Getting to grips with travel rules from the UK | SPL Villas Blog

Getting to grips with travels rules from the UK

As we start planning our holidays once more, it can be tricky to get your head around what the rules are and how to prepare for them. While we can guarantee your villa will be in tip-top shape, we don't want any unexpected surprises on the return trip to put a dampener on what will surely be a perfect holiday. Fortunately, the rules are relatively simple to follow, and after reading our guide, you should feel like you know exactly what to do.

The traffic light system

To keep it simple, all countries have been put into a colour system based on the colours of traffic lights, that is to say, red, amber, and green. It's probably quite intuitive to think that green equals good, red bad and amber somewhere in between. Going to a red-listed country doesn't guarantee you're going to catch Covid-19, the same way going to a green country doesn't mean it's guaranteed you won't catch anything. If anything, it's best to err on the side of caution, follow local government guidelines and make the most of your holiday safely.

The best way to stay informed of which country is on which list is to check the government website, which is the first place you'll be able to officially see where a nation sits under the traffic light system.

It's worth noting, however, that this list only applies to people living in England. If you live in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, it's best to check your government's website for the appropriate rules. All four UK nations are following the same traffic light system, with some minor differences.

Most notably in Scotland, if you live in an area that's at protection Level Three or Four, you'll need a "reasonable excuse" for international travel, something worth bearing in mind if you're planning a holiday.

What countries are on the green list?  

We know you're just as keen to travel and enjoy our villas as much as we are, so we're really glad to be able to say some of the countries (as of publishing) that are on the green list include (as of 13th July) 2021:

Ibiza (amber from 19 July 2021)

Menorca (amber from 19 July 2021)

Mallorca (amber from 19 July 2021)

Madeira

Croatia (green from 19 July 2021)

Madeira and Croatia aside, these countries comprise the beautiful Balearic islands, some of the most phenomenal locations to get away and enjoy sunshine all year round. With great beaches, plenty of activities for families and lots of hidden hideaways if you're looking for something a little quieter, we have a wide range of villas to suit your needs.

Last but certainly not least is Portugal's beautifully green Madeira, a little oasis of calm that's known as the floating garden island. Ideal for a romantic getaway or a relaxing break from the day to day, we can't recommend this destination enough.

If a country is on the green list, you have to do the following things on your return to the UK:

• Take a Covid-19 test before your departure and have proof of a negative result, unless double vaccinated.
• Book a test for day two after your return
• Complete a passenger locator form

Unless your day-two test is positive or NHS Test & Trace says you've travelled with someone that's tested positive, you don't have to quarantine.

Amber list countries

The amber list is the default category for all countries unless they're actively put into the green or red category. As you may imagine, this contains the vast majority of locations.

The rules are much the same as a green listed destination.

PCR Tests

With free PCR tests reserved for those with symptoms of Covid-19, if you’re travelling back to the UK, one expense you’ll have to budget for is a PCR test.

You can find comparison sites that allow you to compare the various companies offering tests and find the right one for yourself. Typically a speedy process, you should have your results within 48 hours, but if you’re willing to pay extra you can even get your results back on the same day. Currently, the cheapest PCR tests would set you back £48 but prices vary depending on your provider.

Things to come

While things are still very much up in the air at the moment, whether you’re looking forward to July 19th or aim to maintain social distancing, holidaying is set to become easier in the coming weeks. We can't wait to see people enjoying our villas, whether that be making the most of winter sun in the Canary Isles or spending a group holiday on the Croatian coastline. Be sure to get in touch, and we can find that perfect somewhere just for you.