bbcuk--2020-07-06--Coronavirus lockdown: Eight ways the lockdown has changed the UK

Life in the UK has been transformed since restrictions were brought in to curb the spread of coronavirus .
The restrictions , which have affected all aspects of society , will be relaxed further in most of England from Saturday , with pubs allowed to reopen and people allowed to meet indoors , while in Scotland the five-mile travel limit is set to be lifted from Friday .
But how has life changed over the past three months ?
1 ) Visits to parks and beaches are up In the week after the lockdown was announced , the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its pre-pandemic level .
At the start of June it was back up to about two-thirds .
The number of people on public transport fell even further , with rail use down to just 7 % at the start of June , according to Department for Transport figures .
Mobile phone data analysed by Google shows that people largely did as they were told .
Visits to parks , beaches and outdoor spaces plummeted almost immediately as the country was told to only go outside for exercise once a day .
Visits to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half of normal levels .
In some areas , such as Hartlepool , Bracknell Forest and Darlington in England - as well as Lisburn in Northern Ireland and East Renfrewshire in Scotland - the data suggested visits to parks and recreational spaces dropped by more than half compared with the five-week period in January and early February , which Google used to calculate its baseline .
Across the country , that rose significantly once the first relaxation of lockdown was announced in May and people were allowed to exercise outside more than once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May bank holiday weekend .
In mid-June , the rise in visits was biggest in places like Southend , Brighton and Wokingham .
2 ) The UK is 'past the peak ' of the disease Prime Minister Boris Johnson says the UK is `` past the peak '' of the coronavirus outbreak , but has stressed the country must not `` risk a second spike '' .
By tracking hospital deaths , which are a sign of transmission in the general population , there is strong evidence that the UK hit the peak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths from all causes registered in a single week has fallen below the five-year average for the first time since mid-March , according to Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) figures published on Tuesday .
Mr Johnson says the UK must keep the R rate - the number of people to which one infected person will pass the virus - below one in order to avoid a second peak 3 ) Doctors did more phone appointments than face-to-face The way people are using the health service is changing .
Only about 14 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out over phone or video link in the year to February 2020 .
But that has all changed , with the number of phone appointments slightly outstripping face-to-face consultations in May as the public became conscious of the need for social distancing .
The Royal College of GPs has said most people were `` pretty happy '' with phone appointments .
But charity Age UK has urged doctors not to drop home visits and to `` proactively '' seek out vulnerable patients .
At the same time , the number of people attending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of calls made to 111 - the NHS hotline - reached record highs .
But the health service says it is vital that people continue to seek medical help if they need it .
`` If you do have symptoms of stroke , chest pain and think it might be a heart attack , a sick child who is deteriorating , if you are a pregnant woman and the baby is not moving as much as it used to - it is important you do n't delay , '' says NHS England 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have turned to the government 's furlough scheme Three months ago , many people would have never heard of furlough .
But millions now rely on the scheme , which pays up to 80 % of the wages of staff at businesses struggling to operate under coronavirus restrictions .
About 185,000 firms applied for the scheme on 20 April , the day it went live .
Those claims alone covered 1.3 million workers and cost the Treasury an estimated £1.5bn .
Many more have applied since then , with two-thirds of businesses polled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have furloughed at least part of their workforce .
One in four firms still trading said their turnover had fallen by at least 50 % since the lockdown .
Firms have to start paying towards the scheme from August , and it will close entirely in October .
At the same time , applications for universal credit have soared compared with this time last year .
About three-quarters of a million claims were made in the first week of lockdown , more than 20 times as many as would apply in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considerable pressure on the benefits system , the figures show that the number of claims is now starting to come down , having peaked in the first week of lockdown .
The lack of travelling did make a difference to the environment , as air pollution dropped compared with last year .
Average nitrogen dioxide readings across the UK were lower throughout lockdown than they were on equivalent days of the week in 2019 .
However , the gap narrowed after restrictions were eased in May and people were able to travel further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ associated with vehicle exhausts , it is not the only measure of pollution .
Nonetheless , Hugh Coe , professor of atmospheric composition at the University of Manchester , said the drop in nitrogen dioxide levels showed `` what we could achieve if we set our minds to it '' .
`` It was only ever going to be a short term fall because we ca n't change our infrastructure over night , '' said Prof Coe .
`` People needed to get back to work and they were advised not to use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` So even though fewer people than normal are working , more of them are now going by car .
`` However what this period proves is that if we do switch to sustainable energy and zero carbon , we can make a big difference . ''
6 ) Most children are still at home There are now about 1.5 million children in England going to school , but this is still just over 15 % of those registered .
Schools closed to all but vulnerable pupils and the children of key workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown was announced and the numbers attending fell even further .
The lowest attendance was on 13 April when 36,000 children were in .
However , this was Easter Monday and schools would normally have been closed altogether .
Yet teachers and other staff were still in school even during two half-term breaks and the Easter holidays , as they stayed open to continue caring for the children of workers on the front line of the pandemic .
The government has said it expects to have all children in England back in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Schools in Wales reopened on Monday and those in Scotland and Northern Ireland will reopen in August .
As people were told to stay at home as much as possible and non-essential shops were closed , searches for items to be delivered surged to record highs .
In the first week after lockdown there was a rise in searches for `` birthday delivery '' as people tried to make celebrations special in the absence of parties with family and friends .
Based on the number of births per day recorded between 2000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in England and Wales have had a birthday during lockdown .
As well as searches for supermarket delivery slots , with the Easter bank holiday falling around the peak of the pandemic , people were also trying to get hold of chocolate eggs By May , people were seeking other little luxuries such as cream teas .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• SYMPTOMS : What are they and how to guard against them ?
• FACE MASKS : When should you wear one ?
• TESTING : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters 8 ) Some people still think 'normal life ' is a long way off During the lockdown , people became more and more pessimistic about a swift return to `` normal life '' , according to surveys by the Office for National Statistics .
In the early days just over one in 10 people surveyed thought it would take more than a year - or even that their life would never return to normal .
By June , it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a recent rise in people thinking `` normal '' is less than six months away .
That may well change as the latest and most substantial easing of lockdown in England starts on Saturday .
Pubs and the rest of the hospitality sector are allowed to reopen - along with hairdressers - and a relaxation of the 2m rule will come in .
Northern Ireland has also reduced social distancing to 1m , while in Scotland and Wales the recommendation to stay 2m apart is still in place .
This piece was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been updated to include the latest statistics .

More than nine million jobs have been covered by the furlough scheme since March. It pays up to 80% of the salary of those placed on leave (up to a maximum of £2,500 a month) because of the coronavirus pandemic.


bbcuk--2020-07-06--The North Korean refugees supplying PPE to care homes

Jihyun Park and Timothy Chow understand the meaning of hardship .
Both suffered under the brutal North Korean regime , enduring famine , the deaths of family members and imprisonment in forced labour camps - before fleeing and eventually receiving asylum in the UK .
Wanting to give something back to the country that gave them safe haven , the pair have teamed up with other members of the North Korean community to donate a total of 7,000 sets of personal protective equipment to seven care homes in the north of England .
`` I escaped North Korea two times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Manchester .
`` The first time I only escaped as far as China where I was married off to a farmer and effectively became his slave .
I was later sent back to North Korea and forced to work in a labour camp in the mountains . ''
Stockport-based Timothy Chow 's experience was also harrowing .
He grew up during a famine in the 1990s known as the Arduous March , a period of mass starvation which left anywhere between one and three million North Koreans dead .
`` I grew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the street for years , '' he says .
`` It was n't just me ; there were thousands of children living on the streets .
There was no help from the government , only the threat of imprisonment , torture and oppression .
It was a strange life , but that was my childhood . ''
After successfully escaping the North Korean regime , both Jihyun and Timothy received asylum in the UK .
`` When I arrived in England in 2008 , I could n't speak any English , '' says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind and welcoming .
I cried and cried , because in North Korea , I did n't feel welcome , but in the UK people made me feel at home . ''
Timothy had a similar experience .
`` It was very difficult when I first came here with no friends or family .
But I was quickly welcomed into the community .
`` In North Korea , people are being spied on all the time and you can not trust anybody .
But here in the UK , the warmth of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Timothy credit this generosity of spirit when they were at their most vulnerable , with fuelling their desire to help the Covid-stricken UK .
`` I was following the news and seeing that so many people were dying and I thought how can I help ? ''
says Jihyun .
`` When I lived in North Korea , I was a teacher and my students would often complain that their stomachs ached from hunger .
But at that time I could n't do anything to help .
Now I 'm in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And there are nearly 700 North Koreans in the UK who also want to show their gratitude . ''
Jihyun and Timothy enlisted the help of another defector living in South Korea , and were able to import the 7,000 PPE sets they donated to English care homes .
One of the recipients is The Grange in Stockport , where John Yasin is services manager .
Due to early and comprehensive action , The Grange has avoided the worst effects of the virus , with no Covid-19 cases reported .
Other care homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affected by the pandemic - nearly a third of all coronavirus deaths in the UK have happened in a care facility .
`` My wife and I have been running this home for around 20 years and have never experienced anything like this , '' says John .
`` We first locked down in the first week of March .
And at the moment , I ca n't see the light at the end of the tunnel .
We do n't know when it 's going to end . ''
The stress has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the North Korean community .
`` My wife answered the phone to somebody saying , 'we 're a group of North Korean refugees doing a charitable donation , would you be willing to accept ? '
We said 'yes , we 'd be more than happy ' .
And not only did they make a donation , but the quantity was quite large .
I mean 1,000 masks is not to be sniffed at !
I do n't need to worry about face masks for several weeks . ''
The donation has also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers , who now more than ever sense that they are valued .
`` The staff know that they 've been getting donations from the community and that 's been nice for them , '' says John .
`` I really applaud the refugees ; coming to another country as an escapee and then supporting that country 's people with donations like this… I think that 's brilliant . ''
For Jihyun and Timothy , it 's a privilege to be able to help .
`` The people of this country supported us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trauma , '' says Timothy .
`` Now the UK is our home we 're not just going to be the recipients of other people 's kindness - we are also going to support others going through difficult situations . ''
`` This lockdown has been terrible in many ways , '' adds Jihyun , `` but one positive is that it 's brought people together .
`` I 'm proud , and all the North Korean refugees living here are also proud , to be able to say thank you to the @ @ @

