One of the world’s most rigid coronavirus lockdowns

In a bid to contain the contagion, Italy was the first European country to impose nationwide restrictions in March, not sanctioning an initial relaxation of the rules until May 4th, when it allowed factories and parks to reopen. On Saturday 16^th of May, the Italian government outlined a further loosening of movement restrictions, with shops as well as bars and restaurants due to reopen from Monday 18^th of May. The Prime Minister Conte has also announced that people will no longer have to justify travel within their own region and will be able to meet friends as well as family. While large public gatherings will still be banned, church and other religious services can resume and museums and galleries will also be able to open. A ban on travel between regions and abroad will remain in place until after Italy’s June 2 Republic Day holiday, preventing any mass travel over that long holiday weekend. People in quarantine or suffering from COVID-19 symptoms will have to remain in isolation and social distancing rules will continue to apply, and people are still advised to wear masks inside or on crowded streets.

What’s next

The Italian government has been desperate to get the country back to work without triggering a second wave in the epidemic.  Some regions had pushed for a swifter rollback, but Conte has insisted on a gradual return to normal. However, regions will have scope to decide individual measures as long as safety measures are respected. Gyms, swimming pools and sports centres will reopen on May 25, while theatres and cinemas can reopen from June 15. All travel bans will be removed from June 3 and travellers from European Union countries will be able to enter without going into quarantine.

How are the hotels approaching to the next phase?

Consumers will re-enter the travel market with caution and social distancing still top-of-mind. Boutique hotels away from the crowd would definitely be a smarter choice compared to large chain hotels with hundreds of rooms and shared communal spaces built to encourage large gatherings. Travelling to the countryside, the seaside or the mountains would definitely be the best choice to enjoy a holiday away from the crowd in full safety with lots of private spaces and tailored facilities for each guest. Due to the fact that part of the travel season 2020 has already gone, some of the hotels are not re-opening till the new year comes but those who have decided to welcome Guests are definitely putting as a number one priority safeguarding their well-being and health. Check out some of the additional precautionary measures hotels are taking to ensure a pleasant stay in total safety and comfort

• Frequent room and common area cleaning and sanitation
• Additional cleaning products available to Guests like hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, etc.
• Implementation of staff hygiene practices
• Complimentary room service and private dining options
• Dedicated on line concierge available during the stay
• Respect of 2mt distance from one table to another at restaurant