The winter holiday season has been disrupted by the spread of the omicron variant and the strict rules of vaccinations and testing in some key ski destinations, but some restrictions are being reduced.
Fully vaccinated travelers and those under the age of 18 arriving in the UK will no longer have to take a test on the 2nd from 4am on the 11th of February. This comes after the abandonment of pre-departure tests for vaccinated travelers and the degradation of day 2 tests from PCR to PCR. a lateral flow (as well as the end of the requirement for vaccinated travelers to self-isolate until they receive a negative result).
Here’s everything you need to know about how the latest travel restrictions could affect your next vacation.
What are the new rules for testing?
Double-stranded travelers returning to the UK will no longer have to take a test on the 2nd on arrival in the UK from 4am on 11th February.
Anyone who tests positive should have a confirmation and isolation PCR test: fully vaccinated travelers may stop isolating on day 6 if they take a negative side flow test on days five and six, and: both results are negative; the tests were performed 24 hours apart; they do not have a high temperature.
The requirement for unvaccinated, or partially vaccinated, travelers to self-isolate for 10 days on arrival in the UK will also be removed on 11 February. They will still have to take a pre-departure test and a day 2 PCR test.
What are the latest red list travel rules?
There are no countries on the red list.
South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Swaziland (formerly Swaziland), Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Angola and Nigeria were eliminated in December.
The hotel quarantine policy remains in effect if countries are added to this list.
Are other countries imposing new rules?
Yes, including many European nations. France and Germany have lifted bans on all arrivals to the UK, but both have strict national rules for entry to venues. Austria is among the national ski resorts that can affect your holiday.
I’m nervous about my winter vacation, what can I do?
If you’ve booked a winter vacation, you may be concerned about how quickly changing rules can affect your vacation.
If you decide to change your holiday plans, you should contact your holiday company, accommodation provider or airline directly to see if you can book again. No company will be required to issue a refund due to holiday nerves, but you can contact us to ask if this is an option. Do not cancel unilaterally, or you will not receive a refund.
Can I go skiing?
Yes, but many ski destinations have basic rules that include health passes; see our guide for detailed information.
Where can I Ski Now?
There are ski resorts in several countries open to British travelers if you still want to book your trip to the slopes.
Read our full guide to ski resort rules and regulations here.
This article is kept up to date with the latest government news and guidance.
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