Greece has again dominated ‘Europe’s Top 10 Islands’ category at this year’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, with Paros taking first place.
Travel + Leisure (T+L) is a travel magazine based in New York City, and is known as one of the world’s most influential travel brands. Every year T+L holds their World’s Best Awards survey, asking millions of readers worldwide to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe- sharing their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more.
In the category of ‘Europe’s Top 10 Islands’, readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.
“This 76-square-mile shelter has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, with white sands surrounded by steep cliffs and turquoise waters. The inland of the island fascinates visitors with its traditional Cycladic architecture, small villages and ancient monuments. Those who are looking for nightlife will be happy with the many clubs on the island, while those who prefer relaxation can also enjoy massage and quiet moments,” said T+L.
Paros was also named Best Island in Europe for 2018 by T+L
In 2019, Milos was named T+L's Best Island in Europe.
The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) announced that all passengers arriving in Greece must fill in a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) at least 24 hours before they check in for their flight, providing information that will include their departure airport, the address where they will be staying and the expected duration of their stay in Greece, among others.
The information on the form is a key element of the country’s planning for protection against the pandemic and preventing the spread of the virus.
The data from each traveller will be analysed and based on it, they will receive a special barcode which will determine if upon arrival the passenger will be tested for COVID-19 or not.
Before travelling, it is still paramount that you check the travel restrictions in place for the country or island you want to visit.
Last week, Greece launched an information campaign “Enjoy your stay – Stay safe”, urging tourists to be mindful of health ru
les during their holiday in the country.
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection issued nine directives for the necessary protection measures:
- Use hand antiseptic often
- Wear a mask
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes
- Dispose your mask and gloves safely in waste bins
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissue
- Keep your distance
- Prefer contactless transactions when available
- Avoid using elevators
Greek authorities are hoping to salvage the season and limit some of the losses incurred by the tourism industry while maintaining the positive momentum achieved by the successful management of the first wave of the novel virus.
The messages will be located at all entry points (airports and ports) and will be available in three languages – English, French and German. Flyers will also be distributed to travellers.
In addition, basic rules for travellers on both international and domestic flights require mandatory use of a mask for those entering the airport building, where only holders of a ticket are permitted to enter except in cases where an escort is essential, such as for children or disabled persons.
Protective barriers have been installed at all points where the public is served, while masks must be worn at all times in the airport and on flights except when they are required to be removed for security and identity checks. Changing the mask every four hours is recommended.
Staff will be equipped with PPE and a distance of 1.5 metres from others must be maintained at all times. Surfaces and equipment will be regularly disinfected while antiseptics will be available in airport waiting areas and toilets. Plastic bins used at the security checkpoints will be disinfected between each use.
Passengers are also advised to use web check-in and self-check-in, luggage tag printing, baggage drop off and e-parking where possible.
*Image by Polina Paraskevopoulou (Copyright)
