Finally, you can start thinking about your summer holiday. The UK government have let us know which countries will be on the green list for travel from 17th May.
These countries are Portugal, Israel, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Brunei, Iceland, Gibraltar, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands and St Helena, Tristan de Cunha, Ascension Island.
Green list countries don't require any quarantine when you get home but will require you to get a test before returning to the UK. You'll also need a test two days after arriving home.
So, off we go?
Well, it might not be that simple. The UK government may allow you to travel FROM these green countries, but you’ll need to check the entry restrictions for travelling into them. For example, entry to Australia is currently closed to most arrivals.
Make sure you check the entry requirements for your chosen country before travelling. You can do this on the UK Gov website.
Turkey added to the red list
Turkey, Maldives and Nepal join the red list on Wednesday 12th May. If you travel from a red list country you’ll need to pay up to £1,750 per person for hotel quarantine for ten days. You can check the list of red countries here.
What about Spain, France and Italy?
Any country not green or red is amber. The UK government would prefer you not to travel, but from 17th May travelling to an amber country will no longer be illegal. You’ll need a period of self-isolation on return and to take several PCR tests.
Booking tips
If you are looking to book a holiday this year, follow our top travel tips to remain as flexible as possible:
- Book a package holiday with ATOL Protection. This will protect your money against the failure of your tour operator.
- Make sure your tour operator will allow you to change dates or cancel for free. Most companies will now offer this flexibility.
- Choose appropriate travel insurance in case you catch COVID and are unable to travel. Look for the COVID cancellation option on the PayingTooMuch.com website
Questions on travel insurance?
If you have any questions about COVID and travel insurance, give our friendly team a call on 01243 784000.
