The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Where to go without a test
Avoid hassle and expense of PCR, says Sarah Marshall
During the past few months, as vaccination rates have risen, the biggest hurdle facing travellers has been costly tests and complicated paperwork, rather than fears about catching Covid.
Luckily those days could soon be over, with the news many destinations are relaxing restrictions.
Since March 18, the UK authorities no longer require a passenger locator form – marking the removal of the last Covid-related travel restriction for fully vaccinated travellers.
But which other destinations are following suit?
Here’s a list of places where you can holiday without the hassle of a PCR test.
Gibraltar
Following the UK’s lead, this British Overseas Territory dropped the need for tests and passenger locator forms from March 18. Earlier in the month, rules around mask-wearing were also relaxed; face coverings are now only required at hospitals and residential services for the elderly.
France
Our neighbours across the Channel dropped the need for PCRs in February for fully vaccinated travellers, although it’s advisable to have proof of a booster shot, as many restaurants, bars and museums will ask to see this. You’ll also be asked to fill in a quick health declaration.
Croatia
It’s a game of numbers in this popular beach-hopping destination.
Anyone fully vaccinated within 270 days, with the last dose received at least 14 days previously, can enter without a PCR. Boosters are essential, so make sure you have those too.
Spain
Brush off those castanets and stamp your feet, because vaccinated trvellers to the national home of flamenco can be footloose once again.
But while PCRs have been dropped, all arrivals must carry proof of a vaccination certificate and fill out a Spanish Health Form (spth.gob.es).
Malta
Flash your NHS Covid Travel Pass and it’s all systems go to enter this tiny Mediterranean island.
It’s worth noting, however, that this is one of a few destinations where non-vaccinated travellers cannot enter (even with a PCR or quarantine).
Kenya
In time for one of nature’s greatest wildlife spectacles, the great wildebeest migration, this East African country has announced all fully vaccinated travellers can enter without a PCR. Before flying, travellers must upload their vaccine certificates to globalhaven.org and fill in a locator form at ears. health.go.ke.
UAE
They endured one of the strictest lockdowns, but it appears discipline has paid off. Confident that Covid is under control, the UAE no longer asks fully vaccinated travellers to take a PCR. Children under 16 are also exempt in Abu Dhabi; under-12s in Dubai.
Seychelles
One of the first destinations to achieve high vaccination rates, this Indian Ocean paradise now welcomes fully vaccinated travellers without a PCR. Anyone over 18 will need two doses and a booster; 12- to 18-year-olds will only need two doses. Overnight curfews have also been lifted.