Pope’s Death To Cause Travel Disruption

Pope Francis died yesterday after suffering a stroke, despite making a public appearance just hours before. The 88-year-old pontiff recently sent weeks in hospital suffering from double pneumonia.

In an interview with www.news.com.au, Angus Kidman, travel expert at Finder, said Aussies planning a trip to the Italian capital should expect an increase in flight prices.

“We’ll definitely see an increase in flight prices to Rome and to Italy over the next few weeks, as the faithful flock to pay their respects and potentially to see the announcement of the new Pope,” Mr Kidman told news.com.au.

“While we’re not yet in the European summer, scoring a last-minute bargain will be tricky. We know 13 per cent of Australians are planning a European trip this summer already.

“Travellers looking to save should consider flying elsewhere in Italy, or even flying to France or Switzerland and getting a train service from there. But we’d expect crowds with those options as well.”

Nine days of official mourning will also see access to the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica restricted. Restaurants and shops will also likely close as a mark of respect with millions tipped to pour into the city to also pay their respects.