International holidays might sound like an ill-advised idea right now, but in just a few weeks, Greece will begin welcoming back tourists. The country, which enforced a strict and early lockdown, is considered a coronavirus success story. Previously, the prime minister had expressed his wish to welcome back international tourism by July 1. Now, that date is being advanced to June 15 — but don’t pack your bag just yet.
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Greece Moves Up Reopening Date to June 15
Prime Minister Kyriakos Misotakis announced that starting June 15 only visitors from countries with acceptably low rates of virus infection will be allowed entry. Unfortunately, this likely doesn’t apply to the US.
Greece, whose economy relies heavily on tourism, is looking to avoid a devastating economic blow. Reopening its tourism sector before countries like Italy and Spain could help it restore this vital source of income.
Healthcare capacity will be increased at popular tourist destinations, along with comprehensive plans for handling potential outbreaks. Tourists will not be required to take a coronavirus test before entering Greece, though health officials may conduct spot checks where necessary.
Beaches in Greece reopened last weekend, and on Monday, the Acropolis opened again to visitors. 