Spain to ditch face masks this month – but it won’t be in time for Easter
SPAIN is expected to scrap mandatory face masks - but it won't be in time for the Easter holidays.
An official notice will be published by the Spanish government on April 19 and come into force the following day by royal decree.
Back in February, Spain ditched the requirement for people to wear face masks in outdoor spaces, including at the beaches, on the promenade and at swimming pools.
However, they have continued to be mandatory in enclosed public spaces, such as restaurants, bars, cinemas and theatres.
But today, Health Minister Carolina Darias confirmed that from April 20, face masks will no longer be required in indoor public spaces, giving a boost to Brits heading on their holidays.
Masks will remain compulsory on public transport, in hospitals and in nursing homes.
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Some Spanish regions, including Madrid and Catalonia, are frustrated the rule won't be changed in time for the Easter holidays, which is expected to be a busy time for tourism in the country.
While other areas, such as Andalusia and Extremadura, are wary of the rule being lifted so soon.
And while they won't be mandatory, face masks are likely to still be encouraged.
Ms Darias said the decree would advise people to "use your common sense" when deciding whether or not to wear a face mask.
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The Spanish tourist board came under fire yesterday after they wrongly announced unvaccinated Brits could travel to the country.
The board was forced to do a U-turn and said that unvaccinated travellers are not allowed to enter unless they can show proof of recovery within the last 180 days.
Furious Brits slammed the tourist board after they had seen the update and booked holidays which they now can't go on.
Vaccinated Brits can visit Spain without needing to test or quarantine and unvaccinated teens aged 12 to 17 can enter by showing proof of a negative Covid test. Proof of Recoveries are also accepted if unvaccinated.
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In other Spain news, there's been an Easter holiday warning due to huge storms sweeping the country.
Beach bar owners have said their Easter hopes have been dashed following the damage done on the back of storms over recent weeks which have caused severe damage to the buildings.
