Sunbathing or city exploring? These destinations might now be your best bet for a summer holiday
Experts anticipate these countries may be added to the UK government’s green list.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.With the latest update to the government’s ‘traffic light’ system due to be released (June 24), rumours are rife about which countries might be added to the green list, meaning returning travellers wouldn’t have to quarantine.
Judging by expert opinion on the next batch of nations set to go green, holidaymakers will have to choose between city exploration or basking on the beach…
City Breaks
Malta
An island located off the tip of the ‘boot’ of Italy Malta is a safe bet for guaranteed sunshine.
One of Europe’s smallest capitals, Valletta is heaving with history – the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage site – and easy to navigate on foot. A good starting point is Merchant Street with it’s cool cafes, shops and daily market.
USA
If America is added to the green list you’ll have heaps of stateside cities to choose from.
Why not take a bite out of the Big Apple, home to just about every international cuisine you can think of; mooch round the many museums and galleries of historic Washington DC; soaky up the hippy vibes in hilly San Francisco; or go celeb-spotting in glamorous Los Angeles.
Cuba
Having recently opened up to tourists, Cuba was a much-hyped destination before the pandemic, and Havana is an essential stop for any visitor. Explore the capital in style by renting a vintage convertible or head out on foot to discover street art and independent galleries dotted throughout the city.
Poland
While capital Warsaw is known for its many museum plus the beautiful Lazienki Palace and surrounding gardens, Krakow is the place to head for stunning medieval architecture such as sprawling Wawel Castle, and Kazimierz, the old Jewish quarter which is now peppered with quirky shops and bars.
Slovakia
In landlocked Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, you’ll find a picturesque Old Town, its winding streets perfect for wandering aimlessly, stopping every so often for a caffeine fix in one of the city’s many Vienna-style coffee houses. Head up to Bratislava Castle for stunning views over the rooftops.
Beach holidays
Madeira
A strong contender for the green list, the Portuguese island of Madeira is closer to Morocco than mainland Portugal, meaning it benefits from warm weather year-round. Make a beeline for Praia do Porto do Seixal beach, which offers spectacular views of the lush cliffs on the north coast.
Greek Islands
Rumour has it several different Greek islands could be set for green list status. Mountainous Corfu boasts more than 50 beaches (the best said to be on the north coast); Kefalonia’s most popular bays are on the southern side; while upmarket Santorini is popular with couples and honeymooners.
Canary Islands
Which of the eight Canary Islands is best for beach lovers? With golden sands and calm waters, Gran Canaria ideal for a ‘fly and flop’ holiday, while the black sand beaches and rugged landscapes of Tenerife offer something a little more adventurous. Lanzarote is family-friendly and Fuerteventura is popular with the windsurfing and kitesurfing crowd.