Holidays are on the cards for Brits again, but there are new rules to try and navigate during the pandemic.
The UK government introduced a 'traffic light system' earlier this year, which places countries on green, amber and red lists, each of which have different PCR test and quarantine rules for anyone coming back to the UK.
Currently, Brits can go on holiday to both the green list and amber list destinations, with a number of countries welcoming UK holidaymakers.
So, what's the difference between the green list and amber list?
There are two main differences; the number of PCR tests you'll need to take when you come back to the UK, and the requirements for self-isolation.
Do you think the traffic light system works, or is it too confusing? Let us know in the comments below.
The green list rules mean you'll need to take a pre-departure test before travelling to the UK, and then you'll need to take a PCR test on day two of being back. For green destinations, you won't need to self-isolate or quarantine after your trip.
When it comes to the amber list rules , you'll also need to take a pre-departure test, as well as PCR tests on days two and eight of being back. Adults who are not fully vaccinated will then need to self-isolate at home for 10 days (this doesn't apply to children, or adults who are fully vaccinated aka have had their second dose of the jab at least 14 days prior).
The government also has a 'green watchlist' - this operates with the same rules as the green list, but aims to indicate which destinations are at a higher risk of going amber.
The green list has been the most tempting for Brits because it doesn't require any quarantine when back in the UK. But what if a green destination goes amber, and you no longer want to travel? We've put together a guide on what happens if a green destination goes amber including what it means for people who have booked holidays.
Another travel update is expected from the government on Thursday (August 26), with changes anticipated across all three lists.
Croatia and Madeira, both on the green watchlist at the time of writing, could be set to turn amber according to analysis from travel experts, while Turkey could be coming off the red list and being added to the amber list.
The country has been on the red list since May this year, which means anyone arriving in the UK had to stay in a quarantine hotel costing at least £1,750.
It could mean a new holiday option for Brits, as currently Turkey is welcoming both unvaccinated and vaccinated UK travellers, with no need to quarantine. (Although all Brits will need to have a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arriving in Turkey).
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