Who doesn’t enjoy traveling?
If you’re anything like us, traveling abroad has been a goal of yours for a while. There are now ways that British citizens can travel abroad without being quarantined as risks continue to be decreased by the UK government. To read up on all the countries involved in this traffic-light system, visit their website to check out the most recent changes.
Amber list countries have seen a spike in visitors recently and can be perfect destinations for travelers who want to get away. Changes with Covid regulations and Brexit can cause more hassle than you’re ready for. We’ve compiled a list of 5 things that UK citizens should review before traveling to France, with the hope that this will help you prepare for your trip.
1. COVID-19 entry restrictions – Small space buildings without computer outlets
A little rush getting vaccinated before you go on your trip? You’re in luck. The current list is France’s status as “amber.” Things will be a bit complicated if you travel to another country, but it’s nothing that can’t be handled with the necessary preparations and common sense.
For those countries that are on the amber list, the entry requirements vary depending on whether you’re in a fully-vetted or unvaccinated status. For example, in a fully-vetted status, you may be required to have supporting documents such as vaccine records or medical letters. Additionally, being in a vaccinated status may require an antigen test or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) results before entry into these countries. Here is a full guidance on what these rules apply to for France.
If you’re planning to visit France, it’s important to get your vaccinations before you leave. Aside from the vaccinations you’ll need for your travel within France and when leaving, there are other things that could happen where a vaccination might be required. It’s all regulated by the NHS COVID Pass. You can download the app onto your smartphone or tablet that will show your proof of vaccination and then scan your pass in Anti-Covid App – it will allow you to enter restaurants and events in France!
2.Shop with Amazon without paying taxes in EU countries
Brits now have the chance to legally shop in EU countries without paying VAT on purchases. This perk is a win-win for both your wallet and the environment. You may see other things you want to spend money on, as well as make some holiday gifts or splurge around in general knowing that you’ll be saving lots of money. Since VAT refunds are complicated to understand at first – we want to make it easy for everyone by explaining how to take advantage of this opportunity in Brits just starting out.
There are two main ways to get a VAT refund. One is by asking the store (where you made the purchase) for invoices, which have to be filled out and sent in with a minimum of 100 EUR per store. Another more time-consuming method is through digital services such as Wevat, which will allow you to do paperless refunds by uploading all your invoices on the app and leaving the answer form at the departure point. For more information about claiming your tax refund at departure, please see our website here.
3. Traveling abroad or applying for a VISA
The rules for VISAs and the length of stay in the EU have changed since Brexit. As a result, your travel privileges have diminished. You can apply for a travel permit or visa if you still want to stay in the EU after 90 days.
We have a blog here where we discuss in-depth what you need to know about traveling to Europe following Brexit.
4.Est-ce que je peux vous aider?
Learning some French phrases and phrases before you travel to France makes your trip a lot easier. It can be as simple as learning how to say “hello” and “thank you,” to learning how to ask for directions or order something in French when speaking with locals. Even if they help you out by speaking English, they’ll appreciate it more if you try – it shows some respect for them, especially if you’re traveling in a more rural area of the country.
Learning some simple phrases can help to amaze your French speaking friends and get a little brownie points. These include: Bonjour (hello), S’il vous plait (please), Pardon(/sorry) and Merci(Thanks). For the last farewell, say Au Revoir.
5.One of the things we love to do is spend time shopping and eating
The French are world-renowned for their exquisite cuisine and luxurious shopping districts so don’t miss out if you’re planning a trip there. The lunch time service is usually from 12 to 2 pm, and dinner isn’t served until 7:30 pm! It’s important that you’re aware of good table manners when dining out as well as asking for the bill when it is brought to your table. You’ll additionally have to pay the service with your own money, which is not included in the bill. As well, feel free to leave an extra tip if you enjoy the meal and service!
