As the world adjusts to the ‘new normal’ in a post-covid world, many of us are needing an escape from the unprecedented events and stresses of 2020. With many of us working from home, a wellness holiday; whether it be a yoga retreat in a relaxing setting; a pampering spa holiday; a detox break to eliminate the toxins which have accumulated over lockdown; or a fitness holiday to raise those endorphins again, is the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate both physically and mentally away from your home office after a long stint in coronavirus lockdown.
However, with government guidelines constantly changing, many travellers understandably have concerns towards current and future holiday plans regarding which destinations are safe to travel and what entry requirements are required.
We’re here to guide you through your concerns with our covid-friendly travel advice so you can have peace of mind before you travel.
Booking your holiday
Where can you go?
Borders are slowly reopening across the world and the UK government are constantly updating the list of countries exempt from ‘all but essential travel’ which can be seen here. It is important to note that many of the destination’s borders are still closed to international travellers and some of the destinations do require self-isolation on arrival in or return from the country.
Do you need to self-isolate on your arrival or return?
Some destinations do require a quarantine period on arrival into the country and the FCO are constantly updating the list requiring travellers to self-isolate on arrival back into England, Scotland or Wales.
Will you need a Covid-19 test to travel?
Some countries might require a negative Covid test to be shown on arrival, while others might test you on arrival instead. Each destination’s entry requirements will vary so it’s important to ensure you seek out the latest FCO advice and health and safety requirements for your destination in advance of travel.
Do you need travel insurance?
Post covid, it’s more important than ever that you take out travel insurance ahead of your holiday that covers illness, medical treatment and medical repatriation. In addition to your insurance, it’s vital to follow all local health guidelines and rules. We recommend speaking to your insurance provider to clarify that COVID-19 is covered by your policy for your destination.
What should you take to the airport?
It’s essential to check if any forms are required to be completed prior to your departure such as health declaration forms or negative Covid tests. Many countries have cancelled their visa on arrival policy so it’s important to check the government's foreign travel advice for information on each country’s entry requirements. Failure to do so could result in being refused travel or denied entry to your destination. We also recommend taking hard copies of all paperwork of your holiday including your insurance and accommodation details for track and trace purposes.
At the airport
Do you need to wear a mask on the flight?
You will need to wear a mask as soon as you enter the airport until the moment you exit your destination airport (unless you are exempt). Every airline is adopting different rules for face coverings throughout the flight, although the general consensus is to wear your mask unless you are eating and drinking, so it's best to check with the airline in advance.
Is air travel safe at the moment?
Aircrafts are equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, the same that is used in hospitals, to ensure that the air through the cabin is replaced every 3 – 4 minutes. Cabin crew and passengers are also required to wear masks from the moment you enter the airport and airlines are advising to put all luggage in the hold and avoid hand luggage to adhere to social distancing rules. Some airlines may be operating a reduced in-flight food and beverage service.
On arrival
What will happen when you arrive at your destination?
There are different processes in place at different airports around the world and you may be required to do the following:
· Temperature screen prior to and/or on arrival
· Complete health declaration and/or locator forms prior to your holiday or on arrival.
· Be asked to provide proof of Covid-19 testing
· Be required to undertake a period of quarantine upon arrival
It is highly advised to check the latest FCO advice prior to travelling to ensure that you have all necessary information to hand.
Attractions
Even if the borders are open, some of the tourist attractions may be closed so we do recommend checking in advance. Information can also be checked on the country’s tourist board.