Greece still has a 14-day coronavirus quarantine for arrivals, but the country has offered to waive it for British tourists if the same was done for Greeks entering the UK, according to a report.
The Greek government said revenue from its vital tourism industry has been hammered as a result of the pandemic and lockdown measures.
During the past three days, the country has reopened beaches, mainland travel and ancient sites as part of preparations for the holiday season, while restaurants will reopen Monday.
Authorities are eager to reopen Greece’s vital tourism sector amid warnings that the country is likely to suffer the worst recession in the 27-nation European Union this year.
Travel to Greek islands remains restricted and the country’s 14-day quarantine for visitors from abroad remains in effect.
But Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis said the country would waive its requirement for visitors if the UK reciprocated, according to the Daily Mail, which cited his interview with the BBC.
His announcement came as ministers discuss coronavirus “air bridges” — usually used to refer to military flights over enemy territory — to allow tourists to travel between countries without the need for quarantine once the outbreak is under control, the Daily Mail reported.
Meanwhile, British Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said a “blanket” 14-day quarantine rule for arrivals will be implemented starting next month.
But he said “active discussions” are being held over what countries could be exempted from the measure, including Australia, New Zealand and Greece, which have lower infection rates.
With Post wires
