Since March 2020, the travel industry has been existing month to month, week to week, not knowing what is coming next. We have had travel bans, lockdowns and the traffic light system to contend with, not to mention polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and quarantine rules.
With every change, those in the travel industry have had to get up to speed quickly to be in a position to advise customers.
As this article went to print, the Government had just announced plans to scrap the need for a PCR test for tourists returning to Britain, and to change the traffic light system and merge the green and amber lists. The US has also announced that it will welcome UK tourists who have been ‘double jabbed’ from November.
Rob Gower, of Dragonfly Traveller in Hardingstone, said:
“Thankfully, things are starting to open up a bit more and the travel industry can now start to feel optimistic about the future. COVID-19 is going to be with us for a while it would seem, but this doesn’t need to stop us from travelling.
“These latest changes announced by the Government are a big boost for holidaymakers. Simplifying the traffic light system and changing the need for PCR testing, reducing holiday costs, will make planning a holiday so much easier from October 4, when the changes come into effect. However, those who are not fully vaccinated will still find travelling abroad tricky.”
Rob predicts that the changes will result in a flurry of bookings in October for 2022 holidays, with luxury holidays such as long-haul beach breaks and cruises proving to be popular.
“From delayed honeymoons to those wanting to celebrate a milestone occasion that perhaps passed during lockdown, I expect Caribbean islands and cruises to be popular going forward. For those who prefer shorter flights, Turkey and Egypt have both recently been removed from the red list so are also an option.”
So, what would Rob’s recommendations be for a 2022 holiday?
“The Caribbean offers warm turquoise seas and powdery white sand beaches – a real taste of paradise. Antigua, St Lucia, Barbados, Jamaica and Dominican Republic are all great choices for a 2022 break away with year-round sunshine and plenty of English-speaking all-inclusive resorts. There is also a wealth of culture to enjoy from the 1950s look of Havana to the smell of Caribbean cuisine, colours and music that engulf you.
“If you are looking for a cruise adventure, consider a Mediterranean cruise, taking in the likes of France, Spain and Italy.
“Whatever your choice, let’s hope that 2022 is the year that we can experience the many benefits of international travel again.”
Rob Gower of Dragonfly Traveller works as a travel PA, building bespoke holidays and trips for customers. Call 01604 661100 or visit www.dragonflytraveller.co.uk to find out more
