As the coronavirus lockdown in England was recently lifted to a three-tier system of restrictions, all areas of the country must abide by either the medium, high, or very high category rules.
It is advised that residents of England do not travel during this time, but for those who intend to do so, we have highlighted travel corridors to ensure this is done safely according to government guidelines.
Travel corridors allow people to travel to certain destinations with low COVID-19 infection rates, without the need to quarantine when returning to the UK. The list of destinations is available on the government website and adapts regularly.
Based on the destinations on the current list, we have highlighted our top five recommendations to suit a variety of tastes, to ensure you choose the right holiday for you!
This article was published on 11th December 2020.
Dubai
Home to the famous Burj Khalifa which dominates the concrete skyline, Dubai is the perfect destination to see stunning architecture as well as relaxing in the scorching sun, luxury shopping trips, and experience rich culture.
With hotel and flight prices at their lowest ever, this holiday will be cheaper than it normally would be. Make sure to see the Burj Al Arab overlooking the Persian Gulf, splash out in the Dubai Mall, relax at Jumeirah Public Beach, and tick the world’s tallest building off your bucket list!
Travellers must either provide a negative COVID-19 test before departure which is valid for 96 hours from the date of the test or to take a test upon arrival in Dubai.
Maldives
The Maldives is the perfect destination for taking in the natural beauty and diving in the vibrant blue waters connected to the flawless white sand beaches.
Famed for its 60 local diving sites and exotic sea life, get involved in a range of activities such as walking tours around the capital of Male, water sports in Maafushi, a sunset cruise or a beach and spa package.
The same negative test rules apply on arrival to the Maldives as Dubai, with further strict screening procedures in place for any suspected COVID-19 cases.
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Escape to the white sand paradise islands of the Caribbean. With a variety of options of islands within St Vincent and the Grenadines, this is perfect for those seeking relaxation, adventure and the freedom to explore more than one destination.
Visit the main yacht spot in the second largest of the Grenadines, Bequia, where you’ll experience fascinating history in the Bequia Maritime Museum and relax on the stunning Princess Margaret Beach. Snorkel and sail in the Tobago Cays, visit the tropical paradise of Petit St. Vincent, Palm Island and Salt Whistle Bay – the list of beautiful things to see and experience is limitless!
Due to St Vincent and the Grenadines only being accessible to the UK through Barbados, travel guidelines must be followed to align with both locations.
Chile
Experience the stunning mountain landscapes of South America including the famous Andes and the Chilean Coast Range mountains. Flooding with nature and culture, this is the perfect destination for adventure.
A must-visit is the Torres Del Paine National Park, boasting the most spectacular mountains, glaciers and lakes. Make sure to experience Valle de la Luna and the Atacama Desert, as well as Easter Island and Rapa Nui National Park!
Travellers must fly to Chile through Santiago Airport which opened to non-resident foreigners on 23rd November, and strict sanitary procedures must be followed upon arrival.
Iceland
Known as “The Land of Fire and Ice”, Iceland is home to the largest and most beautiful glaciers in Europe and the most active volcanoes in the world.
Witness the magical blend of colours lighting up the sky to form the famous Northern Lights, explore the glacial ice caves, discover the lagoons, relax in the spas and see the most beautiful range of waterfalls and hot spring eruptions from the active volcanoes.
Visitors must either pay for a COVID-19 test and present a negative result or self-isolate for 14 days upon the arrival.
By Layla Maguire
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
