Gran Alacant Forum
Gran Alacant Forum => General Discussions => Topic started by: Derek on March 04, 2020, 19:25.
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Hi
I read that there have been 19 cases of Coronavirus in the Valencia area including Benidorm and Torrevieja resulting in one death so far. I have flights booked for the 17th of this month but I am staying at home instead as it is not in my view worth the risk. The air condition on planes spread germs around the plan. Surely this will ruin the holiday trade if others also play safe.
Derek
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Oh dear.
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We are coming over on Sunday for a couple of weeks. Will take some precautions like a mask on the plane. Will turn off the air con above the seat and won’t eat or drink on the plane. Other than that I can’t see any more risk than staying in the UK. You would have to be very unlucky to find someone on the plane going from UK to Spain with the Virus. The UK media has gone mad over this. It’s getting silly now. Although a serious virus the risk is pretty low at the moment. Personally I would still go. A couple of hundred people throughout the country with a population of about 47 million. If you were staying in a hotel I could understand but your own place should be absolutely fine.
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Yes but tonight's news is 3089 cases in Italy with 107 deaths. All schools and colleges are being closed. Israel have placed restrictions on people travelling there from Spain.
Surely this action would not be taken lightly.
Derek
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Yes that’s Italy not Spain. Spain has less than 200 at the moment. I’m sure it will rise like the UK will rise. You will just have to see what the situation is a few days before your travel dates.
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Agree but Italy had 200 cases before they had 201 and now they have thousands.
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We have hired a villa in Majorca in May, the balance was due to be paid today.....we cancelled the booking.
We will reassess the situation closer to the time and if conditions are more favourable we will look for a late deal.
As it stands at the momen there is no way I want to be in close confinement with180 other folk on an aeroplane.
I phoned our travel insurance company and even if the Government advise against travel we still wouldn't be covered for cancellation costs.
Life is more important than a few weeks in the sun
Regards all
John
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I think people need to stop listening to the media driven hysteria, there's c 100,000 infections out of 6.5bn most still in China.
500,000 die from flu every year but you don't see people not traveling because of this, you have more chance of being killed by a car on a quiet county road thanthe virus ! And masks don't stop you getting virus!
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Hi
Well it is nice to know certain forum members here know sufficiently more about this virus than the Chief Medical Officer,
It is reassuring that there is nothing to worry about and I will rebook my flight later this morning. Amazing that there is no more risk than crossing the road and that a 10% death rate dosn't really matter because of road accidents.
No more hand washing either will result in money being saved on gel.
I think the big difference between normal flu and this virus is that those that are vulnerable, like the young, sick and elderly, can get protection by receiving an annual vaccination.
Derek
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I read that between 13 and 17 thousand people die of the flu in the UK every year.
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This microsite fed with data by the WHO is the one to use if you are interested...
https://www.pharmaceutical-technology.com/special-focus/covid-19/coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak-latest-information-news-and-updates/
The status as of yesterday below
I know its stats but more people recovered yesterday than new cases
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"I know its stats but more people recovered yesterday than new cases"
Could that not be that people are taking precautions to avoid catching it? (rather than as above suggesting there is no greater risk than walking on a rural road).
Derek
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Yes, of course it could be that I guess Derek
Could that not be that people are taking precautions to avoid catching it? (rather than as above suggesting there is no greater risk than walking on a rural road).
Derek
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The U.K. chief Medical officer has not suggested you don't travel or go on just take holidays just take precautions like hand washing. This extra cleanliness is having an impact on all illnesses as flu statistics are also down.
IF you look at the deaths they are nearly all people with serious illnesses anyway, 2 of Spain's deaths were a 99 year old woman and an 82 year old man with serious health issues!
I still think it's hysteria whipped up by the media and people are panicking such as clearing supermarket shelves of toilet rolls etc and cancelling flights and losing money
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Cannot believe the hysteria that that the virus appears to be causing
People bulk buying in shops as if Armageddon is on its way
Basic hygiene appears to be the order of the day, hand washing which I would have thought was a basic requirement for most people
At the present time two people have died in the UK both of them had underlying medical issues
We are talking about less than 200 people in the UK who have contracted the virus which compared to the amount of people that contact flu every year is minuscule.
We now have people wearing masks which do nothing to stop the spread of the virus and if anything increase the risk of infection due to the moisture they hold
People just need to adopt a robust attitude to this and carry on their day to day lives
Obviously if you are susceptible to these sort of infections then the risk increases slightly
But common sense appears to be the order of the day
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Hi Ash
It is really a worry. I have already decided not to fly out on the 17th of this month as there is not a lot to lose on the already paid for Rynair flights.
However I have booked both the ferry and cabin for the 5th April to Spain when I plan to ride over to GA on my motorbike. I am 77 years old in a months time but I consider myself very fit and active. Is the risk worth it I wonder on the ferry and hotels across Spain. What if the ferry is not allowed to disembark like some cruise liners. I expect a lot of people in my age group or older are very worried about this.
Derek
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hello just saying 42 more cases of covid19 in the uk they now say those that have it are travellers bringing it into the uk i dont know how or why are they being let in
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I suppose anyone that moves from a to b is a traveller. Just imagine going from the UK to Spain or Italy and then not being allowed back into your own country when you return.
So I suppose the comment about letting them back in surely they (The government) have no choice if your a Brit.
Derek
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Flew into Alicante again this morning am travelling every 3/4 days see no reason to change at the moment
Don’t understand the panic 1000s every year die in the U.K. from flu and we don’t have this hysteria
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Was there less people on the plane than normal? Also were any wearing face masks?
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Derek
Flight was full like all have been and not one person wearing a face mask
People just need to take a sensible and rational approach
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Thanks Ash
Derek
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We left Alicante airport this morning - it was heaving. I don't know if this is the norm as we usually leave on a Monday. Our flight to Southend was full and only two passengers were wearing masks and they were Chinese.
The Chinese shop by The Sabadell was selling masks for 2 euros each and
there were plenty of toilet rolls in GA if anyone is interested :)
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Also flew in to Southend this morning
Had to laugh at two idiots who had masks round their necks who then put them on for the flight and as soon as we landed took them off again, the stupidity beggars belief
😱😱😂😂
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I think the important thing for us "Boomers" as the youngsters call us, is to carry on behaving as selfishly and irresponsibly as we possibly can.
I for one intend to fly backwards and forwards from the UK on a whim, just for the fun of it, or because I fancy a weekend in the sun... laughing in the face of what is clearly a global pandemic. If more people have the virus in the UK than Spain, it'll be even more amusing as I demonstrate that flying from higher risk areas to lower risk areas is a reasonable and responsible thing to do.
I'll laugh and scoff and people wearing face-masks, tell them they are all panicking snowflakes and do as I please as long as it suits me :)
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"If more people have the virus in the UK than Spain, it'll be even more amusing as I demonstrate that flying from higher risk areas to lower risk areas is a reasonable and responsible thing to do."
Surely the responsible thing to do is not to travel from high risk areas to low risk areas or maybe that would not be as funny.
Derek
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Arrived yesterday from Bristol into Alicante. Flight was full and no one wore a mask. Admittedly I brought two in our case as a precaution for the return flight in 3 weeks as we don’t know how this may turn out over that period of time. The only thing I probably did differently was not read the inflight magazines etc, it certainly wasn’t going to put me off my trip.
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https://www.rtve.es/noticias/20200309/mapa-del-coronavirus-espana/2004681.shtml?fbclid=IwAR1aM0_3CZ_-00cPUfS4YZ4Pt81N_Wh2kQy1g5AniuGhvjSgZ0laPNJgeow
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Honest answers only Please....
