Travellers urged to 'respect' communities as tourism leaders say people should not feel coerced into being tested

Tourism leaders have said that people shouldn’t feel pressured into being tested for coronavirus before travelling but urge everyone to ‘respect’ the communities that they visit.

The warning has come in anticipation of the May Day bank holiday weekend when hundreds of people are expected to make the most of the newly relaxed travel restrictions.

An increase in Covid-19 cases in Moray had prompted health chiefs to warn of a “perfect storm” for further spread of infections but tourist leaders have said that everyone still should be able to travel provided they are “responsible”.

Marc Crothall, Chief Executive of Scottish Tourism Alliance, said: "As we've always said, we would like everyone to be responsible while enjoying the hospitality that is open, the industry certainly needs the money and the local support.

“The main message, particularly if you're heading outdoors to the more rural areas, is just respect the communities that you're in, be responsible and enjoy the hospitality.”

Asked if he thinks there is a need to enforce a rule that everyone must be tested before travelling, he responded: “People certainly shouldn't be thinking that they have to take a flow test before they travel anywhere in the country to enjoy what's on offer.

“Everyone is free to travel anywhere, even the Islands. The Government asks people, if they can, to do a flow test but there is no requirement, it's not the law, so we're just asking the public to be responsible.”

Travellers urged to 'respect' communities as tourism leaders say people should not feel coerced into being tested before going.

A spokesperson for VisitScotland said that while it won’t be “business as usual”, people must remember to respect communities and act responsibly across the country.

They said: “With the latest consumer survey showing an increase in confidence to book a trip in Scotland, and travel restrictions eased across the country, there might be a greater number of people out and about this bank holiday weekend.

"If venturing out everyone must ensure to respect, protect and enjoy our countryside, towns and cities responsibly.

"While many attractions, restaurants and pubs have reopened, restrictions remain in place and visitors should be mindful of planning ahead, following Scottish Government guidance and booking before making their journey.”

Tourist leaders have urged people to respect the local communities they visit while on holiday.

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