There are idyllic, picture-postcard holiday destinations, and then there’s the Seychelles: the quintessential romantic island hideaway.
Dreaming of crystal-clear waters and palm-fringed beaches right now? Well, the East African archipelago today announced it would restart commercial flights next month, with visitors from countries classified as ‘low’ and ‘medium risk’ set to be allowed in from August 1.
The list of ‘low risk’ countries includes Belgium, China, Japan, New Zealand, Norway and Thailand. Travellers from these countries will need to provide a negative PCR test from within 72 hours of arrival, or an antigen test.
The list of ‘medium risk’ countries includes Canada, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy, Singapore, South Korea and Sri Lanka. Visitors from these countries will have to provide a negative PCR test result from within the past three days.
It is unclear when tourists from the UK, USA, Australia or any other countries will be allowed in.
As for restrictions on the ground, travellers can only stay at a maximum of two places of accommodation for the first seven days, and these must be hotels or resort lodgings officially ‘certified’ by the country’s Public Health Authority.
Let’s face it, though: once you’re lounging on that dazzling white shoreline, you won’t be wanting to repack your suitcase.
Remember, many countries are still warning against all non-essential travel and some are quarantining all overseas arrivals, including their own returning citizens. Check all the relevant restrictions before you think about travelling.
Where can you travel right now? Here’s what you need to know.