Lockdown has left us with little option but to enjoy the sun from our own back garden this summer. A one-week heatwave had to suffice. But staycations only go so far to satisfy a nation of sunseekers – cocktails in York don’t quite match the feeling of tropical sand between your toes.
But the ability to go abroad is quickly becoming a viable option for Brits, as lockdown measures wind down. A post-lockdown holiday may look a little different from what we’re used to, but with the government’s instruction of ‘green zones’ and safe travel corridors, the temptation to pack our swim shorts and bandeau bikinis and hit the airport is stronger than ever.
Following five months of lockdown, a list of countries that were excused of the ‘all but essential travel’ rule was published on the 4th July. The government identified these destinations as areas that “no longer pose an unacceptably high risk for British travellers”. This meant that people returning to the UK from certain locations after 10th July would not have to self-isolate for two weeks.
The list is continually under review, changing the exceptions based on the risk that each location poses in relation to the coronavirus. Trips should always be planned with GOV UK guidance in mind. But, with the option to get away from the dismal weather of these British Isles, we’re starting to think: where should we go on holiday?
It’s fair to say for some the lockdown has been a retreat of its own. Furlough has certainly created a slower way of life, one that concentrates on how we live our days and not what we do with them. This way of living reflects the idealistic behaviours of ‘Blue Zone’ residents around the world. Now that holidays are on the table, travel to these Blue Zone regions is set to be popular. Unsurprisingly, these areas of good health are on our confirmed travel corridor list. So there’s never been a better opportunity to go and explore the healthiest places in the world.
What are ‘Blue Zones’?
Blue Zones are distinct areas across the planet in which their population are able to live longer and maintain a healthier lifestyle compared to everywhere else. These areas are diverse, spreading from Italy to Japan, where Blue Zone residents practice a way of living that is unique to their region. This lifestyle dramatically improves the quality and longevity of their lives, with some areas showing the best life expectancy scores in the whole world.
Of course, a blue zone lifestyle has many steps. Residents of blue zones exercise regularly, enjoy their days slowly, sleep for a healthy amount of time, and contribute positively to their local community.
A good diet also contributes to this lifestyle, with less meat and alcohol. Spirituality also plays a part.
Although foreign travel is not something that these residents take part in often, so you may want to consider how you travel and how often you do it. Relaxing somewhere else is beneficial, but ensuring that we keep our planet healthy and making our own community a perfect environment to live in is also essential.
Lockdown has allowed us to explore a wildly different lifestyle to one that we may never have experienced. Many of us want to learn how we can keep this lifestyle up even after returning to normal. When we next get away, think about these blue zone destinations and what they can offer you.
Idyllic getaway in Icaria, Greece
Via Shutterstock By Sergey Kilin
Since the change in lockdown rules, the government has maintained that Greece is an area “exempt from the FCO advice against all non-essential international travel”. The country has always been a popular location for Brits and is set to be an essential destination for those who get away.
The island of Icaria can give you that perfect Blue Zone experience, if Greece is a destination that tickles your fancy. The island is famously referred to as a place where people ‘avoid Alzheimer’s’, and residents usually live long and healthy lives. We’re sure you won’t forget this holiday. The area is held in high regard by the global community for its good air, water, and sense of community. It has been discussed in literature as early as the 1600s.
The island may also be a welcome and quiet retreat for those looking to escape the busy hustle of popular tourist destinations like Mykonos and Kos. This isolated and calm island is known for its good health but also for its beautiful beaches, amazing forests, and other areas of natural beauty.
Sun set Sardinia in Italy
Via Shutterstock By Romas_Photo
The early impact of the coronavirus was shocking, especially in Italy, where the nation experienced a surge of infections. But after controlling the pandemic, Italy is ready to welcome tourists back with open arms. Italy is also exempt from ‘essential travel’ only rule.
Sardinia may be the perfect getaway for those seeking a Blue Zone retreat away from the pressures of life. The second-largest island in the Mediterranean sea has claimed its Blue Zone title from is encouragement for calm lifestyles and improved diet. The diet, which mainly includes whole-grain bread, fruit and vegetables, and fish, is considered as the main reason that residents of this island have such an unusually long life expectancy.
If you fancy getting your teeth into some famous Blue Zone food, Sardinia is the ideal location for your first post-lockdown holiday. The historic town centres, quiet beaches and amazing landscape have so much to offer you when you visit.
Say okay to Okinawa in Japan
Via Shutterstock By shikema
If you’re looking to travel a bit further afield, a holiday to the heavenly island of Okinawa might be on the cards. Again, Japan is an approved destination that Brits can travel to following lockdown, and this island is one of the best Blue Zone destinations that the country has to offer.
The white beaches and rich blue seas surrounded by full forests should be enough to persuade you to travel to Okinawa. But with residents living to the average age of 84, the lifestyle on this island may have more benefits than just being a welcome retreat. Okinawa wears its Blue Zone badge with pride, especially with a grandiose name like ‘land of the immortals’. Japan is the perfect destination to escape the fast-paced nature of life in the UK, and this island has the cure to our stresses.
We all need a holiday after the hardship of 2020. And the chance to get away to the healthiest, calmest, and sunniest places is increasing every day. Just keep an eye out for any updated travel advice. If it’s safe to travel, all you need to do is make sure that you have an amazing time and come back feeling refreshed and enriched!