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Greece will open to tourists from 14 May, the Greek Tourism Minister has said – although they will need to provide proof of full vaccination, Covid-19 antibodies, or a negative test to enter.
Speaking at the International Tourism Fair ITB Berlin on 9 March, Haris Theoharis said that the country was “more than optimistic” and “ready” to receive visitors.
“We aim to open tourism by 14 May, with specific rules and updated protocols. Until then, we will gradually lift the restrictions if conditions allow,” he said, reports the Greek Reporter, adding that those working in the Greek tourism industry would be prioritised for vaccination after the vulnerable.
A pilot programme for reopening tourism is likely to start next month, open to EU residents and third countries with advanced vaccination rollouts, such as Israel.
Random testing will be used at points of entry into Greece, much as they were last summer. However, rapid tests should make the process quicker and easier.
Mr Theoharis stressed that coronavirus-related extra costs, such as hospitalisation, would be borne by the state and not the tourist.
Visitors will be expected to abide by the same rules as locals though – for example, following guidelines about mandatory mask use in public spaces.
“Now we are close to the exit from the dark tunnel, thanks to the power of the human spirit and the progress of science,” said Mr Theoharis.
“For 2021 in Greece we are more than optimistic. We are ready. We are ready to share the experience of liberation from the unpleasant memories of the pandemic with each of our guests.”
However, he stated that all easing of measures was subject to infection rates and other factors.
In response to the news, David Child, head of brand for Thomas Cook, said: “Greece is the most popular holiday destination for our customers this summer and it’s great news that the country is going to be so welcoming to Brits once international travel is allowed.
“We expect to see continued high demand for Greek holidays throughout the summer and would hope we could encourage people to stay even longer this year well into late-autumn and beyond given the later start to the season.”
Thomas Cook reported an uptick in bookings for Cyprus following the announcement that vaccinated travellers could enjoy a quarantine-free visit from 1 May; tour operators will be hoping for a similar bookings boost after this latest news from Greece.
However, the UK government announced in its roadmap that international leisure travel would not be permitted before 17 May; foreign holidays will therefore remain illegal until then, despite other countries’ changes to their rules.
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