Self-Catering Holidays UK 2020 What Will Change?

 

Looking to get away? Thinking of self catering holidays UK? A few weeks ago most people had written off the idea of going away this year. As the nation emerges bleary eyed from weeks of Lockdown and as the Scottish, Irish, English and Welsh governments start to ease rules, a vacation is now starting to look more realistic.

 

Hotels are slowly re-opening, although entertainment may be sparse.  For most of us in the UK, going abroad is still high risk, so two thirds of Britons are looking at staycations. With rural and seaside destinations being the most favoured, self-catering will be a popular choice, as it fits in with social distancing and minimises risk for individuals.

 

Self Catering Cottages – Safety Guidelines

 

Dates you can travel

From 4^th July it has been permitted to holiday in England, 6^th July Wales and 15^th July Scotland.

 

Self Catering Accommodation Good To Go

So, what will a self-catering holiday in 2020 look like? The Government have launched a new scheme called Good to Go, so that accommodation providers can carry out their own risk assessments and put safety measures in place for your security.

 

Guidelines for Travellers

Equally important is the other government campaign Know Before You Go,.  This provides holidaymakers with advice on the research and steps to take before booking accommodation and prior to travel.

 

UK residents are now free to move across UK borders to stay in a second home or self-contained accommodation, so self-catering cottages will be in high demand.

 

B&Bs, campsites and hotels are still able to operate but with more social distancing rules in place, including communal areas remaining closed or restricted access.

 

 

 

 

Self Catering Scotland – Covid-19 – How Will Your Holiday Change?

Holidays to Scotland are now allowed, although there are still restrictions on public transport services and it is mandatory to wear a face mask whilst travelling.

When you have arrived at your destination, it is encouraged that you stay as local as possible and adhere to social distancing rules.

 

It is strongly advised to book all your travel and accommodation before your departure, bearing in mind too that some car parks may be closed.

 

If you are visiting the Islands, ferry services are still restricted to allow compliance with social distancing rules.

 

Where to check before travelling

 

For Rail and Bus consult travelinescotland.com

 

For Ferries please consult Ferry operators

• CalMac
• Northlink Ferries
• Orkney Ferries
• Shetland Ferries
• Western Ferries
• Corran Ferry
• Argyle and Bute Ferries
• Pentland Ferries

Road Network please consult Traffic Scotland 

 

Here is the Government’s Checklist for Safer Travel

• Plan your journey
• can I walk or cycle to my destination?
• have I checked the latest travel advice from my transport operator?
• have I booked my travel ticket online, bought a pass or checked if contactless payment is possible?
• have I planned my journey to minimise crowded areas and allow for delays?
• am I taking the most direct route to my destination?

What to take with you on public transport

• a face covering -for longer journeys, take more than one face covering and a plastic bag for used face coverings
• a plan for the journey
• tickets, contactless payment card or pass

 

Supporting Livelihoods

Positive Self Catering has been speaking to many self catering cottage owners in Argyll, Scotland who are keen to welcome back visitors and see life back in their towns and villages.

 

There are many to choose from whether it is a luxury break, dog friendly break or just a change of scene. Please read our blogs on further guides to Scotland and Argyll and what fun awaits to end the Lockdown Blues. Enjoy your journeys and stay safe!

 

 

Andrew & Caroline