"My wife and I have been running this home for around 20 years and have never experienced anything like this," says John. "We first locked down in the first week of March. And at the moment, I can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. We don't know when it's going to end."


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Working from home: 'I'm a bit brainier than he thought I was'

What is it you do again ?
Before the coronavirus lockdown a lot of us did n't really know what our partner did at work .
Our eyes have been opened .
`` I was just mum , '' says Samar Small , looking back to life before lockdown .
Her family did n't give a second thought to what she did day to day .
Samar is a manager at Royal Mail , responsible for a range of things , including communicating with bulk buyers of stamps ( like the supermarkets ) , mail redirection services , and overseeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in May .
She usually works out of the Cardiff Mail Centre with colleagues hot-desking around her .
Since March she has swapped that for the kitchen table in her three-bedroom semi , with her husband and two teenagers milling around , picking up snippets of conversations involving big projects and huge sums of money .
`` They hear the figures being bandied round : 'What about that £2m ? '
It 's not what they expected , '' she says .
Her husband Stephen goes into work at weekends , in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do herself , so she has a good grasp of what he 's doing .
But it 's the first time he 's had much insight into what she does all day .
`` I 'm probably a bit brainier than he thought I was - dare I say it ! ''
she says .
`` It 's been a bit of an eye-opener , '' admits Stephen .
There are the stacks of spreadsheets , all the financial accounting acronyms , and the hours and hours on the phone to everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's been `` blown away '' , he says , by just how professional she is all round , her confidence in challenging other people 's plans if she sees a flaw , and her eloquence and firmness in meetings .
`` Most of us find that we get to know somebody perfectly well , and can love and live with them , and still not know what they do , '' says psychologist and executive coach Sue Firth .
`` It 's quite revelatory to see what your other half does .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ respect , she says , including when parents with jobs find out just how much work it takes to keep the house and children in order .
The learning curve has been steeper for some than others .
`` Kirsty '' from Sheffield estimates her police officer husband knew `` pretty much zero '' about her job as a financial consultant before lockdown .
( She did n't want us to use her real name because of her husband 's profession . )
`` He had no clue .
He struggled to tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
More than anything , he 's staggered by the level of responsibility she has , and the sheer volume of work on her plate .
`` [ Before lockdown ] he never understood why I was working so late .
He probably thought I was hanging out having a drink , '' says Kirsty .
Now her husband sees her working 12-hour days .
• Three surprising jobs you can do from home • What 's it like to start a new job when working remotely ?
As for her , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot more insight into his work , when every few minutes his police control centre radio is crackling into life .
Having a husband who is in the police means she 's already a bit `` hardened '' to what she hears , but the call-outs for suspected suicides are still always awful to hear and much more frequent than she expected .
He 's a detective constable , so has to collate files of evidence for the Crown Prosecution Service .
That means sitting on a laptop and liaising with colleagues on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There 's a lot of paperwork , but there 's the added pressure of dealing with people and events that are often shocking and unpleasant .
Kirsty admires the way he remains professional no matter what , and feels she 's getting a more realistic idea of what it is like to work on the frontline .
`` People do n't realise how busy they are , '' she says .
`` The stuff he has to see , to deal with day in , day out . ''
'Who even are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 're not just learning about what our other half does for a living , but how they go about it , and what their `` work personalities '' are like too .
`` I do n't think we ever know our 'work version ' of our partners .
Mine used the phrase 'sense check ' the other day , I was like 'who even are you ?
! '
, '' says Alison Hinchliffe from Mottram in Greater Manchester .
Her husband Scott works for an American company , and she says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on his Zoom calls .
He 's also seen a different side to her .
`` I work in arrears recovery for a social landlord , and obviously have a lot of worried and distressed people on the phone , '' says Alison .
She says she 's `` not a very sentimental person '' , so when Scott hears her on the phone , `` he laughs and says he never realised how much compassion I have '' .
Working from home wo n't always bring out the best in our partner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you find yourself living with the `` sergeant major '' version of your husband or wife it can cause friction .
For example , she says several of the executives she coaches are struggling to cope without the fix of adrenaline they usually get from being in the office environment .
`` Some are getting frustrated and are difficult to live with because what matters to them is winning , competition , control , '' she says .
Some of their spouses have had to issue ultimatums - you work in your study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't bring your phone .
Other executives she 's spoken to are tense and ca n't relax , which is n't easy for partners and kids either .
Sheri Jacobson , founder of psychotherapy clinic Harley Therapy in London , says such revelations do n't have to undermine a relationship if dealt with well .
`` It 's perfectly possible a person is a tyrant at work and a gentle soul at home , and you see both parts when you 're working from home together , '' she says .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and empathy it can be worked through . ''
Yet even if you only discover very positive traits in your partner , there is the risk of jealousy arising , if you see them getting on a little too well with a colleague for example .
`` Your partner will be pretty attuned to notice if there 's any romantic spark or flirtation going , '' Sheri warns .
But on a work level too , she says seeing your partner in super-efficient , super-connected mode can feel `` a bit threatening to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible to feel outdone by your partner because they have better abilities than you were aware of . ''
Fortunately , that could n't be further from the case for Mattia Zambaldi and Frankie de Tavora , who have been working alongside each other in their London flat .
They 've found plenty of things they do n't have in common .
He works for stadium management at Arsenal FC , she does n't like football .
He gets up punctually at 6:30am , she rolls up , interrupting his meetings , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nature '' and , working in hospitality , is used to an unstructured week .
He wears a body brace to ensure a healthy posture and insists on set meal times .
But they 're both gushing with admiration for the other 's abilities .
`` She 's very sharp , '' says Mattia .
`` She understands straight away topics that are not straight forward .
When it comes down to being professional , sometimes I wonder why she 's not at the top of a big company . ''
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` His dedication is clear to me . ''
She says Mattia is able to be both professional and genuinely himself at the same time , and has a vast array of skills .
She feels lucky that her future children will have a father with such knowledge .
And if the hours working side-by-side have taught them one thing , it 's that they want to spend more time together , not less .
So instead of going back to work , Frankie is considering returning to university .
That way she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But for some , there are downsides to spending so much time with your partner in a work environment .
`` I 've discovered a severe dislike of his music , '' says Alison Hinchliffe .
`` Phil Collins is awful .
I knew I did n't like him before but I ca n't stand him now ! ''

"Some are getting frustrated and are difficult to live with because what matters to them is winning, competition, control," she says. Some of their spouses have had to issue ultimatums - you work in your study, and when you come out you don't bring your phone. Other executives she's spoken to are tense and can't relax, which isn't easy for partners and kids either.


