Closing borders to the unvaccinated undermines some French holidays

Malta will close its borders to non-vaccinated travelers, from Wednesday 14 July. An emergency measure taken by the government to curb the increase in new cases of Covid-19. But this decision, taken on Friday with almost immediate effect, calls into question the departure of so many French people on holiday.

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Frederic, 45, was due to leave with his family from August 10, but the trip was impossible because his mother, having contracted Covid-19, was unable to receive a second dose of the vaccine. Malta considers that a complete vaccination schedule requires two doses of vaccination. Thus, travelers whose EU digital certificate indicates they have tested positive and thus received a single dose of the vaccination, will not be allowed to enter the country. anomaly for him. “ This is not normal. This indicates that the European Health Card is useless because it is no longer sufficient to go to Greece. » laments. With his family, they have spent a budget of 2,500 euros for six days and will not be able to reschedule vacation until they are compensated.

Regarding the issue of tourists’ reimbursement for booking transport and accommodation tickets, no contact has been made by the Greek government. “ At the moment, no protocol has been drawn up on compensation for the tourists concerned, but it is not impossible for this to happen because it is a government decision. Highlights of the French Embassy in Malta.

Tourism recovery plan worth 20 million euros

On the Air Malta side, the policy chosen is very clear. Passengers who have paid for a more expensive ticket will be paid including compensation insurance. For others, this will not be the case. “ With the coronavirus crisis, most customers buy tickets with a guarantee of their compensation. Very few do not take it ”, claims the airline.

This measure was put in place to close the borders to unvaccinated people to limit the spread of the coronavirus on the island. On June 27, no new cases were recorded, but on Friday the health authorities identified 96, 90% of whom were not vaccinated. A large number of cases were discovered during the language trips, and the schools, which attract students from all over the world every year, will close from July 14 as well.

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But the government has doubled down on its initiatives to attract tourists. The Minister of Tourism launched a recovery plan worth 20 million euros, including in particular, support for professionals in this sector as well as financial assistance of up to 200 euros for foreign visitors. “ We chose Malta specifically for the very attractive tourism plan and because there are no restrictions on the spot with the opening of clubs and bars. I am very disappointed with this policy change Bitterly regrets that Baptiste, 19, had planned to leave for a few days with his friends at the beginning of August. He doesn’t want to be vaccinated, so he won’t be on the flight…