Has anyone been stockpiling toilet rolls??? I of course have been looking at these people like they are crazy and if we do run out its because they have made us.....but.... now im thinking, what about if these crazy people do buy it all there will be none left for me..... so I honestly might go out and get some tomorrow ....just in case!!! :)
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Phillip my thoughts are, do I have complete faith in the government and other establishment authorities in a time of possible national crisis. Having worked within said organisations my personal answer is NO I don’t have faith or confidence. Therefore I will take full responsibility for myself and my family. Also bear in mind that many in the establishment were saying last year that if we left the eu, there would be food shortages etc and we would go to hell in a hand cart. Now the very same people are saying the opposite that it will all be fine. Quite frankly I don’t wouldn’t trust them to run a bath let alone a country. So we all make our own choices.
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I've never seen so many guys washing their hands after using the gents in pubs, it must be the fear of picking up the virus, long may the habit persist.
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What's it like in GA, are schools etc closed ? We were supposed to be going on a cruise but expecting it to be cancelled shortly and may come out to Spain for a few weeks😀
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At the moment GA is fully operational as usual - you wouldn't know Coronavirus was in Spain, however things may change over the coming weeks.......
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We were due out the end of March back at the end of April, but we have decided to stay at home. One I'd rather be in UK to support family, grandkids etc. in case parents get it, but more importantly if it does peak with 20% off sick (and I can remember the Hong Kong flu) then how many flights will be operating, flight crew are the most likely to be off.
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How ridiculous, as if we are going to run out of anything that we can't do without. If everyone does as the government says and self isolates etc then we will be fine. It is scaremongering people like you who panic buy that cause problems
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The government aren't telling people to self-isolate, they aren't doing very much at all. In my opinion it's out of control in Spain now, and we are headed the same way as Italy in a matter of days.
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Have to say I am talking about the UK and would hope that Spain are doing the same. We are coming back out next week and have no concerns. The media have created this panic. If everyone could just use a bit of common sense
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Looking forward to flying over with Easyjet from Gatwick tomorrow! I reckon if you follow the common sense advice on cleanliness, etc., there's a good chance of avoiding it, and equally a very good chance of surviving if it is passed on to you!
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https://medium.com/@tomaspueyo/coronavirus-act-today-or-people-will-die-f4d3d9cd99ca
In my opinion, people flying around from country to country in this climate without extremely good reason, are incredibly selfish. Apart from that, there's a very good chance than when Spain goes as high as Italy in the coming days/weeks you'll be here until the UK let's you back in.
Seen those people trapped in Rome whining and complaining? Silly aren't they? That might well be you in two weeks.
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I'm in absolute agreement with you gaveteran.
As I said earlier folks health, not just yours, what about those you come into contact with if you are a carrier, is far more important than two weeks in the sunshine.
Regards all
John
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Hi
I never though I would agree with John but he is in my view spot on with his very wise comments. Not only is your own health at risk but you could survive yourself but kill others. Also you could easily be in a situation where you are not allowed to return to the UK.
Yes we might be over reacting but once you have died or passed it on to others that is it.
Derek
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Seems people in GA are stocking up Roger posted this on Facebook.
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I was just reading through this post and saw the post that said Italy had 3,089 cases of covid 19 on the 4th March and a reply stated yes but thats Italy,not Spain so I looked up todays figures and now Spain has 3,059 cases of covid 19 with 86 current deaths, so we now match closely what Italy had only Eight days ago.
This is how quickly this virus can move, Italy now has 12, 462 cases with 827 deaths. This is the potential for Spain unless people take it seriously.
Todays figures for italy spain and UK just for comparison are
Italy
12, 462 cases with 827 deaths
Spain
3,059 cases with 86 deaths
U.K.
590 cases with 10 deaths
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The latest figures for Italy are now 15,113 cases and 1016 deaths.
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They just closed the schools here, and Mercadona, as of this evening, is basically empty. Not a quails egg to be found (literally). I wasn't there, some friends were, I've been in quarantine for a week.
https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-03-12/basque-country-galicia-and-murcia-close-schools-in-bid-to-slow-coronavirus.html
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I think any person not in there home country in the next few days might find themselves stuck. That might suit some people but with health services under extreme pressures countries may have to make difficult choices over who does and doesn’t get the few resources available. Whilst I seriously hope for the best, I also think it wise to prepare for the worst.
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Life is obviously more valuable than money but the bars in GA were struggling to stay afloat anyway surely now people will stay safe at home. (Home being either in Spain or their own country)
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Well WHO have stated on many occasions that travel bans don't work to stop spread but taking normal precautions as advised. Italy were the first to ban Chinese travelers and that didn't work, Trump banning Europeans won't work either.
So unless UK Gov or your win Government ban travel to Spain I will still be visiting.
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It wont be long....
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain
Sad days
Regards all
John
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chris and jackie - Depending how old you are, and if you have any pre-existing conditions, you might want to check here: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/coronavirus-age-sex-demographics/ to try and calculate your odds of going back home after a couple of weeks in the sun.
Everyone here is being advised to stay indoors if possible, the selfishness of flying here, infecting yourselves quick smart (because it's likely more than 100k people are infected here already and currenty asymptomatic), is truly staggering. If you don't care about your own lives, then at least do your part to protect others and stay where you are.
If being a responsible citizen enough encouragement, then also consider than a great many people from (highly infected) Madrid are arriving in GA daily to hide in their apartments - a combination of selfishness on their part, and - in fairness - straight up fear of staying where they are.
Schools are closed, businesses are closed, shops are empty, and a great many people are self-isolating (like me) - Wake up guys!
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In the Mar Menor just now everyone has been told to self isolate, all bar, restaurants etc are closed and you can only leave the house to go to work, pharmacy or supermarket- police patrols are enforcing this....😳😳😳 this is due to the massive influx from Madrid..
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AS OF MIDNIGHT TONIGHT ALL BARS AND RESTAURANTS IN THE VALENCIAN REGION WILL BE CLOSED FOR 15 DAYS...
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chris and jackie - Depending how old you are, and if you have any pre-existing conditions, you might want to check here: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/coronavirus-age-sex-demographics/ to try and calculate your odds of going back home after a couple of weeks in the sun.
Everyone here is being advised to stay indoors if possible, the selfishness of flying here, infecting yourselves quick smart (because it's likely more than 100k people are infected here already and currenty asymptomatic), is truly staggering. If you don't care about your own lives, then at least do your part to protect others and stay where you are.
If being a responsible citizen enough encouragement, then also consider than a great many people from (highly infected) Madrid are arriving in GA daily to hide in their apartments - a combination of selfishness on their part, and - in fairness - straight up fear of staying where they are.
Schools are closed, businesses are closed, shops are empty, and a great many people are self-isolating (like me) - Wake up guys!
This post so right. The big headed approach and comments suggesting "I know best" and sod it if I kill an elderly person is really great. What an appalling attitude. Gaveteran is correct. The other poster should rethink the degree of arrogance shown by his comments.
Derek
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https://mol.im/a/8109441
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I’m surprised the Daily Fail hasn’t tried to blame it on the EU for trying to kill off the Brexiteers.
Graham
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I think the problem with lock down is that spread of disease such as this one reach a peak then disappear, with people not mixing it will still be there in the background and then when restrictions are lifted will run like wildfire, it could be over quickly without causing massive damage to economies or still reach a peak but over a longer period and cause even more damage to the economy as the problem will go on for much longer. I'm trying to go about normally with frequent hand washing and keeping a couple of metres away from other people if possible and hope for the best.
