Q&A
We understand that Pilgrims will have a lot of questions about Lourdes 2022, especially as we have not been to Lourdes since the pandemic started, or since Brexit occurred. This page will therefore be populated with any questions that we receive, as well as the answers - as and when they are available.
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Please feel free to submit any questions via the Contact Us page.
To return to the Lourdes 2022 page please click here
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The Q&A's are organised into categories - you can either tab down through all of the questions, or alternatively click on the quick links below to go straight to a specific category.
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Category Quick Links:
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Pilgrimage General
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Will the Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage be going ahead in 2022?
We certainly hope so! The current position is that a Pilgrimage will go ahead if circumstances allow it. The Pilgrimage Committee is therefore planning on that basis and the decision has now been made to formally begin preparations and for the Tangney Tours package to be advertised.
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Which Tour Operator will be providing the Pilgrimage package?
In 2022 Tangney Tours have been asked to provide a Pilgrimage package.
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Is it possible that plans could change?
Yes. As mentioned above the decision has already been made to plan for a Pilgrimage. This is important as we have to to allow enough time to let people know and for the Pilgrimage to be organised. However, the COVID-19 virus can be unpredictable and there is always a possibility that circumstances could change. The situation will be monitored and it may be necessary to respond to circumstances in order to keep everyone safe.
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Pilgrimage Travel Package
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When will I find out the cost of the package?
Tangney Tours have provided a travel package. You can pick up a link from our Lourdes 2022 page.
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COVID-19
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Will restrictions be in place for the Pilgrimage as a result of COVID-19?
Whilst it is difficult to predict what will happen in the future, there are restrictions in place just now and it is likely that there will be restrictions and mitigations in place if/when we travel. As always any measures will be designed to comply with the law and and related guidance in the UK and France. For example, mitigations may include face coverings, vaccinations, distancing, 'bubbles', isolation protocols, hand hygiene, and CVOVID-19 testing.
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What are the COVID-19 rules for travel to France?
Currently French rules stipulate that visitors must be vaccinated against COVID-19 (if eligible for vaccination) in order to enter the country, and proof of vaccination must be provided. Proof of a negative PCR test taken within 24 hours of departure (over 12 years old) is also currently required and this rule may still be in place in July. This will remain under review as restrictions may change.
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Travelling to France
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What about Brexit?
Initial discussions with our Travel Agent and with other Lourdes groups would suggest that there will be additional requirements this year due to Brexit, such as new paperwork. Tangney Tours will be advising us further on this and they will ensure that you are kept informed of the situation.
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Do I need a VISA?
The UK Government website lists current rules and these stipulate that it is possible to travel to France without requiring a visa for trips of up to 90 days in any 180 day period.
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Will there be any changes at the Airport in France?
At Border Control it may be necessary to queue in a separate channel from EU residents, show proof of accommodation, insurance, and adequate funds (at least €65 per day) for the trip. There are also limits on the types and volumes of goods that can be taken into France.
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Travelling back to the UK
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Are there any restrictions when returning into the UK.
As well as the rules for France, travellers will also have to comply with the regulations that are in place for returning to the home country. The current rules relating to Scotland are:
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Proof of vaccination
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Complete a passenger locator form
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We will be guided further on any requirements by Tangney Tours.
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For any pilgrims travelling from Lourdes directly back to another nation of the UK - the rules are detailed here
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