Mask rules that were brought into because of the coronavirus pandemic are chasing around the world. Rules in Wales currently mean that they only have to be worn in healthcare settings.
The latest three-week review of rules has been carried out and while Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford has said the public health situation is improving following the recent spike in cases due to Omicron but that keeping face coverings as a mandatory requirement in health and care settings will help to protect to some of the most vulnerable people in society, staff and visitors. You can read more about the review here.
While rules have also relaxed in many European holiday destinations, there are still some that require you to wear masks in certain settings.
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In France, where masks were once required even in outdoor settings, they are now only needed on public transport and in hospitals. Wearing masks on public transport is compulsory for everyone aged six and over. You could be fined if you don’t comply with this rule. the same rules now apply
The rules are similar in Spain and Portugal with them being required if you are using public transport. In Spain you also need to wear a mask in pharmacies and medical centres.
Greece, however, has said that masks in most indoor settings will stay until at least June 1. Italy still requires them to be worn in all indoor public places – though there have been suggestions that this may change later this month.
The Foreign Office advice says: "It is mandatory to wear a mask in all indoor public spaces, in all areas of Greece. In certain areas, such as in supermarkets and pharmacies, and on public transport, you will be required to wear either double masks."
In Austria, medical-grade masks are also still compulsory in some public spaces, such as supermarkets. Wearing a medical-grade mask remains a legal requirement in retail outlets.
In Germany, certain regions requite you to wear a mask on public transport in Germany. In Turkey, you don't have to wear them in restaurants, but are still required if you are in a cinema, concert or on public transport.
Other worldwide spots that have quite strict restrictions are Egypt, Morocco, Thailand, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, Cuba, St Lucia and Barbados among the holiday hotspots that retain strict rules.
Countries in Europe where you don't need a mask:
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Romania
- Slovenia
- Sweden
Where you have to wear on public transport
- Belgium
- France
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Montenegro
- Portugal
- Spain
- Switzerland
Some travel operators such as airlines may specify types of masks to be worn on board, and may encourage you to take spares for long journeys. The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice is to check with your travel operator before travelling.
