Queries regarding accepting bookings for the Easter period, in self-contained holiday accommodation

Visit Wales have advised that any bookings that fall beyond the 21 day review period – next review 12 March – are at that business’s and the customer’s own risk. No bookings can be taken ahead of 12 March.

The final decision on reopening will depend on the public health position at that time and therefore WG cannot give any guarantees that self-contained accommodation will be allowed to open and what travel and household rules will apply. Accommodation Operators are therefore reminded that any bookings that fall beyond the current 21 day review period (which ends on 12 March) are at that business and the customer’s own risk.  No bookings can be taken for the period up to 12 March.

With regard to booking enquiries from England, England’s COVID-19 Response update  (published by UK Government on 22 February) states that;

• From 29 March, people will no longer be legally required to Stay at Home. Many of the lockdown restrictions, however, will remain in place. Unless an exemption already applies, it will not be possible to meet people from other households indoors and many business premises will remain shut. Guidance will set out that people should continue to work from home where they can. People should continue to minimise travel wherever possible, and should not be staying away from home overnight at this stage.
• From 12 April (earliest), overnight stays away from home in this country [England] will be permitted and self-contained accommodation – those that do not require shared use of bathing, entry/exit, catering or sleeping facilities – can also reopen, though must only be used by members of the same household.

Scotland’s COVID-19 strategic framework update was published 23 February with further details to be set out in mid-March including the indicators that will guide decisions on levels, and the expected order of the reopening of the economy and restricted businesses. Under current Level 4, non-essential travel to countries outside Scotland is not permitted.  

Northern Ireland’s update is expected to be published on Monday 1 March.

Alongside the position in Wales, it is important to consider the restrictions that apply in their respective countries, when fielding booking enquiries from prospective guests.