bbcuk--2020-07-06--Coronavirus: Two Metres of Separation

Coronavirus: Two Metres of Separation

As the coronavirus spread across the country , many industries have suffered and continue to do so .
One of those was the photographic sector , where photographers found themselves without assignments , so the team at Equal Lens , a non-profit organisation that promotes the work of women and non-binary photographers , launched an online competition called Two Metres of Separation .
Sophie Harris-Taylor 's picture of a bed in King 's College Hospital , London , has been selected as the winner .
It is a very personal picture as it is the bed in which she was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of countless women to have lain there before and since , surrounded by so many others going through the same experience - all just a couple of metres apart .
Each of them was screened , but hearing one another .
Alisa Connan 's picture was one of those selected as a runner-up and shows identical twins .
It is titled Born Together , Staying Together .
`` For them , living in close quarters is not a new concept , '' says Connan .
`` From sharing their mother 's womb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their lives .
Their bond is one that is stronger than most of us will ever know .
This image represents that deep connection at a time where we need it most . ''
The second runner-up , Gabrielle Motola , found ways to take pictures during the lockdown that ensured she maintained her distance .
`` While it may be tempting to go out and document what is happening on the street and to our society , it is far more important and helpful to abide by the guidelines and stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Motola .
`` So I turned my lens to the space I am in at home , and began documenting my daily life .
This is my housemate Jane about to do the ironing .
Our wonderful cleaner Kasha is no longer coming over to the house to clean , though Jane is still paying her weekly . ''
Here are some of the other pictures that were highly commended : '' One thing that showed the severity of the lockdown was seeing schools shut and all exams being cancelled , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between 16 and 18 were when I struggled with my mental health the most , and young people are now juggling a global pandemic alongside an even more elevated sense of uncertainty when it comes to their education and their future .
`` I 've been documenting the `` Class of Covid-19 '' , from two metres of separation , and speaking to local young people about how they 're coping with lockdown in their final year of school . ''
`` The images were made to accompany a film my friend made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , alongside footage filmed by various different people , all of which were created during lockdown , '' says Lentaigne .
`` We spoke about mental health , gender and lockdown difficulties , and positivity - and I will remember this day and shoot for the rest of my life . ''
Bria Woods is a portrait photographer and photojournalist based in Texas , and this photo is part of an ongoing series she is doing called The Front Steps Project .
Roughly 100-200 students are still living on campus at the University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socially distance .
Focusing on overlooked communities , this landscape series by Polly Tootal is a document of how the streets of north and east London reflect the crisis within them .
Looking at urban space located around the ring road A406 and surrounding areas , she searched for images which contain a social critique of these times .
Tami Aftab was working on a project photographing her Dad , who suffers from a short-term memory loss , before the pandemic hit .
Both of them are in high-risk groups , so she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
This image shows the artist tracing the shape of her Dad 's scar , finding ways to bring him into the landscape whilst they 're physically apart .

She was one of countless women to have lain there before and since, surrounded by so many others going through the same experience - all just a couple of metres apart. Each of them was screened, but hearing one another.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Coronavirus: 'Super Saturday' tales as bars reopen

`` It was so much fun .
Everyone was going quite hard because people were just so stoked to be there . ''
With England 's bars and restaurants open again for the first time in months , London 's West End sprang back to life on what many dubbed `` Super Saturday '' .
And for Kathryn Lennon , it was n't just her first night out in months , it was her first proper night out in the UK .
The 25-year-old had not long settled into her flat in Clapham , south-west London , and sorted out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when the coronavirus pandemic hit .
Then it was weeks of 18-hour days from `` hell '' , losing two or three patients a day , with no chance of a night out to release the tension .
Her family were thousands of miles away in Cairns , Australia .
• What are the new rules when I go to the pub ?
So it 's fair to say Kathryn was ready for it .
She slipped into high heels , left the mask at home - `` no girl is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into central London in mid-afternoon with friend and colleague , Dan Cahill , 23 .
`` It was phenomenal , '' she says .
`` We had such a great time .
It reminded me what life 's all about . ''
By evening , the streets around Soho and Oxford Circus were packed .
But having seen the effects of the pandemic at its height , Kathryn was reassured by the bar staff wearing masks and gloves , by their efforts to make clear the rules on distancing and remaining seated .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ plenty of space in bars .
But the old party atmosphere was back on the streets - time for an Abba singalong anyone ?
Social distancing had `` gone out of the window '' by the time they left at 22:00 BST .
It 's the sort of scene that prompted the chair of the Police Federation to raise concerns about people 's ability to follow rules .
However , police thanked the majority for acting responsibly .
Kathryn says : `` Life is about having fun and we 've all realised the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health point of view . ''
As Dan put it : `` To be with everyone else , in such a special atmosphere , makes me feel really happy knowing what we have done has made a real difference . ''
Saturday was always going to be a big one for recruitment consultant Michael Leszman , 23 .
Before lockdown , he would go for a drink three or four times a week .
Since then , he 's been restricted to the occasional socially distanced beer in a field .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a group of 15 , all belting out Sweet Caroline , '' he says .
So he was through the doors of the Horse and Well , in Woodford , Essex , before 13:00 , where tables were fully reserved .
His group of four did n't leave until closing time .
`` The vibe was a little bit different , '' he admits , with a Sunday morning croak in his voice .
`` The football was on and usually it 'd get quite packed in and people get a bit more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Often they have live music and they could n't do that .
So it was n't quite a normal Saturday night .
`` But we had a great night .
It was nice to be out and see a lot of people I have n't seen for a long time . ''
The chance of a night out might have come as a relief to drinkers , but how did the bar staff feel about it ?
On the other side of the bar ... Abby , 18 , a student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pints , taking food orders and waiting tables at the busy Yorkshire pub where she 's worked since last autumn .
But it was a very different workplace on Saturday , with table service only , restrictions on customer numbers and her job being limited to one duty - taking drinks orders - all night .
`` I was quite nervous to go back because we have a lot of older regulars and I was n't sure if they 'd want to follow the rules . ''
In the end , a younger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trouble .
`` There was a group of lads and they kept trying to slide over to talk to some girls on another table , so they got thrown out .
`` But apart from that , it was a nice atmosphere .
The music was low and it was nice to hear the chatter . ''
With fewer drinkers , and chairs and tables carefully sprayed before a new group arrived , cleaning up at the end of the shift was a quick job .
`` We were able to chill out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with workmates , which was really nice .
A lot of us were relieved as we thought it was going to be ridiculous with big queues outside . ''
Heading out was n't everyone 's idea of fun , though .
For the past few months , Eliza 's trips out have been limited to medical appointments and walking her dog , Pod - short for Podrick - around her local park in south-east London .
With multiple health complaints - including stomach issues , OCD and anxiety - and vulnerable family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a stressful experience returning an item to a shop .
So going to the pub just did n't feel worth the risk .
`` I do n't feel it 's safe , '' says Eliza , who did not want her full name used .
`` We need to be really careful and I would n't feel comfortable in an environment where [ the virus ] could potentially spread . ''
Instead , she and her partner , Michael , had friends round to enjoy an Indian takeaway and a few beers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really nice .
It was a bit grey but we cosied up under blankets and managed to keep the candle lit all night . ''
There was one element of Super Saturday she was n't going to miss out on , however : a trip to the hairdresser .
`` It was actually really lovely , '' she says .
`` They were wearing visors and had the door open , and I washed my hands when I went in and left .
It was really nice to be pampered for half an @ @ @

"We were able to chill out for a bit after closing and catch up with workmates, which was really nice. A lot of us were relieved as we thought it was going to be ridiculous with big queues outside."


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Coronavirus: Where can I go on holiday? A guide to destinations

