As the COVID-19 pandemic keeps on spreading around the world, some countries are entering the new normal. In Europe, for example, things seem to be improving slowly, at least for the moment, no doubt thanks to the vaccination campaigns. Indeed, despite the significant delay in many countries, some 27.58% of Europeans had already received their first dose in early May. And this is not really a surprise since many of them were planning for the end of the lockdown and reopening their borders internationally.
You are probably aware that France began its first phase of deconfinement on May 3 and expects to reopen its borders to tourists by June 9. If everything goes as planned, the lockdown will be history by June 30. Since mid-May, the curfew has been gradually pushed back to 9 pm, allowing people to enjoy their favourite activities such as terraces, museums, etc., a little longer. From June 9, the curfew will apply at 11 pm until it is lifted on June 30. So if you're looking to travel to France and enjoy all of its beauty and activities, maybe you should wait a little longer.
Besides, European citizens who wish to travel to France will need a health passport. From June 9, the health passport will be mandatory for participation in gatherings of up to 1,000 people, such as festivals, fairs, sports matches and exhibitions, etc. However, you won't need it at the bar, restaurant or in shops. Belgians are also breathing freedom but under certain conditions. While friends and family get-togethers are now allowed, and terraces are open for a drink, only four people are allowed around a table.
In Spain, the state of emergency came to an end on May 9. People can now go out and eat at restaurants and terraces provided social distancing is respected. However, gatherings are limited to 6 people outdoors and four people indoors. In Italy, most regions are currently in the yellow zone. So terraces, bars and restaurants are open since April 26, and cinemas and theatres can operate at up to 50% of their capacity. However, there's still a curfew at 10 pm.
In Germany, vaccinated people have more privileges, especially in regions where there's a 10 pm to 5 am curfew. Still, a large proportion of the population hasn't been vaccinated yet. Those who have been inoculated can enter most businesses without needing a negative COVID-19 test. They are also allowed to reunite with friends and family, even in closed venues, without any limits. People who have fully recovered from COVID-19 enjoy the same benefits. However, social distancing and the wearing of masks remain compulsory, whether in shops, bars, restaurants and terraces or in public transport.
The long-awaited moment for months has finally come for the British as well. Pubs and restaurants, cultural spots, stadiums with a capacity of 10,000 spectators and hotels reopened on May 17 despite the presence of the Indian variant – which is a severe threat, according to the British authorities. Non-essential businesses and terraces have been open since April. Currently, families can reunite within the limit of six people or two households. Travelling overseas for holidays is also allowed. And so are hugs!
But Europe isn't the only place where people are currently enjoying newly found freedom. Mauritius, for example, is also expecting a total end of lockdown in early June. This island in the Indian Ocean had locked down once again in March following a second wave. Since May 1, lockdown restrictions have been eased with the reopening of shops, public buildings, health tracks, etc. However, beaches, gyms and cinemas, and many other places have remained closed. Restaurants and fast-food chains are only open for orders and take-away meals.
Back into lockdown
With a new rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, South Africa could be locked down for the fourth time. However, the business community warns that another lockdown will have a disastrous effect not only on the economy but on the population as a whole. The government shall look into the matter this week before making a decision.
In Malaysia, Eid celebrations did not go as planned due to a new month-long lockdown. So those who are hoping to be able to travel and reunite with their families after several months will have to be more patient. If the new wave is contained, the lockdown could be eased from June 7. Still, all economic sectors are operating normally. All educational institutions are closed, and social activities are prohibited until further notice. Mosques with a capacity of 1000 people can only accommodate 50 people, and those with a lower capacity are limited to 20 people. It's worth noting that Malaysia declared a national state of emergency from January 12 until August 1, 2021.
Turkey is also locked down since last week for three weeks due to a new surge in COVID-19 cases. Most places, including schools, are currently closed. Only essential businesses are allowed to operate, and the sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Taiwan also closed down all its bars, internet cafes, game and entertainment centres, and gyms on Saturday after 29 new cases were reported. The country also closed its borders.
In India, where things are getting worse day after day, several states, including Maharashtra, Kerala, Assam, went into lockdown this week. It's worth noting that India currently has a record of more than 25 million COVID-19 cases and 275,000 deaths.
