Coronavirus diary, Tuesday 28 July

Life has become livelier, more entertaining this week for people in Wales. After months weeks of lockdown we can get out and enjoy ourselves - apart from oldies like me.

First Minister Mark Drakeford decided it was safe to lift a whole raft of restrictions.

So what can you do?  

If you're feeling energetic, what about a walk along the lovely Wales coastal path - there are 870 miles - or through country woods, a visit to Snowdon - watch out for the parking, restricted following recent chaos when hundreds of cars blocked the roads.

You can now drive anywhere so you may want to go back to your favourite seaside resort. They will certainly be glad to see  you, especially if you take a break or holiday there.
You can choose between camping, caravan site, modest B&Bs or luxury hotels,

You can enjoy attractions as varied as funfairs, pleasure arcades - I used to love spending a handful of tuppences - museums and art galleries.

If you are adventurous you can go underground at a coal mine or down caves (check they are open). 

Keen to get fit? There's swimming - outdoor and indoor pools -  tennis, soccer, golf and playing or watching cricket - Glamorgan play Somerset in the first game of the season.

The cinemas are open again but probably few theatres because of the space restrictions.

Your hairdresser or barber will be delighted to spruce you up and beauty parlours are open again.Tattoo artists are back in action.

You are probably already enjoying proper shopping and, unlike England, not having to be masked.

You can worship at your church but not sing hymns, and you will be disappointed if you are a singer that choirs are still silenced.

If you want to get away from it all overseas you have a problem. It will be a gamble.

After naming scores of countries considered safe to travel to the government decided at the drop of a hat to wreck the holiday plans of millions who have chosen Spain.

Memories... Bob's late wife, Rosemary, in Palma, Majorca

Those already there will have to go into quarantine for two weeks when they return. Every day thousands more are cancelling bookings.

Bob with his granddaughters, Majorca, 30 years ago

The government is standing by its decision, citing outbreaks in parts of the mainland, but public and tourist industry pressure over the sudden blanket ban - the Spanish islands are seen as safe but covered by the quarantine - may lead to change another U turn.

Bob, sister Dorothy and Rosemary, mainland Spain

Almost a full life again and more restrictions may go soon - Mr Drakeford may give us some more good news later this week about pubs and clubs.

What a relief. 

But there is still the warning. Coronavirus has not gone away as shown by recent outbreaks in some towns.

So make the most of the new found freedom. Long may it last.