The prospect of a summer holiday abroad has moved a big step closer , as the government eases quarantine rules in England .
From Saturday , the Foreign Office 's warning against all but essential international travel will be lifted for some countries .
And from 10 July , people returning to England from certain countries will not need to self-isolate .
The full list of the countries that are exempt from the quarantine rule is here .
For Europe 's most popular warm weather destinations , we 've got details of what to expect when you 're there .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• Where can I now go on holiday in the UK ?
Need to quarantine on arrival ?
No Need to quarantine when back in England ?
No Spain , including the Balearic Islands and the Canaries , is the most popular destination for Britons on their summer holidays , and 400,000 people from the UK own second homes in the country .
It 's had one of the strictest lockdowns in Europe , recording 28,355 coronavirus deaths up to the end of June .
But it has now entered the `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have reopened to tourists .
What restrictions are still in place ?
Visitors arriving from the UK will not be required to self-isolate - but you will have to undergo a temperature check .
People must stay 1.5m apart in public .
Everyone aged six and over should wear face masks on public transport , in shops and in public spaces where it is not possible to follow the 1.5m distance rule .
Different provinces in Spain can revert to previous stages of lockdown and introduce different measures .
Regional authorities have reintroduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People will not be able to enter or leave Segrià in Catalonia - a county to the west of Barcelona with a population of about 200,000 - without permission .
And only those travelling for work will be allowed to leave or enter the coastal district of A Marina , in Spain 's north-western region of Galicia , from 6-10 July .
Where can you stay ?
Hotels and other accommodation such as campsites and hostels are open - but they are required to put in place capacity limits so all guests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Spain , bars and restaurants are open but are only running at reduced capacity and must follow strict social distancing rules .
Exhibitions , theatres and cinemas have reopened but also at reduced capacity .
Outdoor concerts of up to 400 people are allowed but with social distancing .
Nightclubs can also open although capacity is limited .
To give an idea of what a night out is like in Barcelona , a popular party destination , people have to provide contact details , wear masks and the dancefloor has become a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go to the beaches , while most water parks , zoos , museums and theme parks are reopening or planning to in July , although with reduced capacity .
One of Spain 's most visited sites , the Alhambra Palace near Granada , has already welcomed back visitors .
Barcelona 's Sagrada Familia cathedral will reopen on 4 July although to local police officers and health workers first - with tourists welcome four days later .
How can you get there ?
The country is open to tourists entering by car , ferry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flights in must wear face masks , fill in a health card and undergo temperature checks .
Many major airlines are running flights including Ryanair , EasyJet and British Airways .
EasyJet has said it will be flying the majority of its routes this summer , and aims to have 75 % of routes up and running by the end of August .
Its website is taking bookings for July and August but prices vary widely , with many flights to Spain stretching to several hundred pounds .
Need to quarantine on arrival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport secretary , but has yet not been announced officially by France ) Need to quarantine when back in England ?
No France is the second-most popular country for UK visitors , with around 17 million crossing the Channel every year , and 200,000 Britons have chosen it as the place for a second home .
It began to ease its strict lockdown on 11 May .
President Emmanuel Macron declared on 14 June that France had won its `` first victory '' against the virus as he lifted more measures in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus deaths by the end of June .
What restrictions are still in place ?
France has a voluntary 14-day quarantine measure for travellers arriving from the UK - although it is expected it could be lifted when the UK officially lifts its quarantine .
People should remain 1m apart from others , and wear a mask if social distancing is n't possible .
No more than 10 people may gather in any public space .
You also have to wear a mask if you plan to travel by public transport .
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make a reservation in advance .
If arriving by Eurotunnel , travellers are being asked to fill out and carry with them a statement certifying that they do not have any coronavirus symptoms .
Where can you stay ?
Hotels , gites , and campsites are now open to the public , as well as private rental accommodation .
Bars , restaurants and cafes are allowed to open inside and outside areas , but they have to follow strict hygiene rules .
Customers are asked to wear a face covering when walking inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seated .
No service is allowed at the bar and a distance of 1m is kept between tables .
There is a limit of 5,000 people for large venues and strict health rules apply for shows and cinemas .
Nightclubs remain closed .
Beaches and parks have reopened , and you can now stay and sunbathe or have a picnic , and play non-contact sports .
River cruises will be allowed from 11 July .
Museums , monuments , zoos and theme parks are gradually opening their doors again - but a mask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tower started allowing visitors on 25 June .
Disneyland Paris begins a phased reopening on 15 July .
Some water parks have also set dates for when they will accept visitors again , with new rules in place .
For example Aqualand , which has eight sites across the country , has advised visitors to arrive in their swimming costumes .
How can you get there ?
It is once again possible to get to France by air , sea or train .
Eurotunnel has already attracted a record number of bookings over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduced service , with only direct trains to Paris .
It will resume trains to Disneyland Paris on 2 August .
The major airlines , Ryanair , EasyJet and British Airways , all have flights to France this month , although at a lower frequency than normal .
A variety of routes across the Channel are on offer from ferry companies P & O , DFDS and Brittany Ferries .
Need to quarantine on arrival ?
No Need to quarantine when back in England ?
No The first European country to be hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the third-most visited destination for UK travellers every year .
Italy , which surpassed 34,000 virus-related deaths in June , imposed one of the strictest and earliest lockdowns on 7 March .
It reopened its borders on 3 June to travellers from other European countries , although the mayor of the island of Capri has recently complained that visitors have n't been obeying the rules at its hotels and beaches .
What restrictions are still in place ?
The country 's tourist board has released an extensive list of guidelines for visitors this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sicily , Puglia and Calabria - tourists are required to register in advance .
People must stay 1m apart in public areas , including hotels and other communal spaces .
Holidaymakers over the age of six will need to wear a mask at all times in public spaces indoors , and outdoors where social distancing is n't possible ( except in Lombardy where a mask outdoors is mandatory ) .
On public transport travellers will be required to wear masks , while temperature scanners may be in operation at train stations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hotels , campsites , mountain huts and beach resorts have made arrangements to safely welcome visitors .
However , an Italian hotel industry trade report said 60 % had remained closed in June , while more than 20 % are expected to still be shut in August .
Bars , cafes , restaurants and gelaterias reopened on 18 May , but they are hosting reduced numbers of diners , with tables further apart and plastic shields to separate customers .
Masks must be worn when you go inside and anytime you get up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asking customers to provide their name and contact details before using their services .
Parks and beaches have reopened , along with swimming pools , although the tourist board says you need to wear a swim cap in a pool .
Most museums , galleries and archaeological sites are open , but entry must be pre-booked online .
Capacity has been vastly reduced at some major tourist sites , like the Colosseum in Rome and the Uffizi gallery in Florence .
Other attractions are opening later this summer , such as Verona 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event on 25 July .
Amusement parks , zoos , fun fairs and water parks are also open but entrance numbers may be limited .
How can you get there ?
Airlines running flights include Ryanair , EasyJet and British Airways , although the number of destinations and flights is markedly reduced .
Ryanair and British Airways were operating flights to Rome in June , while EasyJet is currently set to fly there from 17 July .
Need to quarantine on arrival ?
No , but UK travellers can not go until at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back in England ?
No Greece acted swiftly to impose lockdown in late February , and it was first eased in late April .
At the end of June , it had a total of 3,409 confirmed cases and a death toll of 192 , according to Johns Hopkins University .
Its tourism season officially began on 15 June and it has already opened its borders to some countries .
However , travellers from the UK can not fly to Greece until 15 July at the earliest .
Travellers from Greece do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still in place ?
People should aim to stay 1.5m apart and face masks must be worn on public transport - including flights and ferries - at airports , in lifts and in taxis .
Masks are also strongly advised in other closed spaces .
Travelling in a car or taxi is limited to a maximum of two adult passengers as well as the driver , although children do not count towards the limit .
Where can you stay ?
All hotels , campsites and Airbnb accommodation are allowed to reopen .
Hotels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific rules , including having a doctor on standby .
Reception desks must also be moved outdoors where possible , and food served in buffets must be placed under protective acrylic screens known as sneeze guards .
Read more on what Greek hotels might be like here .
Shops , cafes , bars , restaurants and nightclubs are now able to reopen but with limits on capacity .
No more than six adults can sit at a table together , although children are exempt .
Beaches and parks have also opened .
Swimming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in will depend on the size of the pool , while water slides may be shut .
Most tourist attractions , including museums , zoos , gardens and theme parks are up and running again , while archaeological sites such as the country 's world-renowned Acropolis in Athens have also reopened .
How can you get there ?
The major airlines are gradually reinstating flights to Greece this month , although some flights were cancelled after the Greek government extended its travel ban for UK citizens .
For those nationalities allowed to enter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also possible , although passengers will need to complete a health questionnaire before boarding or take temperature checks .
Travel by yachts and private sailboats is now allowed .
But cruise ships and ferries coming from other countries are banned from landing in Greek ports .
Need to quarantine on arrival ?
No , but travellers to Madeira and the Azores will be tested on entry Need to quarantine when back in England ?
Yes Portugal has had fewer coronavirus cases and deaths than some other southern European nations .
After initially lifting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rules following local outbreaks in Lisbon .
By the end of June , Portugal had recorded 1,576 deaths .
Its border is open to British citizens - but anyone going to Madeira or the Azores will face tighter health screening .
It is not exempt from the UK 's quarantine rule .
What restrictions are still in place ?
People must keep 2m away from others and there are capacity rules in shops and on public transport .
Face masks are compulsory in enclosed spaces such as shops .
Drinking alcohol in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and restaurants , is banned .
Gatherings are limited to 20 people , except for religious ceremonies and family events , such as weddings and christenings .
In Lisbon , there are tighter restrictions with gatherings limited to 10 people , limits on the sale of alcohol and shops having to close at 8pm .
If you are travelling to Madeira , Porto Santo or the Azores , there are further requirements including showing proof of a recent negative Covid-19 test or taking one on arrival .
Where can you stay ?
Tourism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Safe '' hygiene standard are allowed to open .
Restaurants , cafes and bars are allowed to open with capacity rules and 1.5m distancing in place .
Last orders are at 11pm .
It is up to the local area whether markets will open .
Beaches are open but with measures in place to limit capacity and people must stay 1.5m apart .
There is a mobile app to assess how full beaches are .
Water sports have also been given the green light .
Museums , art galleries , monuments , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as zoos .
How can you get there ?
Many flight routes between the UK and Portugal have already resumed .
Flights vary vastly in price , with a single Ryanair ticket from Manchester to Faro costing between £30 and £386 in July , although prices drop heading into August .
What about elsewhere in Europe ?
You can also return to England from these destinations without needing to isolate , as well as many others listed here .
Turkey : It reopened its borders to UK visitors on 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete a form before arriving .
Face masks are compulsory in crowded places and on public transport .
In certain provinces , face masks are compulsory at all times outside the home .
There remains an ongoing curfew for those aged over 65 , those born after 1 January 2002 , and those who have a chronic medical condition .
Croatia : Visitors from the UK must complete a form in advance and have proof of accommodation .
Restaurants , accommodation and beaches are open , along with pools and aquaparks , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gatherings are allowed and nightclubs can also open .
Passengers on public transport must wear masks .
Germany : The country is open to travellers from the UK , but people must keep a distance of 1.5m .
Face masks are required in some public spaces but it varies by state .
All shops , tourist accommodation and restaurants are open - but bars and cafes in some states are shut .
However , one area was put back into a local lockdown .
Netherlands : UK visitors are currently `` strongly advised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days on arrival .
Tourists must reserve accommodation in advance .
There is no maximum limit on the number of people allowed inside places including shops , museums and at outside venues like zoos and theme parks - provided people stick to 1.5m social distancing .
Face masks are mandatory on public transport for anyone aged 13 and over .
Nightclubs will not reopen before 1 September .
Belgium : Its borders are open to Britons .
Everyone should keep 1.5m apart from others and people aged 12 and over should wear a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars , cafes and shops are open but with strict rules , and tourist accommodation and activities can resume .
Swimming pools are still closed .
Switzerland : No travel restrictions for UK travellers .
Social distancing here is 2m .
Most places are back open including shops , restaurants , bars and cafes are open with a limit of four customers per table and tables 2m apart .
Passengers are advised to wear masks on public transport .
In the Alps , mountain railways and cable cars are running .

