Just when we thought summer was over before it even began.
Today (June 15) is a breakthrough day for travelling across Europe. For the best part of three months, non-essential travel has been a no-go as the world dealt with COVID-19.
But, now that the number of cases has lowered, countries are beginning to declare it safe and necessary to resume tourism. Iceland, the Netherlands and Greece had previously announced they would open up to visitors today, and now France has joined the pack. Portugal, Cyprus and Italy had also previously begun to welcome back tourists.
In these countries, however, holidaymakers will not have the same experience they are used to. Social-distancing measures in each nation will dictate what can and cannot be open to visitors. Everything from museums to beaches to cafés will be reviewed in new measures. Most countries have also made it compulsory to wear masks in public while keeping 2m from one another.
While announcing that France’s borders were open again, President Emmanuel Macron said: “This does not mean that the virus has gone and that we can completely drop our guard. The summer of 2020 will be a summer unlike any other.”
So, if you fancy admiring the wondrous art, culture and nature France has to offer, you now can. There is one not very small catch, though. Tourists from Spain and the UK will currently be required to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival.
See also: Here’s Where To Buy A Face Mask To Protect Yourself And Others
Featured image: Unsplash (Nice, France)