Important rule change in DAYS for Irish tourists in Spain

THOUSANDS of Irish holidaymakers fly to Spain as the Easter holidays mark the start of the exodus to the summer hotspot.

But although the Covid-19 restrictions are almost a thing of the past here, rules and travel regulations still apply elsewhere.

3

3

Spanish health officials have reported a drop in virus cases since the last spike in January, with Covid hospitalizations down to just 3.5 percent.

But Irish holidaymakers will still be subject to a number of requirements when they land in the popular country Vacation Goal.

According to Spain’s Travel Health to enter SpainAll passengers, regardless of their country of origin, must present an EU Digital Covid Certificate, a negative active infection diagnostic test certificate or a certificate of recovery.

Passengers can present results of a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to arrival in Spain or a negative antigen test performed within 24 hours prior to arrival in Spain.

Children under the age of 12 and passengers in international transit are not required to present any of the above documents.

Passengers are also required to complete the SpTH health check form – by manually entering the details of their vaccination, recovery or diagnostic test certificate.

However, your second dose must have been given within 270 days of your arrival in Spain.

If not then you must have a refresher or you will not be allowed into the country.

And a major rule change comes into effect for people traveling to Spain after the Easter holidays.

The Spanish government will remove the obligation to wear face masks indoors, but it will remain in place on public transport.

Health Secretary Carolina Darias on Thursday confirmed the changes from April 20 ahead of the expected influx of tourists during the summer months.

Masks are still compulsory on public transport, in hospitals and nursing homes.

TOURIST TAX

Meanwhile, Irish tourists holidaying in Benidorm could be forced to spend more on their sun break if a new tourist tax occurs.

From next year, stays in Spain could become more expensive as the government in Valencia introduces an overnight stay fee.

The tax is levied on vacationers staying in various types of accommodation – hotels, campsites, hostels and country houses.

The tax could cost 50 cents per night for campsites or hostels, rising to €2 for each night in a four or five star hotel.

The tax is per person, which means that an Irish family of five staying in a hotel or apartment for two weeks could end up paying an additional €140 for their holiday.

STORM RAILS

Meanwhile, Irish tourists hoping to break away from the travel chaos here are finding their Spanish holidays on hold due to the violent storms sweep across the land.

Beach bar owners said their Easter hopes were ruined after storms wreaked havoc in recent weeks that have already left resorts with thousands in repair bills.

And Irish tourists heading to Mallorca could be affected hefty restaurant and pub bills this summer – as hard-hit companies face rising costs.

And for those who go there Barcelonaa mistake on the beach could result in a €30 fine.

Council leaders recently extended a smoking ban to all ten beaches of Barcelona from July.

They cite health reasons and say it takes a decade for cigarette butts to dissipate.

Eloi Badia, councilor for the ecological transition, said: “Last year no one was fined and only the odd scattered smoker had to be asked to move onto the promenade.”

The ban comes into effect after an information campaign that began in April.

3