Holidaymakers Left Massively Confused As Greece Does U-Turn On Covid Rules

Holidaymakers have been left scratching their heads in confusion after Greece made a huge u-turn on covid rules.

It was believed that from 1 May, Greece would lift all remaining restrictions, such as the need for travellers to produce proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative PCR test result.

Speaking earlier this month (12 April), Greece's health minister, Thanos Plevris, addressed the public on TV.

He said that covid cases have declined enough 'to proceed with the suspension of the protection measures put in place, from 1 May'.

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Plevris did emphasise that the restrictions would merely be a suspension rather than a complete removal.

He added: "The measures will be reviewed again in September."

It was then later clarified that indoor mask-wearing would remain until 1 June.

Government website travel.gov.gr, says: "Until 31 May, the obligation to use a mask for indoor areas remains.

"From 1 June, the obligation will be lifted with exceptions that will be clarified in the weeks to come."

Plevris said: "We do not know [when the mask will not be mandatory]. It is possible that the measure of wearing masks indoors might not be lifted, because the mask is a mild measure.

"What we suggest is that masks indoors will continue in May and then, based on the epidemiological picture in the country, decisions will be taken for June."

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Now, however, Greece's tourist board is now reportedly saying that the entry restrictions will not be eased.

A representative for the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) told The Independent that its current entry requirements will remain to stay in place.

A source from Marketing Greece, who did not wish to be named, told the publication: "There has been a misunderstanding on this and it has been falsely reproduced by some media.

"As of 1 May, no proof of vaccination or recovery will be required to enter all indoor and outdoor venues.

"Based on the information that we currently have, it will still be required to show vaccination/recovery certificate to enter the country.

"Within the next period, the government will examine the possibility of lifting that restriction as well, and in this case an official announcement will be made."

LADbible has contacted GNTO for comment.

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Many holidaymakers have gone on social media to voice their confusion.

One person wrote: "Can you confirm if Greece are changing its travel entry requirements on May the 1st for British people traveling to Greece? It's all a bit confusing."

Another asked Jet2: "Hello, please can you confirm that the entry requirements for Greece will be changing on the 1st or 2nd of May for people who aren't fully vaccinated? Or need proof of tests?"