Coronavirus: Where can I go on holiday? A guide to destinations Published 27 August 2020
Image source, EPA Image caption, Beaches around Europe have seen an influx of holidaymakers since June when many countries lifted border restrictions
The prospect of a holiday abroad is on the cards again, after the UK government eased quarantine rules.
People returning to the UK from certain countries do not need to self-isolate. The full lists of the countries that are exempt from the quarantine rule are here for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Here are details of what to expect when you're in some of the most popular warm weather destinations for Britons.
Spain - back on quarantine list
Need to quarantine on arrival? No
Need to quarantine when back in UK? Yes
Spain is the most popular destination for Britons on their summer holidays, and 400,000 people from the UK own second homes in the country.
It had one of the strictest lockdowns in Europe, recording 28,355 coronavirus deaths up to the end of June.
Since then, its borders have reopened to tourists but it is currently facing the worst coronavirus infection rate in Western Europe. Daily cases have risen from fewer than 150 in June to more than 1,500 throughout August.
As of 26 July, people returning from Spain to the UK must quarantine for 14 days. In addition, the Foreign Office is now also advising against all but essential travel to Spain, including the Balearic and Canary Islands.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Some beaches - like Cala Aiguablava Beach near Girona - remain busy
What restrictions are in place?
Visitors arriving from the UK will not be required to self-isolate - but you will have to give your contact details and undergo a temperature check and health check on arrival at the airport.
People must stay 1.5m apart in public. Everyone aged six and over should wear face masks in public spaces where it is not possible to follow the 1.5m distance rule.
However, different provinces in Spain have introduced different measures. For example, masks are compulsory everywhere, even when the social distancing rule can be followed, in areas including Madrid, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.
Some areas have also reintroduced lockdowns after local outbreaks. In July, parts of Catalonia - including Barcelona - faced new restrictions, with cinemas, theatres and nightclubs temporarily closed.
Smoking in public spaces is also banned in areas such as Galicia and the Canary Islands.
Where can you stay?
Image source, Reuters Image caption, German tourists are greeted by receptionists at a hotel in Ronda, in Spain's Andalucía region
Hotels and other accommodation, such as campsites and hostels, are open - but they are required to put in place capacity limits so all guests can stay 1.5m apart.
What tourist attractions are open?
In most of Spain, bars and restaurants are open but are running at reduced capacity and must follow strict social distancing rules. Nightclubs are also open, although capacity is limited and people must provide contact details and wear masks.
Exhibitions, theatres and cinemas have reopened, again with reduced capacity. Outdoor concerts of up to 400 people are allowed with social distancing measures in place.
Visitors are able to go to the beaches, while most water parks, zoos, museums and theme parks have reopened to a limited number of visitors.
Two of Spain's most visited sites, Barcelona's Sagrada Familia cathedral and the Alhambra Palace near Granada, have already welcomed tourists back.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Spain's Alhambra Palace reopens to visitors
How can you get there?
The country is open to tourists entering by car, ferry, train or air.
However, some travel companies, including Jet2 and Tui have cancelled flights and holidays to mainland Spain, as well as the Balearic and Canary Islands, since the UK government changed its guidance.
British Airways and Ryanair continue to operate scheduled flights to Spain.
France - back on quarantine list
Need to quarantine on arrival? Not currently, but France has suggested measures are to be introduced
Need to quarantine when back in UK? Yes, quarantine measures were imposed on travellers arriving in the UK from France from 15 August at 04:00 BST
France is the second-most popular country for UK visitors, with around 17 million crossing the Channel every year. Some 200,000 Britons have chosen it as the place for a second home.
The country began to ease its strict lockdown on 11 May. President Emmanuel Macron declared on 14 June that France had won its "first victory" against the virus as he lifted more restrictions, which has recorded more than 30,000 deaths.
A quarantine-free travel corridor was established between the UK and France in early July, but after a surge in cases in August, the UK government changed its travel advice, requiring people arriving from France to self-isolate.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Tables and deckchairs are set out to respect social distancing on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice
What restrictions are in place?
People should remain 1m apart, and no more than 10 people may gather in any public space.
You also have to wear a mask in all enclosed public spaces. When travelling by train, you need to make a reservation in advance.
France is one of several European countries to tighten coronavirus restrictions in August, amid a rise in infections - particularly among younger people.
Paris and Marseille are among those areas now deemed so-called "red zones" - high risk areas where local authorities have extra powers to impose restrictions. In both cities, masks are now compulsory in all public spaces.
Where can you stay?
Hotels, gites, and campsites have reopened, as well as private rental accommodation.
Are tourist attractions open?
Image source, EPA Image caption, Disneyland Paris, one of Europe's top visitor attractions, has reopened
Bars, restaurants and cafes are allowed to open inside and outside areas, but they have to follow strict hygiene rules. Customers are asked to wear a face covering when walking inside, but this can be removed when seated. No service is allowed at the bar and a distance of 1m is kept between tables.
There is a limit of 5,000 people for large venues and strict health rules apply for shows and cinemas. Nightclubs remain closed.
Beaches and parks have reopened, and you can now sunbathe or have a picnic, and play non-contact sports. River cruises have been allowed since 11 July.
Museums, monuments, zoos and theme parks are gradually opening their doors again - but a mask is required to visit.
The Eiffel Tower started allowing visitors on 25 June. Disneyland Paris began a phased reopening on 15 July.
Some water parks have new rules in place. For example Aqualand, which has eight sites across the country, has advised visitors to arrive in their swimming costumes to avoid contamination in changing areas.
How can you get there?
It remains possible to get to France by air, sea or train. If arriving by Eurotunnel, travellers are being asked to fill out and carry with them a statement certifying that they do not have any coronavirus symptoms.
The major airlines, Ryanair, EasyJet and British Airways, all continue to fly to France, although at a lower frequency than normal.
A variety of routes across the Channel are on offer from ferry companies at reduced capacity, but since the re-imposition of quarantine measures in August, some companies have reduced passenger services.
Italy - welcoming British visitors
Need to quarantine on arrival? No
Need to quarantine when back in UK? No
Italy, which surpassed 35,000 virus-related deaths in July, imposed one of the strictest and earliest lockdowns on 7 March.
The first European country to be hit hard by the virus, it is the third-most visited destination for UK travellers annually.
Italy reopened its borders on 3 June to travellers from other European countries, although the mayor of the island of Capri has complained that visitors haven't been obeying the rules at its hotels and beaches.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Attractions like the Colosseum in Rome are open for business again
What restrictions are still in place?
The country's tourist board has released an extensive list of guidelines for visitors this summer.
In four regions - Sardinia, Sicily, Puglia and Calabria - tourists are required to register in advance.
People must stay 1m apart in public areas, including hotels and other communal spaces. In most parts of the country, holidaymakers over the age of six will need to wear a mask at all times in public spaces indoors, and outdoors where social distancing isn't possible. However, in Lombardy - the area around Milan, and the location of Italy's original coronavirus outbreak - a mask outdoors is mandatory at all times.
On public transport travellers will be required to wear masks, while temperature scanners may be in operation at train stations and airports.
Where can you stay?
Hotels, campsites, mountain huts and beach resorts have made arrangements to safely welcome visitors. However, an Italian hotel industry trade report said 60% stayed closed in June, with about 20% reportedly deciding not open their doors again this summer.
Are tourist attractions open?
Image source, EPA Image caption, Tourists at the Leaning Tower of Pisa have to wear face masks and an electronic device which sends out signals and sounds if anyone gets within 1m
Bars, cafes, restaurants and gelaterias reopened on 18 May, but they are hosting reduced numbers of diners, with tables further apart and plastic shields to separate customers.
Masks must be worn when you go inside and anytime you get up from your table. Many venues are asking customers to provide their name and contact details before using their services.
Parks and beaches have reopened, along with swimming pools, although the tourist board says you need to wear a swim cap in a pool.
Most museums, galleries and archaeological sites are open, but entry must be pre-booked online.
Capacity has been vastly reduced at some major tourist sites, like the Colosseum in Rome and the Uffizi gallery in Florence.
Amusement parks, zoos, fun fairs and water parks are also open but entrance numbers may be limited.
How can you get there?
Airlines running flights include Ryanair, EasyJet and British Airways, although the number of destinations and flights is markedly reduced.
Greece - Britons now allowed
Need to quarantine on arrival? No
Need to quarantine when back in UK? No
Greece acted swiftly to impose lockdown in late February, and it was first eased in late April. As of 27 August, it had a total of 9,280 confirmed cases and a death toll of 248, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Its tourism season officially began on 15 June and it has already opened its borders to some countries. But British travellers had to wait after a ban on flights from the UK was extended.
Since 15 July, British holidaymakers can now fly there, but may be asked to take a test and practice social distancing and self-monitor for coronavirus symptoms until they get a negative result (usually within 24 hours). If the test result is positive Greek authorities are likely to ask you to self-isolate for 14 days.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Greek islands like Santorini are a big draw for tourists
What restrictions are still in place?
People should aim to stay 1.5m apart and face masks must be worn on public transport - including flights and ferries - at airports, in shops, cafes, hairdressers, government offices, lifts and taxis. Masks are also strongly advised in other closed spaces.
Travelling in a car or taxi is limited to a maximum of three adult passengers as well as the driver, although children do not count towards the limit.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Restaurants and cafes have been open for a while in Greece
Where can you stay?
All hotels, campsites and Airbnb accommodation are allowed to reopen.
Hotels can run at capacity but they have specific rules, including having a doctor on standby. Reception desks must also be moved outdoors where possible, and food served in buffets must be placed under protective acrylic screens known as sneeze guards. Read more on what Greek hotels might be like here.
What tourist attractions are open?
Shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and nightclubs are now able to reopen but with limits on capacity. No more than six adults can sit at a table together, although children are exempt.
Beaches and parks have also opened. Swimming pools can open but the number allowed in will depend on the size of the pool, while water slides may be shut.
Most tourist attractions, including museums, zoos, gardens and theme parks are up and running again, while archaeological sites such as the country's world-renowned Acropolis in Athens have also reopened.
Image source, EPA Image caption, The Acropolis Museum in Athens has reopened
How can you get there?
The major airlines have gradually reinstated flights to Greece, although they had to cancel some flights in the first half of July when the Greek government extended its travel ban for UK citizens.
For those nationalities allowed to enter, travel to the Greek islands is also possible, although passengers will need to complete a health questionnaire before boarding or take temperature checks. It is obligatory to wear masks when travelling on all ferries, where capacity is limited to allow for social distancing.
Portugal - open despite local outbreak
Need to quarantine on arrival? No, but arriving in mainland Portugal you will be subject to health screening and travellers to Madeira, Porto Santo and the Azores will be tested on entry
Need to quarantine when back in UK? No
Like Greece, Portugal has had fewer coronavirus cases and deaths than some other European nations.
After initially lifting restrictions, it later reintroduced some of the rules following local outbreaks in Lisbon. As of 27 August, it had a total of 56,274 confirmed cases and a death toll of 1,809, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, British tourists usually flock to beaches like this one in the Algarve
What restrictions are still in place?
People must keep 2m away from others and there are capacity rules in shops and on public transport. Face masks are compulsory in enclosed spaces such as shops and on public transport for everyone over the age of 10.
Drinking alcohol in public places, except for pavement cafes and restaurants, is banned. Gatherings are limited to 20 people, except for religious ceremonies and family events, such as weddings and christenings.
The Greater Lisbon area is in a state of contingency due to localised outbreaks. Restrictions currently in place include gatherings are limited to 10 people, while shops have to close at 8pm.
Where can you stay?
Tourism accommodation that meets the so-called "Clean and Safe" hygiene standard are allowed to open.
What tourist attractions are open?
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Portugal has recently seen a rise in new cases around Lisbon
Restaurants, cafes and bars are allowed to open with capacity rules and 2m distancing in place. Last orders are at 11pm. It is up to the local area whether markets will open.
Beaches are open but with measures in place to limit capacity and people must stay 2m apart. There is a mobile app to assess how full beaches are.
Water sports have also been given the green light.
Museums, art galleries, monuments, palaces and historic buildings have all reopened, as well as zoos.
How can you get there?
Many flight routes between the UK and Portugal have already resumed.
United States
Need to quarantine on arrival? Yes, but British nationals are not allowed in anyway
Need to quarantine when back in UK? Yes
Holidays to the US are still not a likely prospect. British nationals are not allowed to enter the USA if they have been in the UK (or a number of other countries) within the past two weeks.
Those who are eligible to enter the US - such as US citizens flying in from the UK - must be prepared to quarantine for 14 days. Even US travellers arriving from some US states must quarantine.
And, since the US is not exempt from the UK's quarantine, anyone returning to the UK will have to self-isolate for 14 days. What's more, the Foreign Office still advises against non-essential travel to the US.
The US has reported more than 5.8 million cases of coronavirus, and more than 179,000 deaths nationwide, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Disney has shut its resort in Hong Kong, but its Florida one is open
What restrictions are still in place?
Well, it varies state by state. You can check individual states' rules here. A number of US states have now made face masks compulsory while in public.
Social distancing of 2m is recommended by the USA's Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Where can you stay?
Hotels are reopening across the country, the Foreign Office says, but there will be local rules on capacity.
What tourist attractions are open?
Again, it depends on the state. Shops, restaurants, bars, beaches and other leisure activities are likely to be following local regulations.
California - a popular holiday destination for Britons - reintroduced sweeping restrictions on 13 July following a surge in cases. It ordered all indoor restaurants, bars, shopping malls and cinemas to close again.
Churches, gyms, shopping malls, zoos, museums, hair salons and non-essential offices must shut indoor operations in some of the state's worst-affected counties, including Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, Florida - another popular destination - is fast becoming the centre of America's latest Covid-19 outbreak. However, its Disney World resort reopened with limited capacity on 11 July.
Image source, EPA Image caption, Supermarket chain Walmart announced it would make all customers wear masks
How can you get there?
Some flights are running between the UK and US, but on a reduced schedule and at higher than usual prices.
What about elsewhere?
You can also return to the UK from these destinations without needing to isolate, as well as many others listed here.
Turkey: It reopened its borders to UK visitors on 12 June, and passengers are required to complete a form before arriving. Face masks are compulsory in crowded places and on public transport. In certain provinces, face masks are compulsory at all times outside the home. Those aged over 65 (although this doesn't apply to those visiting for tourism) require a permit to travel between cities and must remain at their destination for a minimum of 30 days unless travelling for an international flight.
Germany: The country is open to travellers from the UK, but people must keep a distance of 1.5m. Face masks are required in some public spaces but it varies by state. All shops, tourist accommodation and restaurants are open - but bars and cafes in some states are shut. Travellers using Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg airport to return to the UK will transit France and therefore will be required to self-isolate.
Switzerland: Self-isolation rules might change soon for travellers returning from Switzerland to the whole of the UK, following Scotland's decision to tell people to self-isolate on their return. Social distancing here is 1.5m. Most places are back open including shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. Masks are compulsory when travelling on public transport, except for children under 12. In the Alps, mountain railways and cable cars are running.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--NHS anniversary: Applause for health service workers

