Portugal is planning an 'air bridge' with the UK - here's what that means, and when it could be open

The country of Portugal has announced it is considering allowing UK visitors to its shores this summer, with a so-called 'air bridge' linking the two nations.

Portuguese foreign minister Augusto Santos Silva described travel quarantines as "an enemy of tourism".

Here's everything you need to know:

When might I be able to travel to Portugal?

Foreign minister Augusto Santos Silva announced that he hoped an agreement between the two countries would be in place by the end of June.

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel is due to tell MPs later that plans for a mandatory 14-day quarantine for arrivals - due to begin on 8 June - is necessary "to prevent a second wave of the virus".

That would mean the earliest the any 'air bridge' could be in operation by is 22 June.

So, business as usual?

Not quite.

Even if the planned 'air bridge' does go ahead, there will still be social distancing measures in place when you land in Portugal.

Mr Santos Silva said "rules" would be in place to ensure people can holiday safely, and suggested that nightlife in Portuguese resorts this summer would be limited, with gatherings of people not allowed at night.

Tourists would be warned how full beaches are, so they could avoid crowded spots.

Hotels and apartments would also have to comply with standards set by the tourism board before they are labelled as "clean and safe".

Temperature checks will be in place at airports, and "random testing" on passengers is being considered.