Last Updated on April 16, 2021 by Cody Livingston
Have you been wondering which destinations you can fly to once restrictions start to lift? After a year of lockdowns, closed borders and social restrictions, we’re all eager to grab our suitcases and kick off our travel plans once again – and with leisure travel likely to open in May, it’s important to stay up to date with which corridors are finally being added to quarantine-free ‘green list’ in June.
To help us plan our long-awaited summer beach holidays, a new traffic light system is set to be discussed that would refer to a three-color guide outlining the restrictions travel-seekers would face as the world starts to open up – green signals the go-ahead for restriction-free travel, amber may require restrictions such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines, while red listed countries are likely to face the harshest measures.
While we aim to keep on top of any changes to travel restrictions as the days pass, we’ve rounded up a few of the destinations currently due to open for 2021 tourism in the coming months…
1 – Barbados
The beautiful Caribbean Isle of Barbados has officially reopened its borders to international travel, but there are specific travel protocols in place for both locals and visitors of Barbados during the COVID-19 pandemic, that have been in effect since February 3rd 2021.
Rules and Requirements: Visitors will need to submit a negative COVID-19 test report on arrival no older than three days and submit an ED card 24 hours prior to travel. If your test results are negative on arrival, visitors from the UK must quarantine and take another test five days after the first negative test and quarantine until that test returns positive.
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2 – Dubai
If you’re looking to visit the UAE, tourists from the UK can currently only visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This awe-inspiring city is one of the best places to travel if you want to lap up the luxury, with the best of both worlds to indulge in – from city-sized malls to powder white sands. Rules and Requirements: If you’re travelling to Dubai you will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test no older than 72 hours – in some cases you may need to take another test on arrival. If you’re travelling from UAE to the UK you will need a negative test no older than 96 hours and will be required to quarantine in a government hotel for 10 days.
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3 – Maldives
Luckily for us, one of the dreamiest destinations for couples and honeymooners is now open for tourism. If you’ve been counting down the days to escape for a week of R&R with your partner, the Maldives has lifted its ban for anyone who has departed from or transited through the UK in the last 14 days. Take us to the water bungalows!
Rules and Requirements: If you are travelling to the Maldives then you will need to submit a negative PCR test for COVID-19 no older than 96 hours upon arrival.
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4 – Antigua and Barbuda
Located in the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda has opened their borders to UK nationals, so tourists can start dreaming of lazy beach days, all-inclusive resorts and mouthwatering local food on their first exotic escape of 2021.
Rules and Requirements: Arriving passengers must wear a mask in public areas while in the country and complete a declaration form. If you are over 12 years you would need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test no older than seven days.
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5 – Cuba
Crowned as one of the world’s most distinctive countries, Cuba serves up miles of white sands, a capital lined with colourful Cadillacs, a few of Hemingway’s favourite haunts, and some pretty spectacular beach resorts. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at an all-inclusive hotel, sipping rum punch on the beach or swaying your hips at an exotic salsa show – there’s so much to be explored in Cuba.
Rules and Requirements: While travelling to Cuba, you will need a negative COVID-19 test report which should be no older than 72 hours. However, you will still need to take another test on arrival in Cuba.
6 – Seychelles
Seychelles is one of the top destinations for that luxurious and lazy beach holiday you’ve been dreaming about. Exotic coral islands, fine dining restaurants and buzzing bars mark their presence in this sweet spot of the world.
Rules and Requirements: You will need to present a negative COVID-19 test report, which should be no older than 72 hours. Your stay must be at a government approved hote, but there will be no restrictions movement restrictions.
7 – Costa Rica
We hope you know how phenomenal Costa Rica is? With its tropical climate, stunning beaches and an attractive culture, it really does stand out among the rest. Adventure enthusiasts will be in their element here, since its rugged landscape serves up a pick ‘n’ mix of beaches, tropical forests, national parks, nature reserves and more.
Rules and Requirements: To enter Costa Rica you will be required to buy Costa Rican insurance and complete an epidemiological form in advance.
8 – Ghana
Ghana has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday; with tribal influences, lush wildlife, rich tradition and culture, balmy beach vibes, ancient history and mind-blowing heritage – it’s a whirlwind destination that’s open and waiting to give you a warm welcome.
Rules and Requirements: If you’re travelling to Ghana you will need to complete a self-declaration form before boarding the flight and a hard copy of the form on the flight. A negative COVID-19 test report is required, which should not be older than 72 hours, followed by another test on arrival.
9 – Saint Lucia
Equal parts adventure and inspiration, St. Lucia is a heaven in disguise. With a warm climate and exotic beaches, the island is nothing short of desirable. While you’re visiting, be prepared for club-hopping, zip-lining, rainforests adventures and mouth-watering fresh seafood…
Rules and Requirements: Everyone entering St. Lucia must complete a pre-arrival registration form. A negative COVID-19 test report is also needed at the time of entry and must be no older than 7 days. Upon arrival you must stay at a COVID certified property.
10 – Bahrain
Also known as Dilmun in ancient times, Bahrain is an eclectic mix of all things old and beautiful. Nestled in the Persian Gulf in the Middle East, Bahrain (which was once known for its pearl trade) still has its fair share of modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels that neighbour its worn history – some of which are sure to give Dubai a run for its money! One of the most iconic places to visit here is the world-class Formula One racetrack.
Rules and Requirements: When you enter Bahrain you will need to pay for enhanced testing at the airport and must self-isolate until you receive the results. If your stay exceeds the five-day mark, travellers will need to take another test. Travellers must also download the BeAware app.
11 – Phuket
Thailands largest island, Phuket is one of the mos popular holiday destinations if you want beautiful far-stretching beaches, bustling city life, vibrant culture and an atmospheric nightlife scene – perfect for honeymooners, groups of friends and families alike. You’ll find a mixture of traditional and tourist life here, where local market stalls rub shoulders with chic all inclusive hotels, but that’s what makes it such an interesting place to visit.
Rules and Requirements: Visitors will have to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival along with a vaccination card as proof for entry. There will be no quarantine if both conditions are met for UK citizens.
12 – Malta
If you’re looking for rich history and culture, atmospheric harbour towns, buzzing nightlife and heaps of activities, Malta is the European gem you should head to first. Explore the UNESCO-listed capital of Valletta, hop on a boat and uncover hidden lagoons and cavess, or wander St Julian’s upmarket town and stop for a bite to eat – when you’re not lazing on the beach of course! Better still, if you like to party, Malta is a destination that’s packed with exciting calendar events and festivals to get involved in!
Rules and Requirement: If you have had your vaccination then you won’t need to take a COVID-19 test before or upon arrival in Malta. You should carry your vaccination card at the time of boarding, also your vaccination completion and time of boarding must be 10 days apart.
Note: This article is updated as per the latest news, any changes are subject to alterations done by the local government after accessing the present scenario.