Coronavirus has brought the world to its feet. As a precautionary measure, various countries around the globe implemented lockdown on their people. But now after 3 months of lockdown, some countries are beginning to welcome international visitors back to their shores.
Just like in India where unlock one has begun, and you can now travel via flights and trains domestically. There are some countries that have not only opened international flights but will also start hosting tourists from across the world soon. Easyjet plans will resume flights in mid-June, whereas, Ryanair and British Airways will offer holiday-makers flights from July.
Even though we can’t travel abroad, it is good to know that some of our favorite destinations will be ready when restrictions to travel abroad will be lifted in our country also. But before that make sure you buy travel insurance online. This insurance policy is necessary given the circumstances we are living in. Given below is the list of countries that are reopening or are considering reopening their borders to international visitors:
Italy
Anyone who wants to go to Italy will be happy to know that the country will be open to international visitors from 3 June. From this date, tourists don’t need to get quarantine on arrival, however, this depends on whether there is a spike in new cases or not. Many cafes, restaurants, and bars are opening with proper social-distancing measures. Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island is encouraging tourists back to the sun-drenched island by reducing accommodation rates.
Iceland
The government of Iceland has announced that it might ease international restrictions from 15 June. However, from 15 May some professionals already began arriving in this beautiful country. Professionals like filmmakers, scientists, and athletes who have agreed for a modified quarantine. The government hasn’t made an exact decision on international travelers, but it is expected to give travelers the choice between a two-week quarantine or a test for the virus on arrival.
Greece
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that their country will reopen its doors to international visitors from 15 June. He further added that visitors will not have to be quarantined on arrival, nor they need to undertake a coronavirus test. The main airport of Greece, Athens International Airport, will open from July 1, with lifted restrictions on all international flights. Lifting the restrictions on tourism will increase employment and the economy because tourism accounts for 20 percent of Greece’s GDP.
Portugal
One of the worst affected countries in Europe, Portugal has now slowly started opening bars, hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants. International tourists will be happy to know that now they can travel to the country. You only have to go through some health checks at airports, but you don’t have to get quarantined on arrival. Portugal, which is famous for its beaches, will reopen from 6 June with social distancing measures in place. There is a new app on which people can see the live number of people on a beach at any given time.
Let’s hope we get to travel to these beautiful countries soon. But remember when you are packing your bag, make sure you have packed essentials and travel insurance in your backpack.