Manchester Airport has announced new direct flights to Moldova, one of Europe’s least visited countries – but the Foreign Office warns against travelling to a huge part of the country just a few miles away.
On December 17, FLYONE, Moldova’s largest airline, will begin operating direct flights to the city’s capital, Chisinau. The flight will run twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and a one-way ticket will cost as little as £19.
However, despite the new introduction of flights to the city dubbed as a hidden gem, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has advised Brits against travelling to parts of Moldova around 50 miles from Chisinau, due to the Russia–Ukraine war.
The website states: “FDCO advises against all travel to Transnistria. There is a widespread military activity in Ukraine, including close to some Moldovan borders. Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan government.”
Transnistria is a breakaway state that is internationally recognised as part of Moldova. It controls most of the Moldova-Ukraine border.
Chisinau, however, is widely regarded as safe to visit at the moment.
Moldova has an incredible wine heritage that dates back 7,000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest wine producers. It plays an important part in the country’s culture, and each year, National Wine Day is celebrated in Chisinau’s central square.
The country also takes pride in their hospitality. The countryside has a range of family-run bed and breakfasts, rural guest houses and traditional country homes with traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Valeni, a village in Moldova’s countryside was also awarded Best Tourism Village by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
The FCDO added: “FCDO’s ability to offer support is extremely limited and will be more limited if there is military action on or near the Moldova-Ukraine border.
It has also warned that travel insurance could be “invalidated” if travel is carried out against the advice of the governmental body.
Brits who are seeking to travel to Moldova should always check the FCDO for travel advice updates.