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I am told that there is now a case in GA. The medical centre had to be evacuated this morning. The person with the virus was from Madrid.
Derek
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Just read that all Jet2 flights currently in route to all areas of Spain, The Canaries and Balearic Islands are turning round and heading back to the UK
Regards all
John
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Jet2 have now cancelled all flights to mainland Spain, Balearics and the Canary Islands with immediate effect!
Flights already in the air are turning around and flying back to the UK.
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You just beat me to it John
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Quick draw Hannon is the name!!
We've now cancelled two holidays, Majorca in May and Corfu in June......I just hope Mr O'Leary starts offering refunds.
#pigsmightfly
Regards all
John
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TUI have cancelled flights to Alicante.
Bert
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Jet2 note
"In response to local measures introduced throughout Spain to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including the closure of bars, restaurants, shops and activities including any water sports, we have taken the decision to cancel all flights to Mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands with immediate effect. We know these local measures will have a significant impact on our customers’ holidays which is why we have taken this decision.
We are contacting our customers who are currently in these destinations, and who are due to travel, to advise them of their options, so we urge customers not to call us.
This is a fast-moving and complex situation and we are reviewing our programme as a matter of urgency, so that we can fly customers back to the UK.
The health and safety of our customers is our number one priority, and we would like to thank our customers for their understanding"
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A rise of 1,500 cases in 24 hours in Spain. The forum member who pointed out to my post that "This is Spain not Italy" when the Spanish cases were at just 200. A bright spark there and for once I am sorry to be proved right. I have just been sent a video taken outside Mercadona this morning at 9.00am. You would not believe the size of the queue to get in and stock up.
Derek
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Hotting up unfortunately. Brittany ferries have cancelled my sailing for April 5th Plymouth to Santander.
I had already decided not to go but at least this should get my money back.
Derek
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Just seen a couple of YouTube videos from Benidorm.
Its quite bizarre - they have closed the beach so now everyone is closer together walking up and down the prom and sitting with their drink of choice (from the supermarkets) on the steps of their favorite closed bars !
They are making it worse by hemming the people in - not the biggest fan of Benidorm but it does have two massive beaches that people cold be safely distant (from each other) on. As it is now it looks like a human soup
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Jet2 may have stopped flying to the Costa Blanca but I've just seen a Ryanair Stansted to Alicante plane land on Flightradar 24.
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I hear that Spain is in a lock down for 15 days. Anyone know if that means flights from the UK will be cancelled?
Derek
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Derek
All the Easyjet flights to Alicante went today
Have no idea why Jet2 didn’t
Horrendous for people who live in Spain
My flight is going this morning and I assume that all flights will cease after midnight tonight
Having seen and spoken to the staff in a supermarket today God help us all with the idiots and their panic buying
All deliveries are a normal so if people just continued shopping normally then we would not be seeing empty shelves everywhere
Some of the 24hr ones even had to close for staff safety because as new deliveries were arriving the public were fighting over them when they came on the shop floor
These individuals should be ashamed of themselves and god help the UK when the lockdown begins
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Unfortunately Ash you won't change peoples "survival" mode.
The supermarkets at home were rammed yesterday, I think that the news of unfolding events close to home in Europe made people realise the inevitable, it will happen here.
Last night's news of isolation for the over 80's will probably make matters even worse today.
I also sadly have to say that some peoples habit of not washing their hands after visiting rest rooms continues....morons.
Stay safe mate.
Regards all
John
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Very sad times. We are due out the first 2 weeks in June. Really hope things have calmed down by then.
I feel sorry for the bar and restaurant owners and their staff as this is going to be a nightmare few weeks.
My little mate Kika who owns the shop on the Carabassi strip will have to dip into his savings.
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Flights are currently still going to mainland Spain from Manchester and Liverpool.
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They are probably rescue flights Gordon
The Foreign Office is today advising against all travel to Spain.
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They are probably rescue flights Gordon
The Foreign Office is today advising against all travel to Spain.
No charter flights as far as I can tell. Also leaving Leeds/Bradford to Alicante.
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Liverpool to Alicante on Tuesday morning can be had at £27.99
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The BHX website is still showing Ryanair shedules but everyone else is now cancelled.
With the FCO guidance now out about not travelling to Spain O'Leary must be getting desperate
Liverpool to Alicante on Tuesday morning can be had at £27.99
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Easyjet web site;
Spanish authorities have implemented strict travel restrictions for flights to, from and within Spain from Monday 16 March. As a result, we will be operating our normal schedule on Sunday 15 and Monday 16 March to try and allow as many people as possible to return home. However, flights from 17 March until 29 March will be cancelled and only a number of rescue flights will operate.
Bert
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Easyjet web site;
Spanish authorities have implemented strict travel restrictions for flights to, from and within Spain from Monday 16 March. As a result, we will be operating our normal schedule on Sunday 15 and Monday 16 March to try and allow as many people as possible to return home. However, flights from 17 March until 29 March will be cancelled and only a number of rescue flights will operate.
Bert
O'leary will carry on as long as possible
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Flew in to Alicante this morning 45 people on flight, all people returning home
Flights will continue until tomorrow then suspended until the 29th
There were two people on the flight who were on the Jet2 flight yesterday who as you can imagine, no reason why they returned the flight because today Jet2 planes were here having to pick UK bound travellers up.
Getting in training now for the 30 metre race in the supermarket tomorrow so can fill up my trolley with stuff that I won’t need but would hate to be left out 🤔😱
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Hi Ash - read the same, but what is the difference in Spain between 15th and 20th March ?
(as in why choose the 19th)
Flew in to Alicante this morning 45 people on flight, all people returning home
Flights will continue until tomorrow then suspended until the 29th
There were two people on the flight who were on the Jet2 flight yesterday who as you can imagine, no reason why they returned the flight because today Jet2 planes were here having to pick UK bound travellers up.
Getting in training now for the 30 metre race in the supermarket tomorrow so can fill up my trolley with stuff that I won’t need but would hate to be left out 🤔😱
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Are there any buses/taxis running to get people to supermarket, hospital or airports for flights home?
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Can still do Bristol to Alicante with Ryanair.
We are waiting for Brittany Ferries to cancel our sailing to Cherbourg. Been planning for years to drive through France then on to Spain, guess it won’t be happening this year. But to be honest I’d rather be home here at the moment.
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Beach life
Sorry you have lost me there
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I am thinking of lumping on that Liverpool flight at £28 and stocking the fridge up with ale and nibbles and being a recluse for 6 weeks.
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This has just been posted on the Trip Advisor Alicante Province Forum
HOSBEC, the accommodation trade association, has agreed that all tourist accommodations will close within 72 hrs.
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Sorry - having re-read I can see why I lost you (and probably everyone else)
Ryanair are only looking at cancelling flights between now and 19th March - Spain will surely be in the same lockdown condition on 20th as it will be on 19th March.
The date of 29th March for resumption of other carriers flights must be under some other assessment in spian that I have no idea about - can't seeing it being "cracked" by then
Beach life
Sorry you have lost me there
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Just to add - their (Ryanair's statment) only suspends flights to 19th - so it will all be OK on 20th ?
"....... Ryanair Group Airlines (including Buzz and Lauda) has been forced to severely reduce flights to/from Spain, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands from 24:00 Sun 15 Mar until 24:00 Thurs 19 Mar....... "
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Just to add - their (Ryanair's statment) only suspends flights to 19th - so it will all be OK on 20th ?
