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China

Shanghai ends its eight-week 'zero-covid' lockdown

While the draconian measures are now almost entirely lifted, questions remain on how long the country can stick to its strict "zero-covid" approach.

United Kingdom

'Crowded parties, excessive drinking': Partygate report blames leaders

Civil servant Sue Gray's inquiry blames "senior leadership" for a culture that led to lockdown-breaking parties at the UK prime minister's office and residence.

Travel News

Do you still have to wear masks on planes in Europe? It’s complicated

Masks are no longer mandatory on EU flights - but around half the bloc still insist on them.

Health news

‘Pandemic within the pandemic’: Is Europe underestimating long COVID?

Millions of people across Europe could be suffering from long COVID. Experts want more resources to be put into investigating the condition and how to treat it.

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Panic buying grips Beijing supermarkets after lockdown rumours

Beijing residents rush to supermarkets as Chinese officials try to curb mounting panic over a rumour the capital would be placed under stay-at-home orders.

Destinations

India is open again but where should you explore first?

India has plenty to offer besides the Golden Triangle and the Taj Mahal. Get off the beaten track in these lesser known destinations.

Health news

How do you get a reluctant Briton, German or Italian vaccinated?

Protection against COVID-19, the right to eat out or to travel abroad: a study looked into what might sway vaccine-hesitant adults across eight European countries.

Destinations

Greece has scrapped all COVID entry rules before the summer holidays

Here's how travel and domestic restrictions have changed in Greece from May, and when indoor masks are likely to be lifted.

This will impact your life

Europeans have decided COVID-19 is over. It isn't.

In a short space of time, governments have lifted most restrictions meant to contain the deadly virus.

New Zealand

New Zealand welcomes back tourists as pandemic rules eased

Tourism has opened to about 60 visa-waiver countries, including much of Europe, more than two years after international tourism stopped altogether.

Health news

EU says up to 80% of population has now been infected by COVID

While the number of infections and deaths from COVID is dropping, EU member states are being urged to step up vaccinations, particularly for children.

No Comment

Beijing residents queue for tests

Beijing on Tuesday launched mass coronavirus testing for nearly all its 21 million residents, as fears grew that the Chinese capital may be placed under a strict lockdown like Shanghai.

Travel News

Only 2% of people in UK quarantine hotels tested positive - watchdog

A new report from Parliament’s watchdog has found that the UK’s travel restrictions were costly, confusing and not demonstrably successful.

Spain

Spain lifts some facemask rules, Cyprus to ease COVID measures

Masks will still be mandatory for visitors and staff in Spanish medical centres and nursing homes, as well as on public transport.

Travel News

Passengers cheer as US mask mandate is lifted on public transport

Mask wearing during flights is no longer compulsory in the US from Monday 18 April.

Food and Drink

What wines do UK politicians drink?

The Government Wine cellar is a mine of English still and sparkling. And don't forget the Welsh!

United Kingdom

UK PM Boris Johnson fined over Downing Street lockdown parties

The British prime minister and finance minister Rishi Sunak were given six fines between them for breaking the government's own COVID regulations.

Germany

German MPs reject bill to make COVID vaccines mandatory for over 60s

In total, 378 MPs voted against the bill, while 296 supported it.

Travel News

Spain entry rules: Has the country opened up to unvaccinated Brits?

A ‘spectacular blunder’ by the Spanish tourism office has led to uncertainty for unvaccinated Brits.

Destinations

Sweden is the latest EU country to scrap all entry rules

The government has dropped Covid certificate and test rules for even unvaccinated tourists.