EU sets to resurrect tourism industry, calls for reopening of internal boarders

The European Union has disclosed plan to reopen internal borders in order to help European citizens salvage their summer vacations and resurrect Europe’s heavily battered tourism industry

Although the prospects of reviving tourism ahead of the summer season were mixed as public fears over health and safety weigh heavily during the coronavirus pandemic.

While making the call on Wednesday May 13, 2020, the EU’s executive Commission stated that, “The tourism sector usually accounts for about a tenth of the bloc’s economy, now decimated by the pandemic. We are urging a return to unrestricted free movement, albeit with safety measures such as face masks on airplanes.”

“Our thoughts are now turning toward summer and to the places that we love to travel,” said Margrethe Vestager, a Commission deputy.

“That means taking gradual, careful steps to help travel restart in line with what science tells us,” she added.

Tourism industry groups praised the recommendations as a first step to help save their businesses, but the Commission’s proposals are non-binding on the 27 EU members.

Furthermore, it recommended Europe’s external borders remain closed for most travel at least until mid-June.

Nations that have experienced some of the world’s worst outbreaks appear in no hurry to let in large numbers of visitors. Two Spanish foreign ministry sources told Reuters that Spain plans to keep its borders closed to most travellers from abroad until July.

“We were all set to take the kids to Spain and Italy this summer. But not now, it’s too risky even if it is allowed,” said Jean-Paul, a 57-year-old Frenchman, who has frozen hotel reservations.

“For now, we’ll stay close to home and just enjoy some cycling, walking and fishing instead,” he added.