're still stuck abroad:
Speak to your bank - believe it or not, they are run by humans. Some UK banks are waiving fees for money withdrawn by passengers stranded overseas because of the volcano. These include Lloyds, Royal Bank of Scotland, Barclays, HSBC and Santander. If you need an extension on your credit card to help get home, you will have to get this approved by your card issuer. The usual still rules apply, but they are looking at requests on a case by case basis.

If you're stuck here:
In many ways I feel most sorry for you lot... you've planned your holiday, bought a new bikini, starved yourself for a week only to find out, thanks to some unpronounceable volcano, you're not going anywhere. The first thing to do is to call your tour or flight operator - most are being pretty understanding and rearranging flights and hotels where possible. Visit Which? for impartial advice.

If you checked into your flights, you should be covered under your travel insurance - each policy will differ slightly, so make sure your read the small print and check with your insurer. Travel insurance website Insure With Ease is providing information for those affected.

If you can't rearrange your holiday time, why not give England a go? It really has been very sunny recently and there are some beautiful, fun and interesting places to visit. Superbreak provide luxury hotel and spa breaks in Britain and they have some fantastic deals on. Sign up to their weekly e-newsletter and get them delivered straight to your in-box.

The planes have started flying again, but with another volcano predicted to erupt shortly, those UK breaks are looking more and more appealing!

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