Introduction
With summer just around the corner, many people are looking forward to taking a holiday abroad. England is a popular destination for those seeking a break from the everyday grind, with its rich culture and history, beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities. But with the coronavirus pandemic still ongoing, is it safe to travel to England right now?
In this article, we will explore the current situation in England regarding COVID-19 restrictions and travel advice. We will also provide tips for minimising risk during your trip and advice on how to access medical care while visiting.
Latest Coronavirus Statistics for England
As of April 2021, the UK has seen over 4.3 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, with over 127,000 deaths due to the virus. In England, there have been over 3.8 million confirmed cases, with over 115,000 deaths. The number of new daily cases has been steadily declining since January 2021, with an average of 6,300 new cases per day in April 2021.
The government is currently in the process of lifting the lockdown restrictions that have been in place since December 2020. On 12th April 2021, non-essential shops and outdoor hospitality venues were allowed to reopen. On 17th May 2021, further easing of restrictions is expected to begin, including the reopening of indoor hospitality venues and the resumption of international travel.
What to Expect When You Arrive in England
When you arrive in England, you should expect to follow the same health and safety guidelines as the rest of the country. This includes wearing a face mask in public places, maintaining social distancing wherever possible and following hand hygiene guidelines.
You should also be aware of the travel restrictions that are currently in place. All international arrivals into England must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken up to 72 hours before arrival. If you fail to do so, you may be fined up to £500. Additionally, all travellers must quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. Those who do not comply may be subject to fines or criminal prosecution.
Health and Safety Tips for Travelling to England
It is important to take precautions when travelling to England in order to minimise your risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19. Here are some tips for staying safe during your trip:
- Wear a Face Mask: Wear a face mask whenever you are in a public space. This includes when using public transport, shopping or dining out.
- Practice Social Distancing: Maintain at least 2 metres distance between yourself and other people.
- Follow Hand Hygiene Guidelines: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
UK Quarantine Rules for Travellers
All travellers arriving in England must quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. During this time, you must remain in your accommodation and not leave for any reason other than to seek medical assistance or to get tested for COVID-19. If you leave your accommodation for any other reason, you may be subject to fines or criminal prosecution.
There are some exemptions to the quarantine rules, such as if you are travelling on business or for educational purposes. You can find more information about the exemptions here.
Tips for Minimising Risk During Your Trip
When travelling to England, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19. These include:
- Choose Accommodation Wisely: Choose accommodation that is well-ventilated and has good hygiene standards. Avoid shared spaces such as lobbies, elevators and restaurants.
- Avoid Crowded Areas: Try to avoid crowded areas such as tourist attractions, shops and markets. If you do need to visit these places, wear a face mask and maintain social distancing.
- Monitor Local News: Stay up to date with the latest news and advice from the local authorities, and be aware of any changes to restrictions or travel advice.
How to Access Medical Care While Visiting England
If you require medical assistance while visiting England, there are several options available to you. The first step is to find a local GP, which you can do by searching online or asking at your accommodation. Most GPs will offer virtual consultations via telephone or video chat, but some may also offer in-person appointments.
The National Health Service (NHS) also offers a range of services for visitors to England, including emergency care and vaccinations. You can find out more about these services here. If you require emergency care, call 999 or go to your nearest hospital.
Conclusion
England is a popular destination for holidays and with the easing of restrictions, it is becoming increasingly safe to travel there. However, it is important to remember to take precautions such as wearing a face mask, practicing social distancing and following hand hygiene guidelines. Additionally, you should be aware of the travel restrictions in place and the quarantine rules for travellers. By following these tips and advice, you can ensure that your trip is as safe and enjoyable as possible.
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