Portuguese Tourism Minister: 'Everything is open' for British tourists

Brits will have to test negative for the virus 72 hours before departing to Portugal (Picture: Getty Images)

As the country welcomes visitors back from Monday, Portugal's tourism minister declared that "all is available" for British vacationers this summer.

Travel to Portugal seemed to be in jeopardy earlier this week after Boris Johnson said it was on the ‘green list,' but the Portuguese government said citizens would only be allowed to stay until May 30.

However, the country's foreign ministry announced yesterday afternoon that the country's "necessary travel" restrictions will be lifted.

Tourists will be able to go to restaurants, coffee shops, and bars when they arrive next week, according to Tourism Minister Rita Marques.

‘We have been working hard to tackle the pandemic, as I said, so restaurants, coffee shops, shops, and everything is open as of May 1st,' she told BBC Breakfast.

‘Of course, there are certain limitations, such as wearing a mask and maintaining social distance.' At the end of the day, I suppose the experience would be fantastic.'

Unless they are on the beach, people would be required to wear masks both indoors and outdoors ‘all day long.'

‘So, if you're heading to a restaurant by the ocean, you can wear a mask, but if you're near the shore, you don't need a mask,' says the expert. Ms. Marques explained the situation.

It comes after only 12 countries were included on the government's green list, with the majority of them still excluding visitors or enforcing strict restrictions.

Every three weeks, ministers will review the list, and they are in discussions with the European Commission on how to open up the continent.

The opening of Portugal is welcome news for football fans, with many preparing to attend the all-English Champions League final on May 29 in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea. Anyone flying into the country must have a negative RT-PCR test 72 hours prior to departure.

‘People from the United Kingdom have visited Portugal and celebrated our culture, customs, landmarks, heritage, and warm hospitality for decades,' according to Visit Portugal.

‘We look forward to welcoming all visitors from the United Kingdom.'

Publish : 2021-05-16 19:51:00

Give Your Comments