Portugal’s hotels are ALREADY open for visitors – but they have no idea when international tourists can visit
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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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 its 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 the UK.
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 with Wizz Air now offering 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)."
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.
Tour operators are selling holidays for 2021, as Brits fear a holiday abroad this year may not happen.
We've rounded up the best cheap deals including trips to Portugal from £252 per person.
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