Your amazing videos from the Clap for our Carers People all across the UK took part in a huge round @ @ @ @ @ , take a look at your amazing videos .

Applause rings out across the UK to pay tribute to NHS staff on the 72nd anniversary of the health service.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Body positivity movement: 'Why is my body not important'?

The body positivity movement has taken over social media and forced the diet industry to reinvent itself .
Its mainstream @ @ @ @ @ diversity in the beauty and fashion industries , but not all feel included .
Enam @ @ @ @ @ Nyome and Vanessa are plus-sized models and active members of the online body positivity community @ @ @ @ @ experienced exclusion and unequal pay .
They feel the movement fails to represent fat , @ @ @

The body positivity movement has taken over social media and forced the diet industry to reinvent itself.
Its mainstream success has lead to more diversity in the beauty and fashion industries, but not all feel included.
Enam, Kayela, Lyza, Nyome and Vanessa are plus-sized models and active members of the online body positivity community, who say they have experienced exclusion and unequal pay.
They feel the movement fails to represent fat, black women.
The BBC's Lorna Acquah reports
Filmed prior to the Coronavirus pandemic


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Meet the socially distant robot scientist

A robotic scientist - that could increase the pace of scientific discovery - has been developed by researchers at the @ @ @ @ @ technology is part of what the Royal Society of Chemistry has called a new digital @ @ @ @ @ organisation says that artificial intelligence and robotics will be vital in keeping research and development @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus treatments - moving quickly at a time of social distancing , when fewer human @ @ @ @ @ get back into their labs .

