James visits Mallorca

In October 2021, James spent a week in Mallorca - read his account of what travelling at this time is really like.

"I was meant to visit Mallorca in May ('21) but, as many have found, had my travel plans postponed due to Covid. I was excited as October approached to finally get some sun!

Flying from Bristol airport was a breeze. I had to show proof of vaccination and a completed Spanish health form (which just required personal details) but that was checked very quickly. I'd definitely recommend printing any certificates you need out - airport WiFi is notoriously unreliable and I saw a few stressed individuals trying to access their digital certificates with little luck.

Bristol isn't back to full capacity yet, but it was lovely to take advantage of short queues and a relaxed departure area. All the usual shops and cafes were open and, while mask-wearing wasn't mandatory, I'd say 50% were wearing them.

Masks were mandatory on the flight, which I was happy about, and - as Julie found on her trip to Cyprus - the cabin crew ensured this was adhered to.

Arriving into Palma, mask-wearing bumped up to 95%. It was immediately obvious that the UK takes a more relaxed approach to Covid than elsewhere. Throughout my entire trip, every indoor area required masks to be worn - pubic transport, shops, restaurants (when not seated at your table) and so on. I was perfectly happy about this - they had the balance right between feeling safe while not intruding on the overall enjoyment of the trip. Otherwise, life in Mallorca was very 'normal' . Beyond wearing masks when required, restaurants were open and busy, cafes were vibrant, the beaches busy and the general atmosphere as it always has been.

I was staying in a self-catered apartment in Puerto Alcudia and absolutely loved being able to travel again."