The UK Government's updating of the 'traffic light' system for foreign travel has thrown holiday plans into disarray.
Moving Portugal from the green list to amber caught holidaymakers on the hop and sparked a scramble for flights back to the UK.
And hopes for summer holidays in the sun are fading fast, due to the travel rules being tightened amid growing concerns over coronavirus variants and mutations. Travel firm bosses say they are now facing “another lost summer” reports Wales Online.
England's Transport Secretary Grant Shapps blamed Amber-listing Portugal the move on “a sort of Nepal mutation of the so-called Indian variant” having been detected, and an increased test positivity rate in the country.
He also urging caution ahead of the scheduled domestic unlock on June 21.
Here, the PA news agency answers eight key questions on what the announcement means for consumers, so you can decide for yourself if you should book a summer holiday.
What are the rules for returning to the UK from green list countries?
You must need to take one pre-departure test and one post-arrival test - but you are not required to self-isolate.
What are the amber list rules?
AS well as taking one pre-departure test and two post-arrival tests, travellers must quarantine at home for 10 days.
Why is the removal of Portugal from the green list a bid deal?
The EU country was the only viable major tourist destination on the green list. Consequently, tens of thousands of people have booked a trip due to depart in the coming weeks - or are are already there on holiday.
Its removal also casts doubt on the prospects of other countries being added to the green list any time soon.
What does the Government say about the amber list?
It is urging people to avoid holidays and other non-essential trips to amber countries.
Does that mean I can’t go on holiday to an amber countries?
No. It is not illegal to visit an amber country, so many holidaymakers are going against the Government’s guidance. But some airlines are understood to be asking passengers why they are travelling before allowing them to board.
Should I book?
That's for you to decide if you want to take the risk. There is no law against booking a holiday, and travel firms are desperate for customers. However you should check the small print so you know how flexible your booking will be.
Can I get travel insurance for holidays at amber destinations?
Most insurers will provide cover for your trip so long as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is not advising against travelling to the destination.
However, policies are unlikely to cover cancellation due to the pandemic.
Will I get my money back if I no longer want to travel?
Probably not. Unless your holiday is cancelled, most travel firms will only allow you to change your dates but will not issue a refund.
That means many people face the choice of paying more to reschedule, or losing out completely.
A handful of firms have been praised for offering additional flexibility, including full refunds.
