UK Travel Corridors: The New Countries Exempt From Quarantine
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As the temperature is beginning to turn colder and the days are getting shorter, we are being exposed to less sunlight and natural vitamin D, which helps power the immune system. Viruses are known for transmitting a lot faster when it’s colder outside, than in the summer months. Therefore, not only is the cold and flu season approaching, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases are starting to pick up again in Europe.
Now more than ever, it is so important that we take extra precautions, for the safety of not only ourselves, but those who are more at risk than others. From mandatory masks in public places and the regular use of hand sanitiser and washing our hands, to staying at a 1metre plus distance away from strangers and the rules of a group of six, the UK’s travel corridors list has been continuously updated and revised, meaning there are now more countries where you will have to quarantine when you arrive back in the UK.
Click here to find out more about the entry requirements and government regulations.
Recent additions to the UK’s quarantine list
If you are arriving back into England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland from the following countries MUST go into self-isolation for two weeks (14 days):
Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
France
Italy (will be added on Sunday 18 October 2020)
Netherlands
Slovenia
Spain
Switzerland
Turkey
Once arriving back into the UK, whether you are a British national or not, or whether you are required to quarantine, you will be required to fill in a “passenger locator” form. Please be aware that you must provide a UK address on this form, otherwise the government will arrange accommodation at your expense.
If you are required to quarantine upon your arrival in the UK, you must not do the following for 14 days:
Use any sort of public transport or taxi to reach your destination on arrival in the UK, as well as once at your destination.
Go to work, school, or public areas.
Have visitors except for essential support.
Go out to buy food, or other essentials, if you can rely on others.
Although there are many more countries that have been added to the quarantine list, there still remain a few gorgeous locations that are on the UK Travel Corridor list where you will not be required to self-isolate upon your return to the UK!
Please note that these countries may be subject to change, therefore keep up to date with government guidance and regulations.
Cyprus
As the COVID-19 cases are pretty low, Cyprus has been exempt from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice against all but essential international travel. Therefore, you will not have to self-isolate when returning back to the UK.
Known as the island of love and home to Aphrodite’s mythical birthplace, delve into Cyprus’ rich and eclectic culture and history this 2020. Boasting some of the most idyllic landscapes, explore its World Heritage sites (anything from ancient tombs and palaces, to Roman mosaics and archaeological sites) and tantalise your tastebuds with the local Cypriot cuisine, Meze, a decadent feast of small dishes; creamy hummus, olives, kebabs and more! This saucepan-shaped island truly is a magical place to discover. From the grey sand dunes of Limassol, to incredible wine regions and the magnificent national park of Cape Greco, the characterful towns, natural wonders, and breathtaking waters are all waiting to be discovered.
What to expect upon arrival:
Please be aware that you must provide a negative coronavirus test obtained 72 hours before travelling to Cyprus, to ensure entry into the country. It is advised that you arrange to do this privately rather than through the NHS. Test results can either be in the form of an SMS or an email, but must include the date from when it was taken.
All travellers to Cyprus must also complete a Cyprus Flight Pass before travelling. You will also have to upload your test result onto this flight pass within 24 hours of your departure to ensure entry. If necessary, you may also need to provide your test appointment letter. Travellers are required to hold the Cyprus Flight Pass in either a hard copy or electronically, as you will be asked to present it prior to boarding as well as at immigration on arrival.
The use of masks is also compulsory in most indoor public spaces. Failure to comply with this requirement means you may be subject to a €300 fine.
Please be aware that this information may be subject to change. Keep up to date with the travel news if you are planning to travel abroad!
Greece
Since last week's announcement on October 2nd, mainland Greece remains on the UK’s Travel Corridor list. However, if you are travelling back from any of the following locations in Greece, you must self-isolate. If you are not travelling to the following locations, then you will not be expected to quarantine when returning to the UK: Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Lesbos, Thinos, Serifos and Zakynthos.
A country like no other, the plethora of iconic ruins, World Heritage sites and fluttering magical towns will truly steal your heart in Greece. Most shops, cafes, restaurants and bars have now reopened to the public with a limited capacity — with social distancing measures put in place and no more than six people at a table (excluding children).
What to expect upon arrival:
Since mid August, all travellers entering Greece are required to produce a negative Coronavirus test obtained in the country of departure within 72 hours of arrival in Greece. Please note that you should not use the NHS testing service in order to facilitate your travel, and that you should arrange to take a private test near you. This applies to both Greek nationals, Greek residents and non-Greek residents. You will also be required to fill in an online Passenger Locator Form (PLF) at least 48 hours before your flight, which will then provide you with a QR code you can show to the authorities upon your arrival.
Please be aware that this information may be subject to change. Keep up to date with the travel news if you are planning to travel abroad!
Germany
Based on the current assessments of the COVID-19 risks, Germany has been exempt from the FCDO advice against all non-essential international travel from the UK. Therefore, if you’re planning to travel to Germany this 2020, you will not currently have to quarantine when you return back into the UK.
If you didn’t know already, Germany is a place filled with fascinating culture, cosmopolitan cities, peaceful natural landscapes and so much more — not to mention their delicious beer! Although this fantastic country may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a long weekend away, the colourful foliage, golden autumn mist and crisp air make Germany all the more magical to visit in the autumn months.
Whilst there still remain certain coronavirus restrictions throughout the country, why not move away from the hustle and bustle of Germany’s main cities and go exploring its wild coastlines, emerald forests, picturesque river valleys and glorious castles? From the river and rolling vineyards in the Moselle Valley, to the spectacular ‘Devil’s Bridge’ in the Azalea and Rhododendron Park Kromlau, feel like you’re stepping into a fairy tale setting written by the Brothers Grimm and discover the sea of dense green and autumnal colours looming above the forest floor in Germany’s Black Forest. Whatever you decide to explore, an inspirational and safe adventure awaits your arrival.
What to expect upon arrival:
If you are travelling to Germany, you must take a COVID-19 test with evidence of a negative result, less than 48 hours prior to your arrival. You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel. Therefore, please make sure you take a test privately. Please be aware that travellers entering Germany from a designated risk area must quarantine for 14 days and take a COVID-19 test upon arrival.
To keep up to date with the German government advice, please take a look at the Robert Koch Institute link for more information.