"....... Ryanair Group Airlines (including Buzz and Lauda) has been forced to severely reduce flights to/from Spain, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands from 24:00 Sun 15 Mar until 24:00 Thurs 19 Mar....... "
Still flight going to Alicante every day this week.
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Amazing
Just to add - their (Ryanair's statment) only suspends flights to 19th - so it will all be OK on 20th ?
"....... Ryanair Group Airlines (including Buzz and Lauda) has been forced to severely reduce flights to/from Spain, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands from 24:00 Sun 15 Mar until 24:00 Thurs 19 Mar....... "
Still flight going to Alicante every day this week.
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Well I assume Spanish people want to return for relatives and U.K. Peopl Want to get back so I think it's great that someone is keeping a route open.
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Well I assume Spanish people want to return for relatives and U.K. Peopl Want to get back so I think it's great that someone is keeping a route open.
I expect the Virus also agrees with you. It certainly will help spread it around the world.
Is it safer to travel on the remaining airline than others. Maybe you need the luck of the Irish!!!
Derek
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If you are an elderly couple with no local support are you suggesting they should stay in Spain or whatever country is in lockdown to possibly be left vulnerable if they get ill and can't get food? Most countries are advising their nationals to return home whilst they can.
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Latest news;
Ten green bottles etc. well blue. Ryanair cutting 80% of its seat capacity and might have to ground its entire fleet.
Derek
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Hello all
I was due to fly out to GA this week but am stuck in London for better or worse.
I have a neighbour two doors down from me in GA, a lovely elderly German lady who lives on her own. She has no car and relies on home delivery for her shopping. All her friends have left to go home and she is basically worried she will starve. Are there any groups locally that might be able to assist her?
Thanks if anyone can help and stay safe everyone.
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first Us Old Farts who are in GA Start looking out for each other
On my Urb my Spanish Friends have call round to see if we need any Help food etc.
Returning to UK is no safer than staying here
On the Down side Madrid was the highest level of the Virus and the first to go into lock down
So What happens LARGE numbers Decided to leave Madrid and come to there Holiday homes in GA
Its like the middle of Summer on the Urbs now with the Extra Cars and People, and of cause they Bring the Virus with Them :(
The Up Side is Shops now have Food in them Panic Buying has slowed right Down and People are staying in. :)
At least unlike the UK no old person has been Mugged for there pack of bog roll :(
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Obviously now I am here I am here for a minimum of two weeks
Those of you that know me will know that after 5 minutes I had got on my wife and children’s nerves and am bored already
I am more than happy to go shopping for anyone that can’t get out of their house for any reason and to look in on anyone
My e-mail address is ashley.perham@live.co.uk
❤️❤️🚒🚒
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This may be if help to some
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Very generous of you Ash, well done, and great information Graham
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Latest update for the virus where I live in the county of Suffolk, we have three confirmed cases out of 768,000 people. I had my annual cardio review today and the health professional was saying that there seems to be a huge over reaction, yes older people are vulnerable and should self isolate but for the rest of us, carry on. I must say our local was packed to the rafters yesterday.
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Hi Kevin, our GP who in the last couple of years has won the national Clinician of the Year and Healthcare Leader of the Year awards has said pretty much exactly the opposite in a video he sent to all the patients at the practise today!!
We are a few years away from 70 yet, as you know I have angina and June takes drugs to suppress her immune system......we are therefore taking the advice seriously......no more dancing or eating out for a few months 😟
Regards all
John
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Thank you Ash & John, that’s really helpful.
Ash, I’ll pass your number on just in case she can’t get a direct delivery.
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Just to update on the online deliveries, it seems Mercadona have indeed stopped completely for the time being while Carrefour are only delivering to vulnerable groups only at the moment, so hopefully my neighbour will be able to get an order from them.
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The issue surely is that people under 70 might well be at a much lesser risk of death but they can and will pass it on to others. It is in my view a selfish attitude just to carry on as usual with travel and attending a full house at the local pub.
Absolutely full marks and my admiration for Ash and others that are prepared to help those that are worried and need help. Think of the plight of the homeless together with elderly living alone and unable to leave their homes because of their inability to do so or just the fear, imagine how they are going to cope, maybe between getting another round in a thought for others might not go a miss.
Derek
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Spot on, Derek.
Bert
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Yes spot on. https://www.itv.com/news/2020-03-16/british-tourists-in-spain-ignore-state-of-emergency-measures-despite-rise-in-coronavirus-cases/ watch that and feel the pride just surging through you.
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A friend sent me this.....
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Similarly https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/corona-simulator/ is an excellent resource for educating people as to why attending the local pub not be the best idea (Tip - It gets more positive as you scroll down!)
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Our governments approach to the virus appears to be less draconian than the measures in Spain, I think by not outright banning movement at the moment they are trying to flatten the peak so that although the infection rate will be the same as with no measures it will be spread out to enable the NHS to cope, sadly I think that either way there's going to be a lot of casualties to the vulnerable groups being people in the over eighties and with other health issues, we are very anxious at the moment as our nephew has cystic fibrosis and is currently in a poor state of health, he's fortunate that he always works from home.
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Brittany Ferries is to suspend all passenger services as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
The company, which had already halted some crossings, said the last passenger sailing would leave Santander in Spain on Saturday, bound for Portsmouth.
Passengers will be asked to remain in their cabins over the coming days and bring their own food, as there will be none available on board.
See full story here
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-51928946
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Our crossing is the 14th April. Don’t think we will be on the ferry even if their crossings all return to normal.
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I am sorry to say that no way will the ferries be operating then because the travel restrictions are in place for 30 days. So if I was you I would wait until your booking is cancelled and then request a refund.
Derek
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That’s our intentions Derek.
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It just gets worst. All Hotels in Spain ordered to close and holiday makers must therefore go home. Closing date for ALL hotels 24th March.
Derek
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and no rescue flights this time around I guess ....
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The way some of them have behaved in Benidorm I think they should be made to walk home.
Derek
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I know - put this on the biggest TV in your house. Even if you dont like the music see if you can spot yourself
8) 8) 8)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdS7JaMcyG0
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If easily offended please do not view. Some swearing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Hv56xFjYCE
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Latest from Ryanair
From 24:00 hrs Tue 24 Mar we expect that most if not all Ryanair Group flights will be grounded, except for a very small number of flights to maintain essential connectivity, mostly between the UK and Ireland. Details of these severely reduced schedule can be found on the Travel Advisory page on the Ryanair.com website, which will be updated regularly.
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Michelle, Paul and team are there to help with Sunday lunch
Regards all
John
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Just got back today from Liverpool, Ryanair. Good job too, as it looks like
there won't be flights from next week.
What's the score with supermarkets and farmacia? Coming back thro' GA
it looked like everywhere was closed down.
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Today, Thursday, is a red day. The pharmacy is open 365 days a year. The supermarkets will be open tomorrow but theres always the quicksave who are, of course, open on red days.
People in general are taking the situation very seriously here, as well they should.
Our cases are now up to 17,000 thats 2,300 higher than they were yesterday, and the death rate at 767. We've followed the same kind of pattern as other european countries and the UK will increase in the same way I should think.
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Sorry, but what constitutes a red day?
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National holiday - today is Father's Day in Spain
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Today is the feast of St Joseph (holy day) in Spain and it is called a 'red day' as traditionally bank holidays were marked on the calendar in red!
BW
Maricia
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A mate just sent me this article, I only hope the UK has the capability to do this this quickly...... frightening
https://diariodealicante.net/la-generalitat-construira-3-hospitales-de-campana-con-1-100-camas/
Stay safe
John
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Can anybody please explain what Boris Johnson is doing in the U.K.
