This archive report was first published on 13 May 2020.
The European Union's executive has proposed a plan to revive the tourism industry, which has been severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
According to the plan, a gradual lifting of borders will be implemented, starting with the allowance of seasonal workers to cross borders.
Commission Vice-President Margrethe Vestager emphasized that no-one should travel if they feel sick or experience symptoms.
As part of the plan, countries will work together to remove travel bans and border checks, while keeping targeted measures in place as the Covid-19 outbreak comes under control across the member states.
Ms. Vestager stated that workers and travelers need to know that hotels, restaurants, and beaches are safe.
She added that the various contact-tracing apps being worked on by European countries to monitor the spread of Covid-19 will have to work across Europe.
On June 15, free movement is expected to resume, with random checks at border crossings until then.
UK travelers have been warned not to expect 'lavish' international holidays, with plans for a 14-day quarantine on air arrivals.
However, travel without quarantine will be possible to France and Ireland.
The European Commission's guidance is based on the principles of safety and non-discrimination.
Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni stated that Italy's tourist season has already been badly hit, with the first half of the main period from March to May already lost.
