While the notion of a summer holiday is still some way off, there are early promising signs from countries easing restrictions for British tourists.

Countries including Cyprus, Greece and Turkey have signalled they would be happy to welcome British tourists back this summer, whether vaccinated or not.

Last week, France announced it was easing entry restrictions for British travellers, indicating that perhaps summer holidays might be possible.

However, it’s just one part of a complex puzzle. All international travel is currently banned in the UK until 17 May at the earliest; plus there are currently strict inbound travel restrictions in place, including Covid tests and quarantine, whether at home or in a hotel.

Here’s what you need to know about travelling to France.

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Previously, Britons had to prove they had one of 21 official reasons for entry into France, which applied to civil servants, hauliers and French citizens and their families, among others.

British visitors will still have to present a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours before departure, as well as a déclaration sur l’honneur form to confirm they are not suffering with Covid symptoms and haven’t been in contact with any confirmed cases. They will also need to present a signed travel certificate, confirming their reasons for travel.

In theory, the easing of travel restrictions could open the door for British tourists to holiday in France this summer.

Shops and services, including libraries, are open, but must close at 6pm. Hospitality venues including bars, restaurants, cinemas and museums remain closed.

Healthcare workers in and around the French capital say the ICUs are close to being overloaded.

There are many restrictions that will need to be dismantled before a summer holiday in France is possible.

Firstly, all non-essential outbound travel from the UK is banned until 17 May at the earliest. In addition, inbound restrictions, including Covid testing and quarantine, will also need to be relaxed.

Trials have started on a limited digital ‘vaccine passport’ in France. The month-long trial will be run by Air France on flights between France and the territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique.

The pass is being trialled as a phone app, to which passengers can upload a negative Covid test result or a vaccination certificate, reports The Local.

Separately, the European Commission is set to publish proposals on a “digital green pass”, which will facilitate travel around Europe.