From the early days of the pandemic Portugal was able to keep the numbers really low. So far our country is one of the least affected by the pandemic.
The enormous effort done by the Portuguese people and health authorities – confinement and massive testing resulted in low numbers of contamination in the community.
Covid-19 Numbers
Portugal was one of the latest countries to have Covid-19 infection cases in Europe, the first case happen in March and the first to react to it.
Less than 70k positive cases (active cases under 20k) which compared with other touristic destinations is extremely low (updated 16 September).
The Algarve, the main touristic destination in Portugal, has less than 1500 positive cases and 19 deaths. The Algarve has a population of about 450.000, the average positive cases for each 100k is 4 in the last two weeks (updated 16 September). Even with the visit of national tourists (and from most European countries) the Algarve remains with a low percentage of positive cases through the entire pandemic.
Clean & Safe
From the early days of the pandemic the Portuguese Tourism Board [invested in the tourism recovery], with awarded videos and well as innovative procedures regarding the health and security of all involved in the tourism business.
The stamp “Clean & Safe” received huge international recognition from the international community which was copied by several other touristic destination through out Europe and Asia.
The enormous number of touristic agents (hotels, travel agencies, airport transfers, restaurants, etc) that joined the program and the actions/investment done to make everything clean and safe for the customers and employees has resulted for the safe opening of the touristic sector in the Algarve has been a success.
All these factors combined have contributed for the Algarve to continue to be perfect destination your holiday and an example of how tourism can be done even during a pandemic situation.
Mandatory quarantine is not required when arriving to Portugal and many (if not all) airlines companies have resumed the flights back to Faro Airport.
Our extensive golden beaches have received many “Blue flags” and continue to receive it as a proof of the security and cleanness that allow you and your family to enjoy the perfect holiday while keeping the proper safety distance from each other visitor.
Yellowfish Transfers has the “Clean & Safe” which means that we follow all the rules for a clean and safe ride on our vehicles.
Business Measures
Please check below that has been done to ensure the safety of all those who visit or live in the Algarve.
Airport Transfers:
- hand cleaning alcoholic solution
- use of facial mask is mandatory inside the vehicle( drivers and customers)
- vehicles are sanitized before and after each service
- drivers measure their temperature twice a day
Airport:
- Mandatory quarantine is not required
- Temperature Measure System
- Reinforced cleaning and disinfection of all airport areas
- 2 meters social distance
- Use of masks is mandatory (inside all public areas)
Airline companies that are flying into Faro
Edelweiss Air, TUI Belgium, Volotea, Luxair, Transavia, Wizzair, Eurowings, EasyJet, Ryanair, Lufthansa, British Airways and Aer Lingus.
Hotels, resorts and accommodations in general
All accommodations types (hotels, AirBnB, resorts, apartments units, etc) have updated their procedures regarding hygiene measures.
Not all hotels and resorts will open this season, must are already open in full or large percentage.
These units are also integrated in the “Clean & Safe” badge, which means they are obliged to the procedures created by the Portuguese Tourism board and National Health Department.
Beach Access
- Maximum occupancy of 5 people per sunshade / sun umbrella
- Restriction on beach activities with two or more players (football, tennis, etc…)
- An app “info praia” alert system issues warnings regarding the level of occupation of each beach allowing to choose which is the best time or beach to go to
Golf
With the best golf courses in Europe, most of the the Algarve golf courses are open. Each course is responsible to follow the measures established by the Portuguese Golf Federation and National Health Department.
Restaurants & nightlife
The restaurants are reduced to 50% of it’s capacity with a 2 meter social distance between tables. Some may have a physical barrier placed between tables in order to have a larger capacity. Most bars are closed or with timetable restrictions. Discos are closed.
Waterparks and Zoos
Some theme parks are open to visitors with rules of social distance (queues, seated places, etc) and must wear masks on the premises. Entrance tickets must be purchased in advance (online or ticket shops).
Shopping centers and general stores
All commerce stores are open, some business require advanced booking (hairdresser, manicure, medical appointments, etc – without waiting room). Mask is mandatory in all public areas.
