Slo Travel: Explore the wonders of green-listed Slovenia and Slovakia
Watch this: Slovenia is easing restrictions for tourists
While foreign travel advice seems to be changing by the day, it's hard not to feel excited by the news that Slovenia and Slovakia - two very different but both Slavic, central-European and utterly beautiful countries - are now on the Green List.
Because while both tend to be lesser-known to British tourists, they should definitely be on your travel hit list.
Here are just a few of the highlights Slovenia and Slovakia have to offer...
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Views don't get much more fairytale than at Slovenia's Lake Bled - where a church stands on an island in the middle of a mirror-like, turquoise lake, with the dramatic Julian Alps in the background.
Read more: Slovenia is easing restrictions for tourists. Here's what to know...
You can row or paddle board on the lake in summer, and ice skate over it in winter - but be aware that you'll join plenty of other visitors, both foreign and local.
The High Tatras, Slovakia
You can hike, ski or climb your way around this glorious mountain range, packed with spectacular peaks and rolling vistas.
Hire a local guide who can help you explore the miles of mountain paths - with their help you might even be able to spot wildlife, including bears.
Ljubliana, Slovenia
Slovenia's postcard-perfect capital city is a gorgeous place for a mini-break. You can stroll through the pretty, pedestrianised Old Town, take a boat along the river or hike up to the hilltop sixteenth-century Ljubljana Castle for incredible views.
Bojnice Castle, Slovakia
This romantic, medieval fortress looks like something straight out of a Disney film. Sitting high above a historic spa town, surrounded by dense greenery, it features a Golden Hall and even a swan pond.
Piran, Slovenia
Do you love the wonderful architecture in Venice and Dubrovnik, but don't love the heaving crowds of tourists both attract? Don't miss a trip to Piran, perched on a peninsula on the Adriatic coastline. For 500 years, Piran was part of the Venetian Republic, and you can see the influence in its buildings.
Get lost in the picturesque warren of the Old Town, sip drinks in sunny squares and explore old Gothic churches. What's not to love?
Spis Castle, Slovakia
Standing on a high hilltop overlooking over the rolling valleys of eastern Slovakia, the 12th century Spis Castle was completely abandoned in the 1700s.
The vast, atmospheric ruins are a great place to come and soak up the panoramic views while contemplating the march of history.
The Soca River, Slovenia
This emerald-coloured river flows for 86 ridiculously scenic miles through the Julian Alps, crossing Western Slovenia and Italy.
Join the throngs of adventurous types who gather here for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canyoning - with a side order of jaw-dropping views.
Bratislava, Slovakia
A mixture of illustrious medieval, Gothic and baroque architecture - mixed up with far starker communist-era buildings - Slovakia's capital Bratislava is steeped in visible history.
Head to the Old Town's main square (pictured) to soak up the vibe with a coffee.
Watch this: Flying car takes first inter-city flight in Slovakia
