Skiing
People are back on the slopes this winter!
With news of relaxed entry rules to the UK, many of us have taken the opportunity to book that longed-for break abroad. Whether you’re skiing, planning a Springtime getaway or already all-set for Summer, the news that in-resort tests have been scrapped for re-entry into the UK is very welcome for both travellers and the travel industry as a whole.
Upon return to the UK, the current rules mean that an LFT test is required within 2 days of landing on UK soil. This must be a purchased LFT rather than an NHS test, as it required special registration. However, it means far less expense than the previously required PCRs.
Emma kindly updated us on the rules when travelling out of the UK, which is somewhat more complicated!
“This is something that still varies a great deal, so it’s absolutely essential that you or your travel agent check the rules for the specific country you are travelling to, and anywhere you are travelling via. For example: Spain currently requires you to be double-jabbed in order to enter the country; Italy requires a booster; Austria asks for both a booster and a negative PCR; and France, having just re-opened its borders, requires negative testing 24 hours prior to your departure. Things are constantly changing and it’s so important to know the rules at the time of travel. Be prepared to follow current guidelines and you’ll be on the road to a great holiday.”
Emma has seen a real shift in public attitudes recently. Many people want to learn to live with Covid and they really want to get away. Behind the scenes, travel agents such as Holsworthy Travel are working hard to ensure that those longed-for holidays take place even if they have to be adapted due to restrictions.
Emma explained: “I had/have 117 people due to ski in January and the vast majority of bookings were affected by France closing its borders to us. We’ve changed travel routes, altered skiing locations etc and in the main they have still managed to ski! With over 30 years of experience in the industry, I’ve never faced such a challenge as this pandemic. However, my experience stands me in good stead to make the necessary adaptations for clients so that they can still be on their way when their holiday rolls around. It’s time to enjoy the world again!”
There are some fabulous prices to be found on holidays at the moment, so do give Emma a call on 01409 253962 or email sales@holsworthytravel.co.uk if you’d like details or information for your own getaway.
Emma also spoke to Pippa Quelch on Radio Devon last Tuesday afternoon, offering a really interesting insight into the travel industry throughout the pandemic - take a listen online at https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0bcbdkb (skip to 13:25 for Emma's introduction).