The Canary Islands could be set to ditch Covid rules including face masks and social distancing by June, in a huge boost for Brits planning Spain holidays this summer.
Under current Spanish rules, face masks are mandatory on public transport, in most indoor public spaces, and also outdoors when social distancing can't be maintained.
Meanwhile the islands operate an 'alerts system' that determines the severity of restrictions in specific regions; for example, Tenerife and Gran Canaria are in levels three and four respectively, which includes capacity limits in venues such as bars and nightclubs.
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However the Canaries' Public Health Director, José Juan Alemán, told local media that Covid restrictions could be lifted by June, in time for the carnival in Tenerife's Santa Cruz.
He also confirmed that the Canaries' traffic lights system - which determines the severity of restrictions in specific regions - would be set to "disappear", although he didn't specify a date.
Mr Alemán told COPE Radio : "The probability of a new variant of the coronavirus causing the same problems as before is very low, and it is perfectly feasible that there will be street parties and dancing, probably without masks, at the Santa Cruz carnival in June."
He added that "before long the traffic light of alert levels in the Canary Islands is going to disappear".
Spain has already been easing its Covid travel rules in recent weeks, which also impact travel to the Canaries and Balearic Islands.
For example, while previously the country only welcomed fully vaccinated Brits for holidays, this month it eased rules to allow unvaccinated Brits to visit if they have proof of Covid recovery.
The rules apply to anyone aged 12 or over, although in recent weeks Spain also eased rules for unvaccinated teens aged 12-17, who can now visit provided they have a negative PCR test result and are travelling with vaccinated adults.
Other rules such as filling out a pre-travel form and needing a QR code to show at border control are still in place.
It's also worth noting that to qualify as fully vaccinated, you need to have completed your vaccine course within 270 days (or nine months), otherwise you'll need a booster jab.
The good news for Brits who are eyeing up holidays in Spain is that, because it's a popular destination, there are plenty of deals on offer.
For example, TUI recently launched discounts of up to £150 off Spain getaways, while easyJet has flights under £20 each way.
We've also got you covered with a guide to the latest holiday deals we think you'll love - including other hotspots like Greece, France and Portugal - as well as a round-up of the best cheap flights to have on your radar.
Travel restrictions can change quickly during the pandemic. Always check the latest Foreign Office advice for a destination before booking or going a trip abroad.
