Portugal And Cyprus Want To Allow Vaccinated UK Tourists From May

Cyprus and Portugal have stated they hope to welcome British tourists that have been fully vaccinated from May, which is when travel restrictions may be lifted in the UK.

The Cypriot government said those who have had two Covid jabs could travel, while Portugal said those who tested negative or were "immune" could also visit. Despite these positive signs Home Secretary Priti Patel has said it is still "too early" to book a foreign trip.

Stephen Ashcroft, Managing Director at A&G Travel, one of the UK’s leading corporate travel agents said “Going on holiday is currently illegal but even if you are travelling in an emergency or for business it’s a logistical nightmare, with forms , quarantines , hotel expenses , tests , self-isolation and the constant changes. The travel industry is now affectively closed with no overseas activity realistically within the next 6 months and this is on top of the previous 12 months of extremely limited business.”

Due to the UK’s vaccination drive being a success the success it makes Britons very attractive to countries wanting to welcome holidaymakers, especially those European countries which are traditionally popular with British tourists and would provide a much needed boost to their economies.

Although international travel is not guaranteed to start on 17 May, countries and companies are already gearing up to have British tourists back and making a bid for them to book.

Ashcroft from A&G said “Booking ahead is the only option for the travel industry. Long haul destinations from October through to early 2022 including Easter is something we are holding onto. We’d all like something to look forward to so why not book early, get a great deal and hold on to the thought of some winter sun in the winter months.”

The UK government says the red list remains under review, with public health the UK's top priority.