Popular Portuguese destinations the Algarve and Madeira are set to welcome tourists again – although British visitors still have to enter quarantine when returning to the UK.
The Algarve in southern Portugal (pictured) has a new promotional video and campaign to highlight its attractions – and a pledge to welcome visitors in a Covid-safe way.
Visit Portugal, the national tourism authority, has introduced a ‘Clean & Safe’ stamp, which certifies compliance with strict health protocols for tourist businesses across the country.
Restaurants are operating at half their usual capacity, and shops and museums have also reopened.
The Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) has set out rules for the newly-reopened beaches.
João Fernandes, president of the Algarve Tourism Board, said: “The region is prepared to receive tourists and visitors, on its beaches and inland. It will be the duty of all of us, from tour operators to citizens, to comply with the rules of access, individual protection measures and safety distances.
“We are looking forward to hosting visitors again and confident to welcome them safely.”
Several airlines have also revived flights to the island of Madeira.
Before arrival in Madeira, all passengers must complete the Regional Health Authority’s epidemiological survey and will need to submit a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours of departure. If they have not performed a test in advance, they will be required to take one upon arrival at Madeira Airport – with costs covered by the local authorities.
Incoming visitors will also be subject to thermal screening, even if they carry a negative test for Covid-19.
Discover Madeira, the consumer-facing brand of the Madeira Promotion Bureau, has developed ‘Madeira Safe to Discover’ guidelines to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
A spokesman from Discover Madeira said: “We are proud to offer a safe and relaxing escape in spectacular surroundings and we are looking forward welcoming even more visitors over the coming months as more services resume.”
The British Foreign Office says travel to Portugal is subject to entry restrictions. On arrival in mainland Portugal, visitors will be subject to health screening and if travelling to Madeira, Porto Santo or the Azores, they must take a Covid-19 test before travel or on arrival.
Return travel to the UK is subject to 14-day self-isolation requirements.