Trip to portugal

[REC]

Don't know if this will help anyone, as things are changing rapidly!
If going through the tunnel from Folkestone, be aware that both the slip roads from A260 and onto M20 if coming from Canterbury are closed. Have to go back up the M20 to Ashford then shown back towards folkestone to exit at 11a. Avoid services at Folkestone (the exit from M20 was blocked anyway, but accessible from Canterbury) Nobody wearing masks, had to stop to find out which way to go!!
Long queues for passport control, nobody on either Uk or French wanted to see anything except our passports. Had sworn covid declaration, reason for travel and residence paperwork ready....not even a question !
Travelling on toll roads only through France (except n10 Poitier to Bordeaux) stopping x2 nights in motorway aires. Across Spain in one hit, via main roads stopping at Portuguese border for one night. Then into our little barn, miles from anyone. Don't have to isolate, but will anyway
Will update on paperwork, borders or any issues.

 

[REC]

Oh and 11c sunny and currently dry on route

 

[Tezza33]

So pleased you have arrived OK

 

[REC]

So pleased you have arrived OK

Not there yet, but by 23/12! ....Just thought we were not getting on the tunnel when all the roads were closed! But of a panic, then.

 

[mariesnowgoose]

Well done, Ruth, safe journey!

Here's a couple of young van life do-er uppers, following in your footsteps

 

[Tezza33]

Not there yet, but by 23/12! ....Just thought we were not getting on the tunnel when all the roads were closed! But of a panic, then.

Sorry Ruth, I read the bit about safely in our little barn and got excited, enjoy the rest of the trip

 

[REC]

Will finally be trying out the poynting aerial! Seems such a lifetime ago.

 

[Tezza33]

Let me know how it goes

 

[Derekoak]

If I were you Ruth I would not spare the horses! I am sure you already are. The sooner you get into Portugal the better.

 

[Trotter]

I've had to cancel my trip. 'Spose I'm depending on you to enjoy myself by proxy. Have a great Christmas. We'll meet in Portugal, eventually.

 

[witzend]

You got away just in time

COVID-19: Europe closes borders to UK travel over new COVID variant fears

The new strain is thought to be up to 70% more infectious than the original variant.

news.sky.com

 

[Derekoak]

Ruth has to get through 2 more borders yet! If she succeeds she may be one of the last Brits in.

 

[jagmanx]

I believe Ruth has residence status in Portugal and a house...so IMHO likely to be OK But........

 

[mariesnowgoose]

@REC - Ruth has escaped just in time, well done lass and good on yer!

Relying on you and @Pauljenny to keep us up-to-date with what's happening over there and seeing the rest of us through the ongoing misery with cheerful & funny stories from sunnier climes...

 

[REC]

Does look like we left at the right time! Can't see what a 48hr suspension of the tunnel will achieve though....covid test would be a more effective prevention?

 

[REC]

Just crossed into Spain, no checks at all! Went through toll then saw the Espania sign! Quite shocked at how nobody cares? It is sunny here , Pyrenees look lovely...raining and cold at our place in Portugal. Another day and it will change....hopefully!

 

[jagmanx]

That is great..I thought there was a slim chance Spain would not play ball.
Cannot see Portugal refusing entry given your status.
Glad it all seems to be working for you.

 

[REC]

Surprised no checks at all...freedom of movement within EU will be sadly missed after first Jan! Thought covid checks would be in place, given the current situation.

 

[Pauljenny]

She who dares...wins..!
Go girl go !
If it gets too cold, our guest pitch is unoccupied..
But give it a week or two, Eh ?
We're in perpetual quarantine here...
Don't want any foreign bugs in the neighbourhood..

 

[REC]

We plan on isolating for another six days minimum on arrival. Haven't had social contact with anyone except mum since leaving tier 2 suffolk on 18/12. Used two packets of antibacterial wipes already as clean the van handles doors and cab surfaces every day plus twice in contactless fuel fillups. Dave thinks I am over the top, but infection control was ingrained in oncology training, so he gets wiped down too