Since the Scottish Government lifted almost all restrictions in August last year, travelling has, by and large, returned to normal. Mind you, to a new kind of normal. Obviously, the pandemic is still omnipresent. So, caution and common sense are required and individual hygiene measures should be adhered to wherever you go. But if you follow a few basic rules, organize yourself well, and with a team like ours to help, then nothing should get in the way of your Scotland holiday.
Entering Scotland and returning home is perhaps the only thing that needs a little more consideration, depending on the country you’re arriving from.
The good news is, that on the 18th March all travel restrictions will be lifted which will make entering the UK very simple, both for vaccinated and unvaccinated people. No PCR or lateral flow tests or vaccination certificates need to be presented upon entry. Also, the completion of the ‘passenger locator form’ is no longer necessary to enter Scotland.
Hire Cars & Transport
Public transport, such as trains and buses, can be used without any restriction. Timetables have also returned to normal. Unlike in England, face masks must be worn on public transport at all times (unless you have a medical exemption). Children under the age of 12 are exempt from wearing masks.
Hire Car companies follow strict hygiene regulations and leave the cars unused for several days between different customers. For collection, each branch has developed different procedures, all in line with the guidelines of the government recommendations.
Tourists Attractions & Restaurants
Sights, shops and restaurants are open as normal and handle the hygiene measures individually. In most cases, signs in the shop windows or messages on the websites inform about possible measures. Masks must be worn indoors, often it is also necessary to provide contact data (either manually or with QR barcode app). Many attractions currently have to be booked and paid for in advance. It is also advisable to book a table in advance for restaurants. Cafés and restaurants have different approaches: some offer a normal table service, others only accept orders via QR barcode.
Overall, travelling in times of Covid-19 requires perhaps a little more planning and, in some places, a certain flexibility. But we’re open for business and looking forward to welcoming you!