ABTA alerts UK citizens with new travel restrictions and protocols

Friday, July 15, 2022

Earlier 60% of people were planning to travel abroad this summer which is rising to three in four families (75%).  ABTA – The Travel Association has urged holidaymakers to go through a final checklist of actions to make sure they’ve got everything in place for their summer holidays.

ABTA has urged to know the latest COVID-19 requirements set by that country for entering it and any health measures in place once at the destination to limit the spread of the virus, such as wearing a face covering.

One of the most important steps is to check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for the country they’re visiting. Some of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, including Spain and France, do still have restrictions in place while many overseas destinations have relaxed or removed their COVID-19 requirements. Both these destinations require visitors aged 12 and over to present either proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative test for entry. ABTA has urged everyone to travel to destinations only if they have the right documents in hand.  

ABTA is also reminding holidaymakers of the differences they need to be aware of and prepare for before they head to their favourite European destinations As many holidaymakers will be heading to Europe for the first time since the UK leaving the European Union (EU).

This includes checking if there are additional charges to use their mobile phone while abroad, making sure they don’t take any items that contain milk or meat into the EU and being aware that they will need to use the non-EU visitor lanes when passing through passport control.

The year’s peak travel period is set to begin next Friday (22 July) when many schools break up for the summer holidays.

6 offbeat locations for last-minute summer trip UK

Cornwall

Cornwall is the ultimate destination for amazing seafood. The long and sandy beaches make it one of the best weekend destinations which is also not very far from the urban life. The major highlights include St Ives and Padstow.

Zareba, Airbnb is one of the best places to stay in Cornwall. The sleeping capacity is 6 people here. The place also boasts an amazing view of Porthminster Beach and harbour.

Ipswich

The place is heavenly beautiful not because it boasts the lush and lusty greenery but also because it is so accessible for the tired UK urban. The place is one-hour train journey from London Liverpool. The residential farmland makes one of the best residential.

The Bailiffs house is a popular choice for staying in Ipswich. 10 guests can be accommodated here. The place is filled with BBQ party zones, an outdoor heated pool and a room dedicated and filled with gin.

Barcelona

A popular place for football and world-class conferences, Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most favoured locations for UK citizens. The Spanish urban livelihood depends on the city. Barcelona also is the biotech hub for Spain.

Best place to stay in Barcelona are Barri Gotic, El Raval and El Born.

Paris

Paris is not a place that requires too much talk. The culture and fashion capital of Europe is an absolute delight for UK citizens. While there are thousands of places to stay in Paris the Champs-Elysees area is best for anyone of any age. Besides that, Louvre and Bourse neighbourhood is also a very important place to stay.

Isles of Scilly

It is possible to go by a Skybus or ferry or by both. The spectacular water and isolation provide the feel of exotic refreshment. The production of cut flowers adds to another sense of fulfilment. Five of the islands are inhabited by the locals who have a livelihood depending on exporting spring bulbs and selling old-fashioned seaside holidays.

Pompeii

This is a very off-bit tourist attraction but this city covers the historical ruins and refills energy to live. The marvels of artwork and ancient buildings are some of the exotic elements to watch. Pompeii offers insight into man’s destruction and struggles of life. One can drop here to visit the ancient city lanes. Paying a visit to Mount Vesuvius can be an amazing experience. The best places to stay in Pompeii are common household inns.  

Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA – The Travel Association said:

“This summer is set to be the busiest travel period since the pandemic began, with families, in particular, making the most of the school holidays to enjoy an overseas break. Following our checklist will help make journeys as smooth as possible.”

“This includes keeping a close eye on the latest COVID-19 requirements for your holiday as your departure date nears to make sure you have everything you need. It’s especially important that families travelling to Spain or France, where some COVID-19 restrictions are still in place, have read the FCDO travel advice and are clear on the documentation that each member of their family will need to present for entry.”

ABTA’s last-minute holiday checklist:

1. Regularly check the FCDO travel advice for your destination to keep across the latest COVID-19 entry requirements and health advice. You can also sign up to receive email alerts.
2. Make sure you get the COVID-19 documents you need for your destination, such as proof of vaccination or a negative test, and don’t forget to take face coverings for use if needed on your journey and while you’re on holiday.
3. Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers your individual circumstances. Many policies include cover for COVID-19, such as medical expenses while on holiday or cancellation if you’re unable to travel.
4. If you’re travelling to Europe, check how the changes since the UK left the EU will affect your trip, such as the rules around mobile data roaming and taking food into the EU.
5. Do a final check of your passports to make sure they will be valid for your travel dates.
6. Plan your journey in advance and allow extra time for traffic, planned road closures or engineering works.
7. Make sure you arrive at the airport at the time advised by your airline and be ready to present your passport and any COVID-related documents you need at check-in. You may also have the option to check-in online which may save you time.
8. Prepare your hand luggage for security, making sure any liquids you’re taking are in containers of 100ml or less and all fit inside a 20cm x 20cm clear plastic bag. Place this bag in the trays provided, alongside any large electrical items like laptops and tablets, and take off bulky items of clothing like coats, jackets and belts.- copy paste. 

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