Julie travelled to Cyprus

Julie took a well-deserved week off and travelled to one of her favourite hotels in Cyprus. Unsure of what travel during Covid (October 2021) would be like, she was pleasantly surprised. Here's her account.

"Bristol airport was very quiet, with only three flights departing around the same time as ours so the queue at the Easyjet baggage drop was short and efficient. We needed to show our Cyprus flight pass (which was easy to complete pre-departure and required only basic personal details) as well as proof of vaccination. No pre-departure tests were needed, so it was just simply a little extra paperwork than you would have had pre-covid.

Tip: Paper copies of these documents make processing so much easier than relying on finding them on your phone.

The airport lounges were closed as were some eateries, and it was strange to see Bristol airport - usually very busy - quiet and peaceful! Having said that, our flight was almost full with only a few empty seats. Masks had to be worn at all times on the aircraft, apart from when eating or drinking, and the cabin crew ensured this was adhered to. We felt very safe.

Arrival into Paphos was a slight contrast to Bristol. Several flights had arrived at the same time and the immigration progress was somewhat chaotic. We needed to show our Cyprus flight pass and NHS certificates again and have our passports photographed. There was some queuing, but we were through soon enough. 

On arrival at the Asimina Suites, masks were to be worn in all public areas and in the buffet restaurant. The indoor a la carte dining room was closed, but the outdoor ALC was available with no masks required. Luckily, the weather was good! The pool areas and the hotel's beach were just like previous years with no masks in sight. The resort was fully open with lots of people around and life in Paphos was 100% normal as per pre-Covid. It was lovely. 

Having not travelled overseas for two years, I was thrilled to be able to get back to one of my favourite places after all this time. I'd urge anybody thinking of a winter sun holiday, or indeed for travel in general, to get something booked and enjoy all the lovely destinations on offer once again.

I am so glad I took the plunge and would not hesitate to travel again in the near future as our world is slowly beginning to reopen."