Maldives 16.04.2021 Transindus
More than a year into travel restrictions the Government Global Task Force has published its findings and announced a new Green, Amber & Red "Traffic Light" system for opening international travel safely and sustainably. Even gevernment ministers & scientific advisors responded well to the news with some very positive comments saying:
"international travel is vital - it boosts business and underpins the UK economy - but more than that, it brings people together, connects families who have been kept apart, and allows us to explore new horizons"
How the 'Traffic Light System' works?
Countries will be divided into three categories: Green Amber & Red.
Green list: If travelling to the UK from one of these, you won't need to quarantine provided you have negative result from PCR test taken shortly before your return flight and take another by the second day of your return.
Amber list: Travellers from these countries will need to self-isolate for 10-days at home, provided you have a negative result from a PCR test taken pre-departure and take two further tests on days 2 & 8 after return. You have the option of early release by taking a test on day 5. Red list: Arrivals from these countries will need to spend 10 days in a 'government managed quarantine hotel', plus have a negative result from a PCR test taken pre-departure and take two further tests on days 2 & 8 after return.
Key dates to look out for?
01 May or there abouts: - We expect to hear details of countries on the Green and Amber lists and possibly some tweaks to the existing Red list.
17 May 2021 – When some travel will resume with international flights hotels/guest houses will open. But, the number of people who can travel together withing the UK will be limited to six from just two households. Scotland and Wales may lift restrictions slightly sooner and Ireland hanging back a little.
21 June 2021 – When all Social distancing rules are likely to be released and group travel resuming at home. Again, Scotland and Wales may lift restrictions slightly sooner and Ireland hanging back a little.
What it means for your holiday plans?
Many Asian destinations have managed infection numbers really well, with early secession of international travel and domestic lockdowns. Life in these countries has returned to near normal in recent months so much so that like us, they are re-introducing international travel with some very thoughtful and interesting protocols in place to ensure they open in a safe and secure manner, with the health and safety of both visitors and local people as the primary concern.
The principal we see emerging is that these protocols will probably here to stay for the foreseeable future and possibly become a part of our new normal, much like the safety scans and checks at airports and hotels introduced following earlier setbacks.
Where can we travel this summer and beyond?
Stimulating staycations in the UK
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