While August may be at its end, recent updates to the travel lists have given many the hope of a last-minute summer holiday.
Changes to the green, amber and red lists were published on August 26 and will go into effect at 4am on Monday, August 30.
It has made many curious over what countries have changed lists, and what new possible holiday locations may be opening up.
One destination of interest is the Azores Islands off the coast of Portugal, popular for its many beaches and volcanic landscapes.
What list are the Azores are, and can you travel there from the UK?
What travel list are the Azores on?
At the time of writing, the Azores are currently on the amber list, but they will be moving to the green list on August 30.
The Azores are one of seven destinations set to go green on Monday, including Canada, Switzerland and Finland.
Those who arrive in the UK from a green list country do not need to self-isolate upon their arrival – although they do still need to take a test on or before day two after they arrive.
If you arrive in the UK from the Azores before August 30, you will still need to follow the amber list rules.
If you are not fully vaccinated and are returning to the UK from an amber list country, you will need to self isolate for 10 days upon arrival and take a Covid-19 test on or before day two and on or after day eight.
Fully vaccinated travellers no longer need to self-isolate upon return from amber list countries, but they still have to take a coronavirus test three days before they travel back, and have a PCR swab the day after they land.
You’re only exempt from self-isolation from an amber list country if you’ve been vaccinated under a UK, EU or US programme
Can I travel to the Azores from the UK?
You can travel to Portugal and Azores from the UK for any purpose but there are some entry requirements.
If you’re fully vaccinated at least 14 days before your arrival, you’ll need to provide proof to enter Portugal and the Azores.
In England and Wales, the NHS Covid Pass shows your vaccination details and will be accepted. Your NHS appointment card from vaccination centres cannot be used as proof of vaccination.
In Scotland, you can use the NHS Inform app to access your vaccine records, while in Northern Ireland you can use the nidirect.gov services.
If you’re not fully vaccinated, you will need to present evidence of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of your departure at the airport – you will also have to quarantine for 14 days upon your arrival in the Azores.
Children under 18 are exempt from quarantining if they are travelling with a fully vaccinated adult.
You will also be subject to health screening on arrival. If your temperature is 38ºC or over or you show any symptoms, you may be required to take a further covid test and remain at the airport until you receive your test result.
Always check the most recent government guidelines before booking your journey.
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