Holiday in Portugal: Rules Britons need to follow when on holiday
Portugal: Algarve tourist chief welcomes British visitors
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We saw crowded airports across the UK this morning as the first flights were scheduled to take off today. Thousands of holidaymakers just couldn’t wait to be on their way to warmer weather.
“Can’t wait to be by the pool with a cocktail,” said one.
But what are the rules for when travellers arrive in Portugal?
The Portuguese ministers have extended the national lockdown until May 30.
As soon as they arrive, Britons must present proof of a negative coronavirus test (PCR), which had to be carried out within 72 hours before departing the UK.
Once in Portugal, lockdown rules and strict Covid-19 measures will need to be followed.
Portugal is known to be one of the strictest countries regarding Covid restrictions, along with Spain or Italy.
Masks and face coverings are mandatory indoors and outdoors, and on public transport. So basically, at all times.
UK holidaymakers will need to abide by the rules if they don’t want to face up to €1,000 fine.
When staying in a hotel, guests will be asked to wear a mask around communal areas such as reception and corridors.
While walking by the seaside, or going to a restaurant to have dinner, a mask has to be worn until seated.
The use of a mask is also mandatory when entering or leaving the beach.
Exemptions from wearing a facemask differ in Portugal compared to the UK.
You may be exempt from using a face mask on medical grounds, but you will have to show a declaration from your doctor as evidence of your health condition.
At the moment, and after May 1, the following have already reopened in Portugal:
Restaurants and cafés are now open until 10.30pm.
Groups of six people are allowed inside or 10 people on terraces.
Large outdoor and indoor events are allowed with reduced capacity.
Amusement parks are also open, as well as water parks.
Portugal’s secretary of state for tourism, Rita Marques, assured that “everything is open” in the country.
“Some restrictions apply, of course, so you have to wear a mask, you have to maintain social distancing.
“I guess, at the end of the day, the experience will be great.”
She said masks are worn “indoors and outdoors.”
And she added: “Masks need to be used all day long, except when you are on the beach, of course.
“So if you are going to a restaurant near the beach you should wear a mask, but if you are near the sea you don’t need to wear a mask,” she explained.
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