SA removal from UK red list an early Christmas for tourism industry

South Africa finally being removed from the United Kingdom’s red list could not have come at a better time.

We have been on its red list since May, but as of Monday, South Africans are allowed to travel to the United Kingdom and won’t be subjected to quarantine on arrival – something which came at a massive expense for those willing to make the trip.

But, more importantly, visitors from the UK are allowed in SA and won’t need to quarantine on their return.

South African tourism, dealt body blow after body blow since the start of the pandemic 18 months ago, needs foreign visitors.

The UK makes up for a large percentage of our tourists and with warmer weather expected over the next few months, making the bush and beaches more appealing to foreigners, the decision can only benefit our tourism and boost our economy.

Airlines have already seen a surge in bookings for November and December since the announcement, with many people desperate to spend time with their loved ones over Christmas.

Travellers from previously red-listed countries will be treated the same as returning UK residents, provided they have been vaccinated and follow other protocols outlined by the various airlines and countries.

Christmas has come earlier for the tourism sector