Most countries appear to be locking down their countries to try and restrict the virus
The U.K. Government decide that the Private Godfrey approach of would you please mind not going out will encourage the general public not to go out, now the press shows people obviously still going out to pubs, clubs and restaurants.
Unless you order the public to stay in they will go out
You only have to watch the TV or internet or supermarkets to see the intelligence of the people you are dealing with
The only hope is there will be so much food in their house they won’t be able to get to the front door 🤬🤬
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He's frightened of the yob element running riot.
He is going into lock down incrementally rather than closing down with a bang - I suppose he needs the troops in position first.
No new cases in Alicante province in the last 24 hours so being in splendid isolation seems to be working. I hope so because I'm running out of cupboards and wardrobes to clean.
Dave
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I don't think Boris has watched the same lunch time news that I have Ash.
Most folk in the UK now believe it's time for action and not advice.
Ive just received an email from a small chain of hotels weve used in Tenerife a few times, they are currently planning on opening in July and August.......fingers crossed they can.
Stay safe
John
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Boris has announced closure of all pubs, cafes etc and pay 80% of all wages. However not restricting free movement for walks, exercise, shopping etc.
We have family in Italy and the draconian measures there have not worked yet with more illness, deaths than anywhere.
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Lockdown doesn't seem to be working, is this because families are all crushed together so the infection spreads easier , I suspect that mingling between other people and families is still going on so the virus is still being passed about. I read that Germany has a low death rate because it has 25,000 intensive care beds compared to the UK's 5000, Germany has a population a third bigger than us but proportionally it has more beds
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Are the Post offices still open for posting, collection of parcels and mail being delivered?
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https://www.indy100.com/article/coronavirus-spain-lockdown-police-singing-9416531
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.....lockdown is being extended.
https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-03-22/spanish-government-to-extend-state-of-alarm-for-15-days.html
Stay safe
John
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John
I don’t think this has come as a surprise to any of us here
Which just beggars to question why is the UK dragging its heels
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Who knows Ash, its bloody reckless.
For the last couple of years Boris and his mates have been shouting about "controlling our borders" yet over the last couple of months when it was obvious what was about to happen we have been accepting flights from all over the world and the only precaution has been a leaflet some passengers recieved in arrivals.
Our little seaside town was busier than August Bank Holiday yesterday, I strayed no further than the back garden, the local Facebook page was on fire with folk posting in disbelief about the hoards that descended on us, paying no notice whatsoever as to social distancing. They also took the opportunity to visit our supermarkets and wiped them out.....apparantly its the same again today. I can only hope they close the caravan parks early next week to stop folk using the school closures aS an excuse for an extended break on the coast.
A friend in Spain posted an article this morning about the new hospital that opened in Madrid last night.....it has patients already.
I'll post a photograph of it, hopefuly it will make folk think about their actions.
Stay safe
John
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The picture John posted is of the IFEMA conference centre in Madrid set up as a hospital.
Reading the press in Spain it would appear that the number of deaths is due to limited life support equipment here in Spain which is a worry. I know the UK government has purchased the beds in private hospitals to support with demand but will that be enough?
BW
Maricia
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John
This situation has really showed the selfishness and I’m alright attitude of people
I must confess a couple of weeks ago I honestly believed that the situation would be resolved in a couple of weeks
We now have 800 people and nearly 400 people a day dying in Spain a day
The hospitals and staff must be at breaking point
Yet the attitude of both the U.K. Government and a proportion of the residents absolutely beggars belief
100s are still flocking to seaside towns as if nothing is going on
At what point is this going to sink in and people realise that this isn’t going away any time soon
Watching clips of the people still panic buying, certain shops hiking their prices on certain items will remain in people’s memories for a long time after this
Let’s hope they change before it is to late 🤬
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Spainish lockdown extended for two more weeks.
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I’m also amazed at lack of people that don’t seem to be taking this whole situation seriously. I visualise a lot of trouble happening here if Boris brings in a more stricter lock down or even a curfew. I have already read reports of gangs trying to break into shops that have closed. The minds of some people never fail to astonish me. I’m sure we will be the worse behaved country on a total lock down, due to a small minority that think it won’t apply to them.
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As most of you probably know Spain is on lockdown and has been since the 15th of March
People are allowed to shop, goto work and walk there dog
This is in place for another 7 days and looks like being extended for a further 15 days
Nearly 2000 people have died here of Corona Virus related deaths
Emergency hospitals are being set up in conference centres to deal with the amount of people who have contracted it
My two neighbours who are both Intensive care doctors are working 24 hour shifts day after day, they both look absolutely shattered,the Spanish Health Service is buckling under the strain
And what do the people in Britain do, the sun comes out so 1000s decide to have a day out at the beach, park and other venues
At what point do some people decide to take this seriously
I will admit a couple of weeks ago I thought that it would be all over soon and wasn’t a big issue outside of China, well trust me my view has changed dramatically
The individuals who are not taking this seriously really need to wake up and realise this is a World problem and carrying on in their own selfish way is harming so many people
The pictures I have attached was taken this morning when I went shopping, this is how the Spanish are dealing with it, slightly different to the U.K. Shelves are full people shopping responsibly and individuals only going out when it is essential
Let’s hope the U.K. Government wakes up and mimics what other Countries around the world are doing, because unless they do it will never end
Stay safe everyone and think of others ❤️❤️
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As most of you probably know Spain is on lockdown and has been since the 15th of March
People are allowed to shop, goto work and walk there dog
This is in place for another 7 days and looks like being extended for a further 15 days
Nearly 2000 people have died here of Corona Virus related deaths
Emergency hospitals are being set up in conference centres to deal with the amount of people who have contracted it
My two neighbours who are both Intensive care doctors are working 24 hour shifts day after day, they both look absolutely shattered,the Spanish Health Service is buckling under the strain
And what do the people in Britain do, the sun comes out so 1000s decide to have a day out at the beach, park and other venues
At what point do some people decide to take this seriously
I will admit a couple of weeks ago I thought that it would be all over soon and wasn’t a big issue outside of China, well trust me my view has changed dramatically
The individuals who are not taking this seriously really need to wake up and realise this is a World problem and carrying on in their own selfish way is harming so many people
The pictures I have attached was taken this morning when I went shopping, this is how the Spanish are dealing with it, slightly different to the U.K. Shelves are full people shopping responsibly and individuals only going out when it is essential
Let’s hope the U.K. Government wakes up and mimics what other Countries around the world are doing, because unless they do it will never end
Stay safe everyone and think of others ❤️❤️
As of this evening 2207 deaths in Spain.....and the emergency 'hospital' next to Alicante General for an additional 400 beds started groundworks today, with a finish time of 15 days time. Please everyone in the UK - take this seriously - Ash is correct - this is deadly serious.
Stay safe
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Stood down from work this morning as a mobile engineer in the North West/ Yorkshire. 3 weeks at least. Not the news we wanted but at least we get full pay. Hope people in the UK take the advice on board and we can get back to normality. Hope GA is safe. My go to place for switch off. See you soon.
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So the U.K. Government has declared that only essential workers are to travel to,work
Well that clearly didn’t work
Public Transport absolutely packed, roads still jammed
On one video a vital NHS member of staff jammed on a packed tube with 100s of people
Surely the Government will ensure that only Key workers will be allowed to travel
It really isn’t rocket science
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The problem is that the trains & buses have been reduced so those that do need to travel are forced onto fewer trains etc, same has happened in Madrid etc.
There are a number of essential workers, NHS workers, supermarket staff, some teachers, power, pharmacy,communications staff etc . Plus construction workers are still working as normal as permitted .
