After several months of quarantine I was unsure if travel would even be possible in the summer. When European borders began to open in July, it seemed that we would be able to leave Spain. As there was still quite a lot of uncertainty in regards to travel, my boyfriend and I decided to book a trip to France to stay with his family for a few weeks.
My experience traveling in Europe during COVID-19 was certainly different than what most of us are used to. Although countries are encouraging tourism, it is also imperative to travel smart, and stay safe. Of course rules and regulations are changing everyday. Some countries now require quarantine or negative test results to visit, and others have closed borders to non-Europeans. Whether you wish to travel in Europe for family purposes, or tourism below are a few things to keep in mind before your trip.
TRAVELING IN EUROPE DURING COVID-19
Pre-Departure
Traveling in Europe during Covid-19 requires a different packing list. In addition to packing all of the essentials, I also had to bring plenty of masks, travel sized hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes. I packed several packages of disposable masks so that I would have enough throughout my stay in both France and the Netherlands.
Flight Experience
I was excited to board a plane again, yet anxious to be around a lot of people. To my surprise, the airport process was quite smooth on many occasions. Additionally, airlines have significantly reduced the number of departing flights, which helps keep the number of people in the airport to a minimum.
AIRPORT CHECK-IN
To further reduce the number of people inside, many airports are requiring a boarding pass to enter. Airport security will not let you in unless you have an upcoming flight. Once inside, the security checkpoint was quite empty. There were markings on the ground indicating the 1.5 meter distance, and hand sanitizing stations throughout. Most of the shops were closed, except for the Duty Free, and one or two cafes to purchase food and drinks. Everyone is required to wear a mask at all times, unless eating or drinking, and seats were also blocked off to further encourage distance.
IN-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
In regards to the flight itself, I had a pleasant experience on all four flights. There was always an empty seat next to me, and I actually had an entire row to myself more than once. As the planes were not generally full, flight attendants were very flexible in regards to moving seats. Inside the airplane, there were a few new restrictions as well. You are not allowed to go to the toilet without asking a flight attendant. This is to prevent a cluster of people in the aisles. Lastly, the airlines required everyone to board and leave the airplane in groups of ten.
ARRIVAL
Upon arrival many European countries require a signed health form, declaring that you have not had any COVID-19 symptoms in the past 48 hours. The form also asks for your contact information during your stay. This is in the case someone on your flight tests positive, which would then require you to quarantine. Some countries also require a negative test result depending on where you fly from. In Madrid, infrared cameras control temperatures, and onsite medics are prepared in the case anyone has a fever and requires a COVID-19 test. Each country has unique restrictions and health forms, therefore, it is important that you find the appropriate information, and required documentation prior to boarding.
Hotels
Since I was visiting family and friends during my trips to France and the Netherlands I did not stay in any hotels. However, I did stay in a hotel outside of Madrid for the weekend and can therefore, speak a bit about my experience. The hotel placed hand sanitizer stations at the main entrance, as well as, outside the elevators and staircases. Furthermore, plexiglass at the check-in counters separated the workers from the guests. The hotel required guests to wear masks in all public areas, and it was mandatory to reserve a time slot to access the pool or other hotel services. The staff also regularly cleaned and disinfected both the rooms and public areas of the hotel.
Sightseeing/Museums
Sightseeing, and visiting Museums is also a bit different while traveling in Europe during COVID-19. Since all indoor spaces have reduced capacity, many museums require guests to purchase tickets with a specific time-slot beforehand. They also encourage digital tickets to avoid physical contact. One exhibit in France even had temperature checks prior to entering. The museums I visited required masks inside, and the Rijks Museum in Amsterdam had a security guard controlling the number of people allowed in an exhibit at a given time. The gift shops had strict rules as well, and only allowed a limited number of guests inside at once. Apart from museums, other attractions such as river cruises, or a sightseeing train rides also require masks and/or distancing.
Public Transportation
During my holidays, we traveled via car almost everywhere we went. The safer and more comfortable option to travel in Europe during COVID-19 is to rent a car. If you are close enough to your destination you can drive, or you can chose to rent a car when you arrive to avoid using forms of public transportation. However, if you do need to take public transportation, then keep in mind that most European countries require masks. Also keep in mind that the schedules and payment options may be different than usual.
Restaurants/ Eating Out
The majority of European cities have opened up both outdoor and indoor dining. Nonetheless, I usually feel more comfortable eating outdoors. In Madrid, and larger cities in the Netherlands and France, restaurants have extended their outdoor eating area. This allows restaurants to accommodate more tables while also keeping the required distance between them. Staff in France and Spain are required to wear masks, and guests must wear masks when heading to the toilet or paying indoors. From my experience most restaurants encourage paying with credit cards to avoid handling cash. Each city will have its own restrictions in regards to making reservations, and max number of people at a table. Therefore, ensure to research the individual restaurant’s policy beforehand!
Traveling in Europe during COVID-19 can seem a bit daunting and uncertain. However, if you do your research and take all of the necessary precautions it is possible to travel. Whether you plan on staying local or heading to a new country make sure to travel smart and respect the country’s regulations.
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
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