Hays Travel see huge surge in interest after changes to Government's coronavirus green list

Destinations including Spain’s Balearic Islands, Malta, Madeira and several Caribbean nations were among 14 countries and territories moved to the green list on Thursday.

People arriving in the UK from those locations after 4am on Wednesday, June 30, will no longer be required to self-isolate.

Dame Irene Hays, chair of Sunderland-based Hays Travel, said: “The inclusion of more countries on the green list and green watchlist is a positive step forward.

“We are already taking more calls and enquiries from people who are looking to take a holiday this summer and beyond.

“There is still huge demand for holidays."

With most people not having been able to travel since early last year, holidaymakers have Our customers are choosing places that they have wanted to visit for a long time - some of them ticking off their ‘bucket list’.

“People are generally spending more money on holidays- upgrading to better accommodation and destinations.

“Europe, America and island resorts such as the Caribbean or the Maldives are really popular.

“As always, we are pleased to help our customers find their dream holiday when and where is is safe to go. They can be assured they are in good hands with our Peace of Mind guarantees and a range of insurance to cover all eventualities. And they can book now to get the best choice and price, and pay by monthly direct debit.”

Price comparison website TravelSupermarket said Barbados went from being its 12th most-searched-for country by package holiday customers to number two, following the Government’s announcement.

Malta rose from 17th spot to number five.

Holidaymakers are rushing to book trips to destinations added to the Government’s quarantine-free list.

Andrew Flintham, managing director of tour operator Tui, said it saw an “immediate uptick in searches and bookings” following the announcement, particular to the Balearic Islands which include Ibiza, Menorca and Mallorca.

British Airways has added flights to its schedules and plans to use larger aircraft on routes serving the new green list locations to meet the demand for travel.

Another airline, Jet2.com, has launched a new service linking the North East to Malta. The firm saw its highest volume of bookings to the Balearic Islands in nearly a year on Thursday.

Enjoy our headlines with fewer distractions and sign up to a digital subscription today - fewer ads, faster load times and all of the stories you need. Your support for our journalism means we can continue supporting our communities for generations to come. Click ‘Subscribe’ in the menu to find out more and sign up.