Therefore a lot of people trying to get on reduced trains & buses.
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If they hadn’t reduced trains and buses the they would be empty, they are still paying the drivers so why not keep the running the same for as long as they can. It don’t make sense
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I do get the feeling that decisions are coloured by economics instead of focussing purely on health considerations.
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https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-52036836
For every idiot who has ignored the Government advice and thinks that remaining indoors doesn’t apply to them, this makes sobering reading.
At what point are some people going to take this seriously
If today isn’t the day to realise that 1000s are dying including Doctors and Nurses who are on the front line then I don’t know when is 🤬🤬🤬🤬
Stay Safe
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Mother in law was taken into hospital a week ago,non virus , she passed through the A&E waiting room during the morning and there were only five people waiting, unheard of.
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I wonder if this "Health Professional" still holds the same view now Kevin and whether those in that pub now regret not taking the advice that was being given!
The health professional was saying that there seems to be a huge over reaction, yes older people are vulnerable and should self isolate but for the rest of us, carry on. I must say our local was packed to the rafters yesterday.
I thought at the time what a stupid comment from this "Health Professional" as obviously younger people can pass it on and kill other more elderly but then that must be alright and a small sacrifice for a good night out.
Having said that in the UK we have lost an 18, 21 and 30 year old. It requires everyone to self isolate young old and those in between and by slowing the spread down it will give the health services a better chance of saving life,
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Well as always you are the expert Derek.
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No I don't claim to be someone that I am not. On this subject I would really have liked the "Health Professional" to have been correct.
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After reading 11 pages and not venturing outside for two weeks, I just thought I would take the time to answer Derek's original question. "Derek, it's quite serious". ;)
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My neighbor in Coventry is a A&E nurse and bizarrely our big UCHW Walsgrave hospital IS very quiet.
Tells me something else - people were coming to A&E for stuff that could have been fixed at a Pharmacy, GP or 111 - but thats not for today
Also, the wards are very quiet as a result of all the cancelled surgery - Its all in prep for the expected cases that are coming in. In Coventry we have not been hit hard (yet) at all - relatively with only 3 deaths all people with very significant underlying conditions. But if you look at the hotspots in North London in particular with over 150 dead and many more in ICU, I wonder where it will end.
We are isolating as much as we can (missing the kids and grandchildren) even though we are relatively young and fit - its the right thing to do.
If anyone gets a chance - have a look at the Sky News (catchup) article tonight on CV-19 from Oxford Uni. So many (thousands) of us in the UK may have already had it and not know - we need (as does the world) cheap and effective testing kits really fast. It would change behaviors and stop the spread
Mother in law was taken into hospital a week ago,non virus , she passed through the A&E waiting room during the morning and there were only five people waiting, unheard of.
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https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/26/spain-coronavirus-response-analysis
Read how Spain got is so wrong.
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As I've been doing errands for an elderly neighbour I've been to a doctor's surgery and multiple chemists and some food shopping as despite the guy being 88 and his wife just come out of hospital having had a cancer op they couldn't get a chemist delivery and food deliveries are backed up, I'm now trying to find someone else to take over as a few days back started a dry cough and felt under par, no other symptoms yet though.
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Sad news, lady died last night from the virus in Calle Canaries, up by Unide, husband in quarantine.
Stay safe everyone.
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This site gives the statistics for the progress of Covid-19 in Spain:
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/spain/
Bert
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Quote //My neighbor in Coventry is a A&E nurse and bizarrely our big UCHW Walsgrave hospital IS very quiet.
Tells me something else - people were coming to A&E for stuff that could have been fixed at a Pharmacy, GP or 111.
Beach life you are spot on, my wife works in A&E at another large midlands hospital, for several years they have failed inspections on a&e waiting times, corridors full, ambos queuing outside, now the department is at 30%, few ambos, little to no walk ins, no gp referrals, no care home referrals. So where are they all you ask. all the staff have thought and said for years that so many attend needlessly which this now proves. That said many others that regularly attend hospital on pointless occasions are no doubt clearing the shelves. When the dust settles they will emerge from under they’re toilet roll and pasta mountain and normal business will resume.
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Have read today that the reason that Italy and Spain has such a high death rate ironically is due to the healthy Mediterranean lifestyle both countries have a very large elderly population and it is this group who are the biggest casualties of the virus.
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Also the fact there are more smokers in both particularly males who have twice the death rate as females will contribute and the habit of both countries of kissing both cheeks in greeting would have helped spread.
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Hi Kevin - is there any info that you have seen that backs up the demographics claims for the higher rate of Italian and Spanish fatalities - I absolutely not doubting you just trying to see that data country by country
Have read today that the reason that Italy and Spain has such a high death rate ironically is due to the healthy Mediterranean lifestyle both countries have a very large elderly population and it is this group who are the biggest casualties of the virus.
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Hi Beachlife, I read it in the Mail, it might not be true as it came from a newspaper but it does have credibility. The question I ask re UK deaths is how many people would have died anyway, an average of 1500 people die every day in the he UK, I can't seem to find a running total at the moment, I know that does not sound nice. It seems that the percentage rate of deaths in the UK is distorted as confirmed virus cases are only recorded in hospitals so as people being hospitalised are likely to be serious and many will subsequently die, the percentage rate of deaths will be high , likely ther are many thousands of infections in communities where people quickly get better but these cases go unreported so the theory is that the percentage of deaths recorded is many times the actual real mortality rate.
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WHAT A MOVING POST
I was going to wait until tomorrow but I don’t feel that I can. Please share this post far and wide. People need to understand just how serious the Coronavirus/Covid-19 is.
My brother David went to hospital by ambulance on Sunday afternoon displaying the symptoms of covid -19. He walked into the ambulance unaided. At the hospital they immediately put him into a deep coma on life support. The test came back positive. On Tuesday his kidneys failed, then his lungs became under attack and although he really didn’t stand a chance, we as a family were hopeful. He was a big, strong man and my big brother. We all knew that he would fight and fight to stay with us. Covid-19 decided differently.
This afternoon the decision was made by his consultant that they could do no more and that he couldn’t come back from this. His life support was switched off and he passed peacefully at 2pm. We are all devastated and can’t really believe that this has happened to him.
He was a loving partner, dad, brother, grandad, uncle, great uncle and a friend to so many people. The next few days will be so difficult.
What people may not know is that because of covid-19 he could not have anybody with him except the ICU nurses who were absolutely wonderful. No visitors. Nobody from his family to sit with him. No family could travel to be with him as we wouldn’t be allowed in. His partner, isolated, not allowed to say goodbye.
We are all being asked to follow the rules.
Just do it.
My brother is not just a statistic in the news.
Save yourselves from the pain and heartache that we are going through.
Please, please share.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3724240840982132&set=a.170426206363631&type=3&eid=ARBzbYnwuJcMeW6IlD4ewQjte4oOZQIODUnMHxjnUaIOFNcrEfYvmaNinDFW0c8Uhjf-6AIuC872UTwF
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Follow up from a brave young lady.
Thank you to each and every one of you who have shared my post about my brother. The shares have reached 69,175 which is amazing.
Word is getting out there to follow the rules, stay indoors, social distance and if you are a key worker, like my friends working in schools, take all the precautions you can.
Thank you for all your kind words to us as a family as we try to come to terms with losing a lovely, gentle, kind and loving man.
Please keep reminding your friends and family not to take any chances. Stay away from each other and stay safe.
