People all over the world are currently dealing with life in lockdown, as nations implement various measures to flatten the curve and mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Recently, several destinations have announced plans for lifting some of the stricter measures, sparking discussions about when travel will become an option once again. Consequently, the European Commission has outlined guidelines to resume travel and reboot tourism in 2020.
As stated in a press release, “As soon as the health situation allows, people should be able to catch up with friends and family, in their own EU country or across borders, with all the safety and precautionary measures needed in place.” This announcement aligns with a set of guidelines aimed at helping member states gradually lift travel restrictions and enable tourism businesses to reopen safely.
The outline indicates that reduced virus circulation may prompt European countries to transition from broad restrictions on free movement to more targeted measures. This phased approach will begin by lifting restrictions between areas and member states exhibiting similar epidemiological situations. Thus, travel between areas with improving conditions will take precedence, guided by information from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
The initial phases of reopening will exhibit variations in restrictions across countries. Austria, France, Switzerland, and Germany are among the countries that have recently announced they will begin easing border restrictions, with June 15 identified as a potential date for allowing international tourists. Countries are establishing their own measures, such as Spain, which has declared that visitors will be required to isolate for two weeks upon arrival, and Iceland, where travelers have the option to choose between isolation and a test upon arrival.
Furthermore, the EU guidelines tackle the restoration of transport services, including air, rail, and waterways across the EU, while emphasizing the importance of protecting the health of both transport workers and passengers. Notably, the implementation of voluntary, transparent, and cybersecure tracing apps is also encouraged.