Italy: ban for Russian tourists extended, but cruise ships are allowed

The new decree on the state of emergency in Italy, or Decreto Aogosto, presented the conditions that await the country in terms of combating the coronavirus and its consequences. As expected, several articles of the decree are devoted to tourism. So far, as expected, Russian tourists are not allowed to visit the country. As a member of the EU, Italy cannot open its borders to unsafe countries. However, tourism in the country continues to gradually grow with numerous restrictions, but cruise programs are still being restarted.

The decree is the latest in a series of government decrees devoted the Italian coronavirus state of emergency. The previous decree expired on July 31. The new decree comes into force on August 10 and is valid until September 7.

Travel restrictions remain in force. The new decree does not introduce any concessions - tourists from Russia, as well as the United States and other countries, cannot enter the country with tourist purposes. Only citizens of the European Union, Switzerland and the United Kingdom can travel in Italy. At the same time, Italy requires residents of ten countries, included in the EU's "safe" list, to undergo 14-day quarantine.

Cruise ships are restarted, but with restrictions. Since August 15, the country allowed to resume cruises. However, so far, the routes of the liners are arranged only within the European Union and only for its citizens. And cruise companies require confirmation that the tourist has not left the EU, even for a short time. In Italian ports, only organized excursions will be allowed for tourists.

Meantime, the European Union is in no hurry to open the doors to the Russians, the demand for holiday both in Turkey and in Russia is breaking all records.