Simon Calder says NHS certificate issues are ‘so sad’
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The Balearic Islands are one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations, with thousands of Britons flocking to relax on the beautiful shores of Ibiza and Mallorca every year. In 2020, over 150,000 Britons visited the Spanish region despite the pandemic’s impact on tourist numbers.
Despite fears that Brexit could keep British tourists away, the Minister of Economic Model, Tourism and Work of the Balearic Government said Brexit was “solved’ on the islands.
Iago Neguereula, said the UK remained one of the Balearics’ biggest tourist markets even after leaving the EU.
He said: “They trust our territory and trust our islands and they have shown it by being one of the markets that has recovered the most.”
Negueruela said the large numbers of British tourists were partly due to good communication with UK officials throughout the pandemic.
The Minister also said that the Balearics had been one of the top international tourist destinations in Spain all summer.
He said: “Practically one in three international tourists (in Spain) have come to the Balearics this summer.”
In July of this year, almost 300,000 UK citizens visited the islands for a holiday after travel restrictions were lifted.
Negueruela said: “Tourism is bouncing back in the Balearic Islands. We are very grateful of the support of both the UK and local travel industries who have helped stimulate the market after such a long lockdown period.”
British tourists visiting Mallorca can choose to stay in the cosmopolitan capital of Palma or opt to try one of the new boutique hotels in Magaluf.
Menorca, a smaller island, has gorgeous beaches, ancient ruins to explore and plenty of countryside to roam.
The White Isle of Ibiza is known for its parties and is extremely popular with celebrities who also visit for yoga retreats.
The tiny island of Formentera is a short ferry ride from Ibiza and has stunning beaches and protected bird sanctuaries.
Since the Brexit transition period finished, British tourists can visit countries in the Schengen area for 90 days out of every 180 day period.
Spain is in the Schengen zone, as well as other popular European destinations such as France, Greece and Portugal.
Tourists do not need a visa for a short trip to the EU but are not able to use the EU passport lanes at border control.
British tourists should also check their passport with the UK Government’s passport checker to ensure it is valid for EU travel.
ABTA states: “You will need to have at least three months left on your passport and your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years.”
European Health Insurance cards are valid for UK citizens up to their expiry date when Britons will need to apply for a Global Health Insurance card.
On arrival in Spain, the UK Government states that British citizens will need a negative PCR test or proof of being double-vaccinated.
Tourists returning to the UK from Spain will no longer need to take a pre-departure test but will still need to take a PCR test on or before day two after arrival.
Source: Read Full Article