A robotic scientist - that could increase the pace of scientific discovery - has been developed by researchers at the University of Liverpool.
The technology is part of what the Royal Society of Chemistry has called a new digital age for science.
The organisation says that artificial intelligence and robotics will be vital in keeping research and development - including the search for coronavirus treatments - moving quickly at a time of social distancing, when fewer human scientists will be able to get back into their labs.
Video by Rob Wood, Victoria Gill and Rachael Buchanan


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Coronavirus: 'Very different' reopening of National Gallery

Five tips to help get your car out of lockdown Have n't used your car in a while ?
Here @ @ @ @ @ you get going again .

The National Gallery is reopening on 8 July after being closed for more than 100 days because of coronavirus.
The BBC's Will Gompertz has been behind-the-scenes, to see what awaits art lovers.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Coronavirus lockdown easing: Crowds in London's Soho celebrate

'It 's good to have a proper pint' Drinkers in Newcastle talk to the BBC about how different it is @ @ @ @ @ pub again after lockdown .

There were large crowds in London's Soho district as pub-goers celebrated lockdown easing in England.
While much of the capital remained quiet, some places saw revellers gathering late into Saturday night.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--The Papers: Lifeline for UK culture and stamp duty 'holiday'

The Times reports that the Treasury has drawn up plans to temporarily exempt most homebuyers from paying any stamp duty @ @ @ @ @ when buying some properties .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak will reveal plans to lift the threshold @ @ @ @ @ paid from £125,000 to as much has £500,000 .
Elsewhere , it pictures the prime @ @ @ @ @ treated him for Covid-19 at an event celebrating the NHS 's 72nd birthday .

The Sun says the money should help venues cover wage costs - including those of freelance staff who've missed out on other help from the Treasury - but that it's still unclear how freelancers can claim it.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Hancock 'worried' over Leicester clothing factory practices

Matt Hancock has said he is concerned about working practices in some clothing factories in Leicester , which is under local lockdown .
Speaking on the BBC 's Andrew Marr Show , the health secretary said he was `` very worried about the employment practices in some factories '' in the city .
Leicester was put on local lockdown on Monday after a spike in Covid-19 cases .
Mr Hancock told Sky 's Sophy Ridge he was `` very worried '' about the number of infections in Leicester .
He confirmed the government has already shut down businesses during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a link between employment practices in Leicester and the outbreak there , Mr Hancock described guidance for employers as `` statutory guidance '' backed up by fines .
`` There are clearly some problems that have been under the radar in Leicester that need action , '' he told the BBC .
Speaking on Sophy Ridge on Sunday , Mr Hancock said : `` We 've seen outbreaks in clothing factories and in food factories and there are some quite significant concerns about some of the employment practices in some of the clothing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems to deal with .
`` We also have the authority to shut down the business if it does n't follow the guidance . ''
On Thursday , online fashion retailer Boohoo defended its business practices after a workers ' rights group said staff at Leicester factories that supply the group were at risk of coronavirus .
Labour Behind the Label said workers were `` being forced to come into work while sick with COVID-19 '' .
Boohoo said it had `` terminated relationships '' with factories over the treatment of workers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The Boohoo group will not tolerate any incidence of non-compliance especially in relation to the treatment of workers within our supply chain . ''
The group said it would investigate the allegations and take any necessary action .
A HSE spokesperson previously said : `` In Leicester we are actively investigating three textile businesses , have recently contacted 17 and undertaken three site visits .
`` Enforcement action is being taken at one of these sites and further spot inspections will take place in the area in the coming days and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are the rules now ?
• BUBBLES : How do they work and who can be in yours ?
• JOBS : Can my boss force me to go to work ?
• SYMPTOMS : What are they and how to guard against them ?
• FACE MASKS : When should you wear one ?
• TESTING : Who can get a test and how ?
Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram .
Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews @ bbc.co.uk .

Speaking on Sophy Ridge on Sunday, Mr Hancock said: "We've seen outbreaks in clothing factories and in food factories and there are some quite significant concerns about some of the employment practices in some of the clothing factories in Leicester, they are important problems to deal with.


bbcuk--2020-07-05--Bobby Storey funeral: Stormont motion 'to call for Sinn Féin apology'

MLAs from four of the NI Executive parties are expected to sign a motion criticising Sinn Féin ministers over their attendance at the funeral of senior IRA figure Bobby Storey .
The motion calls on Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Finance Minister Conor Murphy to apologise .
It has been drawn up by the DUP , UUP , Alliance and the SDLP .
First Minister Arlene Foster said the motion is a signal `` there can not be a toleration for double standards '' .
But she has insisted that she did not break social distancing guidelines .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the Covid-19 emergency and pays tribute to those who selflessly prioritised the need to keep each other safe , particularly during times of trauma , loss and grief .
It goes on to express disappointment about the actions of those ministers who it claims breached public guidance and implores the public to continue to follow the coronavirus regulations .
Mrs Foster , the DUP leader , said Ms O'Neill and `` her Sinn Féin colleagues must take responsibility for the health regulations being undermined '' .
`` We are all frustrated and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sinn Féin stand isolated and without support because of their selfish and arrogant behaviour .
The mask of integrity , respect and equality has well and truly slipped . ''
Appearing on the BBC 's Sunday Politics programme , Justice Minister Naomi Long voiced her support for the motion .
She said Ms O'Neill owes the NI Assembly an explanation for `` the damage done '' by attending the funeral on Tuesday .
Mrs Long said Ms O'Neill had `` not lived up to '' her responsibilities as deputy first minister .
TUV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a no confidence motion in the deputy first minister , demanding she resigns .
• How a republican funeral sparked a crisis at the heart of NI 's government • No prospect of Stormont falling after funeral row The Alliance Party leader also told the BBC 's Sunday Politics programme that she had sympathy for First Minister Arlene Foster 's stance on standing side-by-side with Ms O'Neill at coronavirus-related press conferences .
On Thursday , Mrs Foster said she could not currently `` stand beside '' Ms O'Neill and `` give out public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attendance at the funeral .
`` I think it would be very difficult at this point to stand on a podium and give other people advice when the person you share that podium with has n't taken that advice , so I understand entirely where Arlene is coming from on this , '' Mrs Long said .
`` We are in a crisis .
`` People are upset , they 're angry , our constituents are in touch with us and they are clearly upset and angry , but it is a sensitive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant thing from the Naomi Long interview was the emphasis that the assembly is owed an explanation .
We now have the four executive parties , not including Sinn Féin , all united in backing a motion which effectively will call for an explanation from the Sinn Féin ministers that attended Bobby Storey 's funeral and call for an apology .
Whether they 'll get that is uncertain .
Michelle O'Neill was repeating ad nauseam , in a press facility at the end of last week , that she does n't believe that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's going to be very hard for her to go back on that .
If this is just a temporary situation where the assembly exercises their differences on this , but then gets back to work , that 's one thing .
But if it ends up being a set position which affects the kind of decision making they take in the next few weeks , that 's going to be a bigger problem .
`` Of all the things we 've asked people to do , watching your loved ones make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been the most difficult .
I know that we 're dealing with grieving families , and I include in that Bobby Storey 's family , so we need to tread lightly on these issues but it is important that if you make the rules , you are seen to keep those rules .
`` It 's about confidence between the public and the executive in terms of the things we may have to ask them to do again later this year if there is a second spike and will they treat the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they had to date .
`` I hope they do but we need acknowledgement of that from Michelle and an apology for the damage done . ''
An executive meeting on Friday was `` tense '' , Mrs Long said .
She said she told the deputy first minister that she needed to `` reflect on her position '' and give a `` fulsome apology '' but what she gave `` was somewhat short of that in that it did n't acknowledge the responsibility for her actions '' .
Mrs Long added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attended an event which got out of control in terms of numbers .
This was a Sinn Féin-organised event , the stewards were from Sinn Féin , so they knew it was going to be a large gathering before she went and she made a conscious choice to be there , when it was contrary to the regulations and to the advice . ''
Mrs Long said the coronavirus guidelines were in place to keep the people of Northern Ireland safe .
`` We do n't do these things because Sinn Féin ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things because Michelle O'Neill asks us , we do these things because it keeps ourselves , our families and our communities safe and we need to continue to respect the regulations .
`` She has , I think , to make up for that credibility gap now and that 's a job I think all of us would support her in trying to take that forward . ''

"Of all the things we've asked people to do, watching your loved ones make their final journey alone or almost alone has been the most difficult. I know that we're dealing with grieving families, and I include in that Bobby Storey's family, so we need to tread lightly on these issues but it is important that if you make the rules, you are seen to keep those rules.