Love to you all 💔
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So so sad Derek
My sister-in-law, early 60's, in fine health, not a social mixer, spends her time in her gorgeous garden and reading started with breathing difficulties last Sunday, I'll cut through to the chase, on Friday she called an ambulance, within fifteen minutes she was in an isolation ward, shortly after she was on a ventilator and put into an induced coma, which she is still in. The Doctors are 99% convinced that she has Covid 19, the test results are apparantly taking three days to come through so we obviously cant be 100% sure. All the Doctors will say is that she is very very poorly.
Everyone in the family is gob smacked, we all realised that there was a fair chance that this happen to a loved one, but Janet was the one we all thought was the least likely to catch it, thats why Ive posted this, as several folk have said on this thread listen to advice being given and follow it to the letter......dont be the smart arse who thinks they know better and think that it wont happen to them.
Stay safe
John
and just to add, if anyone in the family has to catch this awful virus we are so thankful that they got it now and not in a few weeks when the NHS will be under unbelievable pressure
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Thats terrible John - begs the question about forms of transmission. As you said, not a social mixer spent her time in the garden etc. How the heck did she catch it (admittedly to be confirmed but sounds like it) The worrying thing is that even sticking to the "rules" doesnt seem to work in a number of cases
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The virus is known to live on an hard surface for up to 72 hours. So signing for a delivery at your front door, being given cash after a purchase, shopping trolley, filling the car up with fuel, touching a door knob, the list and possibilities are endless which is why we are advised to wash our hands as often as possible. The problem is that it is an invisible killer and its transmission is similar to the transmission of harmful bacteria, to which we had to constantly guard against when I was in the dairy trade
Derek
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So the U.K. Government decided that it would allow people out for 1 form of exercise a day as park of the lockdown
Well funnily enough some selfish idiots have decided to totally abuse this and let’s be honest they are not exercising, they are meeting their mates,walking along sea fronts,and just walking round aimlessly risking others in the process.
What is difficult to understand Staying in means staying in
And just to rub peoples face in it they then post their pictures on here just to prove how selfish and ignorant they are.
Yes I appreciate that the lockdown is hard it is for everyone, but I can assure you that the poor people who have lost family members and friends including doctors and nurses are finding it a lot harder.
Maybe show some consideration for others and just Stay In
Trust me some don’t even get the chance to go out
🤬🤬🤬
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The hotels and B&B's in town have been saying that over the last few days they have receiving telephone calls and email requests for Easter bookings, that's Easter 2020.
The only problem with common sense is that it's not that common.
Stay safe
John
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Well said Ash and John H
And wishes for all for a healthy future to all, I have people in my family at high risk (as I know some of you have too) and it just infuriates me to see how some people are behaving
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In the uk we live in a typical suburban area, not near a main road but at least 5 roads back, in a typical day once rush hour is over a couple of cars drive past every hour, the odd dog walker, mum with pushchair and occasional cyclist. Now we have not ventured over the threshold of our drive in 13 days, but its like piccadilly circus outside, constant cars driving past, everyone now seems into fitness with some lycra sights that would keep you up at night, streams of cyclists. What is it with human behaviour that when normally you dont give a rats ar*e, that as soon as your told you cant do something it suddenly becomes essential that you do it.
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Wilson I can only assume that when the Olympics take place next year we will have 1000s of people that will be able to compete in a multitude of events because of the training that they are now doing in the lockdown.
These were the same people who spent hours in the pub or on their settee in front of the tv
The good thing now is that the NHS numbers for heart and blood pressure issues will be reduced due to their extreme fitness 🙄🙄
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Is this history repeating itself?
Interesting video on the Spanish flu 1918
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDY5COg2P2c
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https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-04-04/spanish-government-prepares-to-extend-state-of-alarm.html
Stay safe
John
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Irene &,I are in lockdown been here in our coral for 4 weeks no flights during April when u don't speak Spanish you feel trapped, the only good part is plenty of sunshine on our balcony and maxcoop is only 100 metres away.
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Hi Ian
Surely if you are in lock down not speaking the local language does not really matter unless you are locked in with a Spanish speaking person which could be fun. Any Brit's on holiday were clearly advised by our Government to return to the UK when rescue flights were available. I suppose if you actually live full time in Spain what a wonderful opportunity to learn Spanish as there must be some lessons to be had online.
It is a pain for us all but we are told it is necessary and whilst my neighbours speak English (here in the UK) well some of them do, being in lock down we can't hold a conversation with them.
Derek
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Irene &,I are in lockdown been here in our coral for 4 weeks no flights during April when u don't speak Spanish you feel trapped, the only good part is plenty of sunshine on our balcony and maxcoop is only 100 metres away.
Hi Ian,
We too are under lockdown with limited Spanish and finding it difficult to understand the Spanish media information sources. For information we have been having Spanish lessons for a number of years and can get by but still struggling to understand the Spanish news reporters, so please do not feel isolated at this time.
BW
Maricia
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Have rebooked a free easyJet flight for may ,1st to Manchester it will probably be cancelled again fingers crossed
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For anyone struggling to follow the Spanish news, there are 2 excellent sources of information on the ongoing situation (both in English)
If you are on Facebook then https://www.facebook.com/DrivingSpain/ the other good source is https://english.elpais.com/
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Any sign of Spain relaxing the laws to allow some form of exercise/fresh air as the total lockdown doesn't seem to be working well?
Perhaps everyone cooped up in houses is actually helping virus spread in households plus it must be a nightmare with small children inside for so long.
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"Perhaps everyone cooped up in houses is actually helping virus spread" - you think?
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Chris and Jackie Ive been watching the numbers for this in comparison to SpAin and the UK from 12 March and the UK is consistently about 8 or 9 days behind the numbers in Spain, bearing in mind that the entire coast of Spain and major cities get visitors from all over the world during all of the year, the potential for spread was much worse than some less tourist rich countries and the lockdown essential, and I believe it is the safest way to deal with the spread anywhere.
The UK is still following the similar trajectory to ours over the same timescale but i was concerned yesterday when the total of deaths reached into the 900’s for the UK only five days after Spains numbers did the same thing instead of the eight or nine day gap.
Spains numbers are beginning to level out and deaths have been falling, proof that our lockdown is taking effect. And saying that people in their own homes could be spreading it more is just a bizarre statement. If it spreads in your home it only spreads in your home, if there is no infection in your home it remAins infection free. However in the UK, as your home is still home and you all return there if if spreads in your home it spreads in your home but because you are all able to go out for ‘exercise’ every single member of your household is putting the rest of that household at risk with any possible contact, how do you know if the person you have just passed by is infection free and there is nothing in the air or where you have walked or touch, sad to say the possibility for increased spread multiplies so much more with the UK method
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Latest update from Sky is that U.K. Curve is beginning to flatten, obviously time will tell. The lack of fresh air and exercise will impact overall health as well so personally I think the U.K. Model is good for overall wellbeing.
Even France with high cases are allowing exercise and some European countries starting to ease some restrictions.
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There are a few of us who have been consistent in our message in on here about how serious this is. I for one cannot believe that here in the UK we have not adopted a full and proper lockdown as they have in Spain, yes it will be hard, but if that's the price we have to pay to stay safe it's a small one.
Any belief that life will be back to normal this year is pie in the sky.
Stay safe everyone
John
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My 1st time out for 8 days to do the shopping. I live at Valverde and normally shop at Gran Alacant (still have a property there) but have chose to use the Aldi in Santa Pola as it has proved to be less busy (5 people in at most) and about the same distance to travel.Today the police had road blocks and road closures at all of the roundabouts leading in stopping everyone. Where you are going /where you live/proof with a show of documents. Have more people arrived for easter as many reports are suggesting.
