Turkey’s Safe Reopening for International Visitors
As Turkey prepares to welcome international visitors in mid-June, it has introduced a new “healthy tourism certificate” program. This initiative aims to ensure that its airlines, transport, accommodations, beaches, and historic sites are safe for tourists this year.
To instill confidence in visitors, Turkey will issue certificates recognizing compliance with stringent health and hygiene requirements. These certifications will be granted by international certification institutions. Consequently, hotels, restaurants, and transport facilities will need to implement hygiene and social distancing measures while regularly sterilizing vehicles.
According to Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Turkey’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, “Our certification program shall ensure that our guests in Turkey are going to make their holidays safely and hygienically and feel comfortable during their visit. Our program covers preventive and protective steps including air, marine and land transportation, arrival ports, all facilities providing a holiday experience, health condition of employees in the industry, and tourists themselves.”
Moreover, new safety protocols will require passengers to wear masks from check-in to check-out when flying, and they will undergo temperature screenings prior to boarding. Additionally, travel industry employees will receive regular screenings along with hygiene training and equipment. Turkey has already reopened its hotels and tourist attractions, as well as domestic flights and intercity travel since June 1, with plans to fully open for international visitors mid-June.
Lockdowns are easing globally as the world adjusts to a new normal. Stay informed on how COVID-19 is changing travel regulations and safety measures worldwide.
