Spain Planning To Close Hotels As Cases Continue To Rise

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Last Updated 3 years ago

Many countries in Europe are starting to reimpose travel restrictions as cases continue to climb across the continent. Now, Spain is set to debate the closure of hotels which could impact tourists with holidays booked over the next few weeks if plans go ahead.

This post will look at the latest travel and Covid-19 restrictions in Spain.

Current Covid-19 Entry Requirements In Spain

Although most European countries shut their doors to American travelers earlier this fall, Spain only banned unvaccinated U.S. tourists.

Anyone who has been fully vaccinated can enter Spain for a vacation without proof of a negative Covid test, even if they are arriving from destinations categorized as high risk.

Travelers arriving from approved countries who've not been fully vaccinated must undertake a PCR test within 72 hours of departure and show proof of a negative result on entry.

All travelers must complete a Health Control Form (HCF) via the Spain Travel Health website or app. 

Face masks must also be worn in enclosed indoor public spaces and outdoor areas where social distancing cannot be maintained.

See all Covid-19 entry requirements for Spain here.

Spain Debating Closing Hotels As Cases Rise

This week, The Public Health Commission of Spain will debate whether to close the interior of hotel businesses, which would apply to hotels in regions of Spain with high Covid rates and hospital pressure.

A source said: “It is about giving more relevance to the hospital situation in the evolution of the pandemic.

“The key point is the hospital issue, because right now the majority of infections occur in children under 11 years of age who do not go to the hospital.”

The measures will be brought in if the Covid rate reaches 500 per 100,000 inhabitants.

In the week leading up to November 22, there were 33,507 new Covid cases reported.

Other Restrictions May Be Added In Spain

In addition to the closure of hotels, Spain is debating closing nightclubs at 1 am and requiring guests to wear a mask at all times on the dance floor.

If the government goes ahead with the proposed changes, restaurants, bars, and cafes in areas with high rates would only be able to operate at 25% capacity indoors with six people per table maximum.

The hospitality measures will be brought in if the Covid rate reaches 300 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

Spain is currently issued a level 3: reconsider travel warning from the U.S. state department.

Mor European Countries Adding Restrictions

Spain is just one of several European countries that have added restrictions in recent weeks over the rising cases.

Tourism in Austria has been suspended as they begin a full lockdown, while Germany has canceled several of its famed Christmas markets.

The Netherlands has imposed a partial nationwide lockdown, and Norway is imposing strict entry requirements on EU travelers.

The EU Public Health Authority has warned the public to avoid travel to most European countries, and the U.S. has issued travel advisories for several European destinations.

Iceland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic were handed Level 4 travel advisory updates, along with Germany and Denmark.

As we approach winter, travelers will have to stay alert and adjust plans accordingly as more travel restrictions are likely to be added in Europe.

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