HOTELS in Portugal are already open for tourists – but they have no idea when Brits will be able to return.
More than a third of hotels in the Algarve have opened their doors once again, with 75 per cent expected to be open by next month, along with beaches.
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Hotels in Portugal are already open, but it may be a while before they have any British touristsCredit: Alamy
Portugal hopes to have all resorts open by July.
However, it is likely to be domestic tourism for the near future, with no plans for when Brits will be able to book a holiday.
Portugal has managed to keep cases of coronavirus low – just 28,132 cases have been confirmed with 1,175 deaths, despite the close proximity to Spain.
Yet with a full schedule of flights yet to return to Portugal and border restrictions in place, there is no suggestion of Brits returning any time soon.
The UK still advises against all non-essential travel outside of the UK.
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It isn’t clear when Brits will be able to visit Portugal on holiday
President of Algarve Tourism, João Fernandes explained: “This is an issue that obviously affects many countries, not just Algarve. “
“All major European tourist destinations are keenly awaiting the EU guidelines on this matter.
Yet some airlines have resumed flights – Wizz Air has limited routes between the UK and Portugal.
Mr Fernandes said: “The Algarve is ready to restart its tourist activity.
“It will be nothing that prevents a vacationer from enjoying a nice sunny day on the sand, but taking care of the necessary rules applicable to the spaces and collaborators supporting the beaches (parking, access, help stations, restaurants, bars or umbrellas and sun beds).”
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The country hopes that when flights start again and border restrictions are lowered, UK holidaymakers will returnCredit: Getty – Contributor
Rules are being drawn up in regard to using the beaches, to ensure social distancing is followed.
In Spain, sunbathing squares and age-designated zones are being considered, while Greece has banned contact sports and cafe table service.
Faro Airport is also introducing new measures ahead of the arrival of international visitors, which includes temperature checks, compulsory use of face masks and disinfectant equipment and measures.
Mr Fernandes added: “The priority now is to reassure visitors, workers and residents in general that their safety is our first concern.”
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The Algarve has already launched the “Clean & Safe” seal, with hundreds of hotels and attractions certified to be operating safe procedures in regard to coronavirus.
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