UK ‘Freedom Day’ Creates Hope for Greek Tourism Stakeholders

Fully vaccinated British travelers will no longer be required to quarantine for 10 days following their trip to Greece, after the British government lifted all Covid-19 lockdown measures on Monday, giving Greek tourism stakeholders something to hope for.

Britain’s decision to amber-list Greece over the past few months impacted the country’s tourism flows and figures. The UK is one of three leading source markets in the peak summer season. Greek professionals are now expecting last-minute bookings to help cover lost ground. 

Despite a surge in coronavirus cases over the last few weeks, UK officials went ahead on Monday and eased restrictions. After a year or more of containment measures, July 19 was dubbed “Freedom Day”.

Photo source: @Heathrow Airport

Vaccinated travelers will not be required to quarantine after return from amber-listed countries such as Greece, and locals are no longer required to wear masks. Nightclubs and sporting events will also be open at full capacity in England. The same does not apply to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

At the same time, the US State Department raised is travel alert for the UK to the highest Level 4: ‘Do Not Travel’ rating.

Meanwhile, British holidaymakers eager to get some sea and sun after months of  restrictions rushed to book their summer holidays to Greece. According to a poll released by travel search engine Kayak, the Greek islands are a leading choice among British travelers, who are also searching for holidays in Italy, Cyprus, Barbados islands, Maldives, Portugal, Turkey, Hawaii, France, and Egypt.

According to media reports, however, Greece may soon be placed on the UK’s new “amber plus” list – which currently includes only France – and requires that all travelers take a pre-departure test three days before return as well as a PCR test on or before Day 2 of their return as well as self-isolate at home for 10 days.