bbcuk--2020-07-06--Coronavirus: Outdoor venues 'thrilled' to reopen as five-mile limit ends

Families and friends are able to reunite and enjoy outdoor attractions as travel restrictions are lifted in Wales .
The `` stay local '' guidance , asking people to stay within five miles of home , has ended , with no limits on travel .
Outdoor attractions have also been allowed to open , with owners saying they were `` thrilled '' to return .
Two households will also be able to stay together indoors and overnight .
This relaxation of lockdown restrictions comes as the number of coronavirus cases continues to fall .
But First Minister Mark Drakeford has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about where we go and why '' .
• Pubs and restaurants to open outdoors from 13 July • The story of Wales ' 100 days in lockdown Mr Drakeford called for people to follow the `` golden rules '' if further restrictions are to be lifted : • Work from home whenever possible • Keep apart from other people - the two-metre rule still applies in Wales • Meet people from one other household outdoors Despite the request to avoid unnecessary travel , from Monday there is no longer a limit to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attractions were looking forward to welcoming visitors for the first time in 13 weeks .
Zip World said it was `` thrilled '' to be reopening its north Wales sites in Bethesda and Betws-y-Coed , although some of its other attractions remain closed for now .
`` Our vast outdoor spaces and the self-contained nature of our sites lend themselves naturally to socially responsible measures , meaning we can create a safe environment for locals and visitors to the area , '' said a spokesman for the adventure company .
As Snowdon reopened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media campaign to make visitors aware of how to keep themselves safe and protect wildlife .
Staff at the National Botanic Garden of Wales at Llanarthne , Carmarthenshire , which celebrated its 20th birthday during lockdown , said they were confident about safety .
`` Huge thanks to all our members , visitors , staff , volunteers , friends and everyone for sticking with us through these strange and difficult times , '' they said .
`` With 568 acres [ 230 hectares ] , we 're more than confident we can meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notice some changes which are designed to keep everyone safe . ''
They asked visitors to expect queues as they carefully control the flow of visitors .
Travel restrictions were introduced across the UK at the start of lockdown in March , although Wales kept its travel restrictions longer than the UK government did in England .
Tourist hotspots in Wales - such as Tenby in Pembrokeshire - were preparing for an influx once the restrictions are lifted .
Mayor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall admitted there had been a dilemma between balancing the need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the safety of both locals and visitors .
`` It 's very daunting at the moment - obviously people are very worried , but there are two sides to that - people want to be safe , but also we need to support our businesses , '' he said .
`` Tenby relies heavily on tourism , which in turn provides jobs for the local community .
If we 're not allowed to open , there will be no jobs and a lot of businesses will close by the winter . ''

Coronavirus: Tourism hopes in Wales as five-mile travel limit ends Published 6 July 2020
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This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Outdoor attractions welcome back day trippers
Families and friends are able to reunite and enjoy outdoor attractions as travel restrictions are lifted in Wales.
The "stay local" guidance, asking people to stay within five miles of home, has ended, with no limits on travel.
Outdoor attractions have also been allowed to open, with owners saying they were "thrilled" to return.
Two households will also be able to stay together indoors and overnight.
This relaxation of lockdown restrictions comes as the number of coronavirus cases continues to fall.
But First Minister Mark Drakeford has called for people to think "carefully about where we go and why".
Mr Drakeford called for people to follow the "golden rules" if further restrictions are to be lifted:
Work from home whenever possible
Avoid unnecessary travel
Keep apart from other people - the two-metre rule still applies in Wales
Wash your hands often
Meet people from one other household outdoors
Despite the request to avoid unnecessary travel, from Monday there is no longer a limit to the distance people can travel.
Outdoor attractions, including Wales' national parks, were looking forward to welcoming visitors for the first time since March.
'Have a Plan B ready'
Image source, David Rowles Image caption, The Brecon Beacons are open to visitors again from Monday, with walkers asked to have a 'plan B' in case it gets crowded.
The Brecon Beacons were open to visitors again on Monday morning, except the area around Llyn y Fan Fach.
A spokeswoman for the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said they were looking forward to "providing a warm Welsh welcome", but reminded visitors to plan ahead.
"Although footpaths and car parks are open, many associated facilities are not," she said.
"Please remember that if it feels too crowded, it is too crowded and have a 'plan B' ready for your visit."
The National Park Visitor Centre building remains closed, but toilets will be open to the public and information staff will be based outside.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, What do eased travel restrictions mean for me?
A spokeswoman for Brecon Mountain Rescue said teams had been training for the past few weeks with use of personal protective equipment (PPE) specifically in the mountain environment.
"We're hoping that people will be sensible and gradually get themselves safely back into the mountains, but there may be an increase in calls towards the weekend," she said.
"If something was to happen, there could be a limited response of mountain rescue members, due to trying to limit the amount of members on the hill and minimise risk of covid to everyone involved."
She reminded visitors to stay within their limits, ensure they have the right equipment with them, to plan ahead and check weather conditions.
Meanwhile, as Snowdon reopened, Snowdonia National Park ran a social media campaign to make visitors aware of how to keep themselves safe and protect wildlife.
This Twitter post cannot be displayed in your browser. Please enable Javascript or try a different browser. View original content on Twitter The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Skip twitter post by Snowdonia NPA Allow Twitter content? This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’. Accept and continue The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. End of twitter post by Snowdonia NPA
Zip World said it was "thrilled" to be reopening its north Wales sites in Bethesda and Betws-y-Coed, although some of its other attractions remain closed for now.
Commercial director Andrew Hudson said: "We are outdoors In the fresh air. But there is a lot of planning behind the scenes to ensure people's safety. We've gone to great lengths to protect people while they're here."
Visitor Tony Martin, from Oldham, celebrated his 73rd birthday there today.
"They've been absolutely brilliant as regards safety measures and managed to combine that with a good welcome. I had happy birthday sung to me in Welsh at the top so that was absolutely brilliant," he said.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Zip World says social distancing can be easily enforced at its "vast" sites
Staff at the National Botanic Garden of Wales at Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire, which celebrated its 20th birthday during lockdown, said they were confident about safety.
"Huge thanks to all our members, visitors, staff, volunteers, friends and everyone for sticking with us through these strange and difficult times," they said.
Image caption, The National Botanic Garden of Wales is only allowing 500 visitors a day - on Monday morning, visitors were already turning up
"With 568 acres [230 hectares], we're more than confident we can meet all the social distancing guidelines but you will notice some changes which are designed to keep everyone safe."
They asked visitors to expect queues as they carefully control the flow of visitors, which they are limiting to 500 each day.
'We were running out of things to do'
Image caption, Hayley Graham, from Barry, said it was "wonderful" to visit Duffryn Gardens again.
At Duffryn Gardens in the Vale of Glamorgan, visitors said it was "amazing" to be be able to walk around the National Trust site again.
Mum Hayley Graham, from Barry, said: "To be honest we were running out of things to see and do so to be able to come back is wonderful."
Rebecca Williams, assistant director for the National Trust in Wales, said: "The Trust is delighted to be able to welcome visitors back to places they enjoy.
"We know how much our properties mean to people and how much they've missed them during the lockdown."
Head gardener Chris Flynn said a skeleton staff of just four looked after the 90-acre site during lockdown instead of the usual 16.
"We had such a fantastic spring and it was very strange not to have people here to enjoy it. We're very pleased to be able to welcome people back now," he said.
'People want to be safe'
Image caption, Tenby is among the places expecting visitors as the restrictions end
Travel restrictions were introduced across the UK at the start of lockdown in March, although Wales kept its travel restrictions longer than the UK government did in England.
Tourist hotspots in Wales - such as Tenby in Pembrokeshire - were preparing for an influx once the restrictions are lifted.
Mayor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall admitted there had been a dilemma between balancing the need to kick-start the local economy while also maintaining the safety of both locals and visitors.
"It's very daunting at the moment - obviously people are very worried, but there are two sides to that - people want to be safe, but also we need to support our businesses," he said.
"Tenby relies heavily on tourism, which in turn provides jobs for the local community. If we're not allowed to open, there will be no jobs and a lot of businesses will close by the winter."
Back in the air
Image source, Cardiff Airport Image caption, The terminal at Cardiff Airport has officially reopened to all passengers
It is not just restrictions on roads and rail that have been lifted - Cardiff Airport has officially reopened to passengers, with flights to Spain and Portugal on Monday.
A single flight from Spain flew out of the airport on Friday, against Welsh Government advice.
But now operations are back with with industry support.
Operator Ryanair has been the first airline to restart services, with Vueling and Eastern Airlines also resuming in July.
"Having passengers back has been great," said director of operations Ceri Mashlan.
"A lot of work has been put in place to ensure we follow all the guidance."
Strict social distancing measures have been introduced, along with other coronavirus measures:
Face coverings must be worn in the airport, by both passengers and staff
Plastic screens are in place at customer service points
Air stewards will be on duty throughout the terminal spaces to offer advice and reassurance