The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in so many different ways. There is no industry which wasn't affected by this crisis but international travel got the hardest hit. There is so much uncertainty in the world and many of us want to know when we can finally travel again and how this pandemic will change traveling. The experts tell us the virus is not going to disappear but we will apparently learn how to manage it and adapt to a new reality.
As summer season approaches, many countries are trying to figure out how to revive the travel industry. EU member states are understandably cautious about a return to travel and expect to implement many safety measures to make sure everyone is safe. We might see a lot of testing, widespread thermometers and new procedures to contain potential spread.
Greece, one of the most popular travel destinations, is hoping to open its borders for tourists by July. This doesn't mean travel industry will just get back to normal. More likely we will see gradual relaxation of lockdown measures.
Some of the stores will start opening starting on May 4.
Churches will open for private worship; as of May 17
As of June 1, restaurants and hotels will be opened.
The rest of the economy will reopen within June, while all summer festivals. sports events and concerts are likely to be cancelled.
Greece’s tourism minister Harry Theocharis has already said that travel can only take place “under specific new rules”. He didn't give the details on specific precautions which would be in place but we can expect a lot of new procedures. Travelers might have to pass some requirements before they are allowed to fly to Greece. The Greek Tourism Minister confirmed that ideas such as ‘health tests’ and "immunity passports" are being discussed with Greek epidemiology experts.
