Julia Chatterley, from First Move, spoke on Tuesday with Harry Theoharis, the Greek Minister of Tourism.
Many countries face the way of managing tourism. Greece is bold in this regard.
Theoharis: Well, yes. Up to a point. It is a complete system that has five levels of protection for everyone. It’s not just about vaccination, it’s about testing before you leave in case you’re not vaccinated. It’s about targeted testing on arrival and, of course, isolation if you or your family – if you’re positive. There are protocols, masks, other things we’re used to so far. You have to keep social distance, etc.
If you were vaccinated with the Chinese vaccine, if you were vaccinated with the Russian vaccine, does it still qualify for entry?
Theoharis: Yes, they qualify for entry. It effectively means that you can skip the pre-departure test that you have to perform otherwise. This is the difference between vaccinated and unvaccinated.
Even though these vaccines are not approved or authorized in Europe, Greece says, “Look, is it good enough for us?”
Theoharis: It is good enough for the risk-based approach we take. The risk-based approach is based on an individual basis and not on a regional or country basis, so we weighed in with our doctors. Based on the advice of our health experts, the risk is minimal.
Greece is a burning track here. Many nations are struggling to decide how to break rock. Help us understand the rules that will apply to tourists.
Theoharis: The life of a tourist is as important to us as the life of a citizen. The same rules that apply [for Greek citizens] will apply to everyone. We do not discriminate in any way. So it is important for people to understand this. We hope that things will be more and more liberalized as vaccination programs around the world progress. Even if we have changes in the other direction, these changes will apply to everyone.
What will it be like as a tourist?
Theoharis: Well, let me say, until May 14, where we were going to have the official opening of the tourist season, the restaurants will be open, especially the outdoor parts of the restaurants. We already have the other parts open. People have to wear masks. This is not a normal summer. These restrictions continue to apply. You can still enjoy the outdoors. You can go hiking. You can enjoy the beach where you do not need to wear a mask. You can enjoy these things, but we still need to keep your distance. We must continue to be careful about how we move.