Since the start of the UK lockdown, British citizens have been advised by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to avoid all non-essential travel. Many wondered if a summer holiday abroad would be off the table, but earlier in July, the FCO announced a number of countries would be exempt from this advice.
Anyone travelling back to the UK from a country not included on the FCO exemption list will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.
Self-isolation upon return to the UK is not necessary if the country is included on the FCO exemption list.
However the FCO advice on travel is subject to change at a moment’s notice, so if you are planning to travel abroad you should prepare for the possibility of having to self-isolate when you return.
Many British holidaymakers travelled to Spain after restrictions were lifted on travel to the region on July 4.
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However only last week the Foreign Office changed its advice on non-essential travel to the country.
Now any people who visit Spain will be required to self-isolate for 14 days after returning to the UK.
Further countries could be removed from the exemption list if the FCO deems the number of coronavirus cases in an area to be too high.
As a result of the changing situation, the FCO is urging people planning to travel at this time to take out adequate travel insurance.
However, you will be expected to follow Malta’s entry requirements upon arrival, including taking part in temperature checks.
There are also requirements you must adhere to while visiting Malta to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Passengers on public transport in Malta must wear face masks.
Public areas such as museums, shops, swimming pools, restaurants and other tourist spots have now reopened in Malta, with a number of rules to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
The FCO website states: “Museums and tourist sites, shops, gyms, hairdressers, swimming pools, restaurants and bars have re-opened but with restrictions on the number of customers allowed entry, a requirement to wear a mask and an ability to maintain social distancing.
“There have been several cases of COVID-19 linked to attendance at mass gatherings including a hotel party and village festas.
“You should consider carefully attending any event where social distancing is not possible.
“Social distancing of two metres is encouraged. Vulnerable people including those over 65 may return to work and leave their homes.”