Vietnam is preparing to lift its travel restrictions for international tourists almost three months earlier than planned, meaning holidays could soon be back on the cards.
The country's authorities have approved a proposal to lift border restrictions from March 15, marking the first time it will reopen fully to holidaymakers since March 2020.
Currently, Vietnam has suspended visa waivers and the entry of foreign nationals, although it is open to handful of tourists provided they are on government-approved group tours.
This week it already took a step towards easing restrictions after the government lifted a ban on international flights.
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According to state-run local media, international tourism will be able to restart fully from next month, although there will still be entry requirements in place.
For a start it will only reopen to tourists who are fully vaccinated, which includes having received their complete vaccination course within 12 months before the date of entry, and at least 14 days before travel.
Those who can show proof of recovery from Covid will also be able to visit.
All travellers will also be required to take Covid tests before their flight; this can be either a PCR test within 72 hours of travel, or an antigen test within 24 hours.
All arrivals will then receive a second test in Vietnam and must quarantine for one night in an approved hotel while waiting for their result.
Travel restrictions can change quickly during the pandemic so if you are thinking of a trip always check the latest Vietnam travel advice before booking or going abroad.
Vietnam isn't the only country to be looking to reopen its borders to tourists in the coming months.
Australia recently revealed that it would be welcoming back vaccinated Brits from February, while New Zealand has unveiled a phased reopening plan which could see the majority of Brits able to visit for holidays from July.
Meanwhile, there has been an increasing number of countries scrapping Covid tests for vaccinated Brits, including popular European holiday spots such as Portugal, Greece and France.
The latest UK travel rule changes have also seen restrictions eased for travellers.
Fully vaccinated arrivals no longer need to take any Covid tests, meaning they simply need to fill out a pre-departure form.
Meanwhile self-isolation has been scrapped for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers, although they will still need to take a pre-departure or post-arrival Covid test.
Do you feel confident in booking a holiday abroad this year, or are travel restrictions putting you off? Let us know in the comments below.
