Turkey and Croatia scrap Covid tests for vaccinated Brits – making holidays much cheaper in time for half-term
FAMILIES planning a holiday to Turkey or Croatia this half term will be able to save hundreds of pounds – as both countries have scrapped Covid tests for tourists.
Vaccinated Brits no longer have to pay for a pre-arrival test to enter either country, just in time for the October holidays.
Turkey was also taken off the red list, meaning holidays to the country can go ahead without needing to quarantine upon return to the UK.
The Turkish Tourism Board said in a statement: “Turkey is ready and excited to welcome back travellers from across the UK this month and beyond.
“With no requirement for PCR tests, and following our removal from the UK government red list, travelling to Turkey couldn’t be easier.
“Turkey is the perfect destination for UK families this half term.”
Brits heading to Turkey will need proof of both jabs to skip the testing rules – anyone who isn’t fully vaccinated will still need the tests.
Croatia has also lifted the requirement for Covid tests from vaccinated Brits, who now only require proof of full vaccination to enter.
First enforced in July, the country previously required Covid tests from Brits even if they were vaccinated, although this was changed on October 1.
However, the rules state the second dose must have been taken within the past year. Kids under 12 are exempt from needing jabs or tests.
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Arrival tests can cost up to £100 each for a gold-standard PCR test, meaning families could save up to £400 on their holidays.
It also means families can book a holiday without fearing that they test positive before travelling, scuppering bookings.
New rules introduced this week in the UK mean Brits no longer need a pre-arrival test to return to the country either.
The day two PCR test requirement will also be swapped for a simpler lateral flow test later this month.
It is hoped this will be enforced in time for the October half-term, but the government is yet to confirm a date.
Here are some of the cheapest places to buy a PCR test for your holiday, as the free NHS tests are not allowed.