Cruises and other travel to Europe may be off-bounds for a long time
By Patti Pietschmann Travel Diva
Late breaking update: As we all know coronavirus is unpredictable as it seems is Italy’s tourism minister who is back tracking from his earlier interview in La Repubblica. He now says that he’s been misquoted and won’t be closing the borders. But he also acknowledges that the future is still unpredictable. . It’s a fluid situation folks.
The coronavirus took Italy by storm. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country, according to WHO, stands at 192,994. The number of deaths there is currently 25,969. These stats make Italy the third-worst coronavirus-hit country in the world.
Consequently Italy is considering keeping its borders closed to foreign visitors until 2021 according to Dario Franceschini, Minister of Culture and Tourism. “The opening of the borders depends on the epidemiological situation and the policies of each individual state,” Franceschini explained.
Some good news for Italian residents
The good news for Italy’s locals is that museums and other attractions, such as the Colosseum and Pompeii could reopen in May.
Further effecting tourism and any hopes of summer cruises in Europe, France is talking about not reopening its doors until September. Spain may also stay shut down until the end of 2020.
So any hopes of taking that European cruise this summer is pretty much dashed. Unless, of course, a miracle happens and we find a cure and vaccine for this deadly virus.
In the meantime stay home and follow the rules of avoidance. You know what they are: distancing, hand washing, sanitizing, and wearing masks in public. And while you’re lounging around think about trips and cruises you might want to plan for 2021 and beyond.
Then just call Pavlus agents (800-528-9300) to help you book your trip. Hopefully soon we’ll all be able to enjoy cruises from Rome and stops in Portofino and other enchanting Italian destinations.