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Any sign of Spain relaxing the laws to allow some form of exercise/fresh air as the total lockdown doesn't seem to be working well?
Perhaps everyone cooped up in houses is actually helping virus spread in households plus it must be a nightmare with small children inside for so long.
I’m struggling to understand which part of this is a serious situation you are not following. We haven’t left our house in England for nearly 3 weeks. My wife on the other hand is on the front line at a large hospital working relentless 12 hour shifts, then having to decontaminate herself before returning home, the dead and dying are everywhere. That’s what I call a nightmare please get a grip.
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My sister in law was admitted to hospital two weeks ago tomorow, within hours of being admitted she was in an induced coma and ventilated, we have been recieving daily updates from the Doctors treating her. With the exception of her lungs all her organs have been working perfectly, unfortunatly her lungs have failed to respond to anything they have done.
They told us on Tuesday that they would be reducing her oxygen saturation later in the week if Janet was showing no signs of improvement.
This morning they told us that they would be turning the oxygen saturation levels down and that we shouldnt raise our hopes of any posotive outcome when they did this.
22 minutes after they reduced Janets saturation she peacefully passed away.
Wilson, a big thank you to your wife and all her collegues.
Its serious.
Stay safe
John
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Hi John
How very sad for your family that the fight was lost.I obviously did not know her but it is difficult not feel for you and your family. We must all do our bit even if it is difficult and financially damaging, yes those that work in the NHS and others helping they are our heroes and hopefully this fact will not be forgotten once this has passed.
Derek
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Thank you Derek, your comments are appreciated.
Stay safe
John
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My sincere condolences John. Incredible that as @wilson says, some people still aren't accepting the reality of the situation.
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So sorry to hear of your loss John.
Stay safe everyone.
Joe
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My heartfelt sympathy for your loss John. And my everlasting gratitude to everyone helping with this awful situation, especially front line and key workers but also including all those simply staying at home because they are helping too.
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Our sincere condoleances to you and your family John. Stay strong.
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John
So sorry to hear of your loss
It must be a very difficult time for both of you
I know that your strength will carry both of you through this heartbreaking time
Hope both of you are ok
Stay Safe 🚒❤️
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Hello John,
So sorry to hear of your loss, particularly difficult when no one could be with her.
I do hope that no other member of your family gets this virus, stay safe,
Michael.
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Thank you all for your kind words, I just hope thats what has happened to Janet and countless others knocks some sense into those who think that this is all media hype and that they are invincible, no one is.
Stay safe
John
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Very sorry to hear of your families loss.
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Flight in may now cancelled
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Hi john so sorry for your loss . I’m with you please people stay indoors
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Deepest sympathies to you and all the family John, and to anyone suffering the loss of a dear one during this horrendous time.
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So sorry for your loss John
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Sadly this guy knew best and paid the price.
https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-us-pastor-who-said-god-is-larger-than-this-virus-and-defied-social-distancing-dies-of-covid-19-11973094
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https://english.elpais.com/
Spain relaxing rules slightly, seems an odd relaxation as now there will be 2 or 3 times the amount of people in shops i.e. Enclosed spaces but not allowed into open spaces!
Where we are it's the opposite , only one from each household in shops and encourage to use wide open spaces.
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I go with my wife to various supermarkets in the UK and we get let in together, haven't yet been separated. I suppose if it's obvious you are a couple who live together it's pointless. People are good at observing the 2 metres spacing where we live, glad we are allowed out for excercise, it must be awful in Spain where you can't go out especially if you have young children.
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Kevin, supermarkets are encouraging people to shop by themselves rather than as a couple or with their children. The fewer people in the shop the better to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.
Ive been shopping three times, three times only since this started, to one supermarket with a shopping list to last a week. I've been going at 7.00pm in order to reduce the chance of being in contact with other people, I've got to say I was bloody annoyed when I saw couples shopping together, I was equaly annoyed when I saw some folk shopping with baskets and only buying two or three items.
I'm the last person in the world to be antisocial, but I've been down right rude with folk who've invaded my 2 metre zone. It makes it far harder to keep to 2 metres when a couple are in a supermarket shopping rather than a person shopping by themselves.
Can I ask that you please think about others, who are obviously taking this more seriously, when you are out shopping.
Stay safe
John
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Good point John I go on my own early morning and get it enough to last for a week plus and do it quickly and in one shop again this morning there were several couples shopping together and one group of about 4 all together ,another couple were looking at new plates and a toaster and bed linen for as the wife said the spare room hardly essential it’s crazy why do it ? It just means we will all have to suffer longer
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Why haven't the supermarkets removed these non/essential items? Are they cynically trying to get round the restrictions?
Bert
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Our supermarkets have removed or closed off non essential items parts. Only one person per household and one way in Tesco.
See Spain have done uturn and children will be allowed for walks from weekend, details to be advised
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I’m with you Bert I don’t know why they have left the non essentials out , but I did really notice today some people were starting to not follow the guidelines and it was very different to the first week when I went . I guess as it goes on longer people are staring to relax the actions which is very worrying
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No gloves available in Dialprix today. This is worrying.
Bert
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Yes you are right John, we do avoid going close to anyone and keep the two metre social distancing, will avoid going together in future.
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As well as the places previously mentioned that are doing home delivery the Azafran started last night. Open from 5pm to 10pm.
Also if you have run out of paint or DIY stuff Leroy Merlin have a telephone ordering service; go to https://www.leroymerlin.es/ and click the New Telephone Service link. €9.95 delivery to GA from Alicante for small items.
Dave
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It certainly looks as if this lock down or a lesser lock down with last for most of this year. It must be a really big financial problem for those that rely on holiday letting to help pay the mortgage on their Spanish property. Many are being paid here in the UK only 80% of their wages. With a tight budget this will have a knock on effect with community fees not being paid etc. I assume that Spanish mortgages still have to be paid which might not be the case. One thing this has taught me is that life as it was should have been valued more.
I cleaned my bike today and put it back into the garage not knowing when I can use it again. I really think that the mental strain of this lock down will take its toll with many whom are worried about their jobs or businesses.I am personally lucky as I live in a rural area in the UK and can safely take our young dog out for walks and for the last four weeks others have helped by doing our shopping. In our case people in the village have really shown a desire to help those that might need such.
Age is indeed a strange thing and I say this because yesterday I reached the young age of 77 but in all honesty it is just a number and it is essential to leave getting old to others. It is nice when neighbours check that we are OK and whilst we are lucky and can manage please do make sure you check on any elderly neighbours just in case they are too proud or frighten to ask for help.
Derek
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https://www.euroweeklynews.com/2020/04/21/bars-in-spains-costa-del-sol-and-costa-blanca-hope-to-re-open-in-june-but-must-comply-with-complicated-conditions/
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Just seen in N332 Facebook that president has announced everyone will be allowed out for exercise/fresh air from 2nd May!
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Dear owners:
We share the news of the ministerial order of Health Ministry which specifies the conditions to walk outside with children under 14 years.
What has to be taken into account?
From next Sunday, 26th April on, you may walk outside with children between Sam and 9pm. The walk lasts maximum 1 hour and a maximum distance of 1km from home.
Also, it is allowed a group of one adult and 3 children, leaving a minimal distance of 2m, if possible, with any other group walking around.
The person accompanying the children has to be adult and live with the girl or boy at the same home, or be an employee of the family at charge of the child. When the adult is not parent, guardian, healer, etc, they have to count with the previous authorisation of these.
Children with possible symptoms of Covid-19 may not leave home.
Also those who are under quarantine due to confirmed case of Covid-19 or are in quarantine period because they have been in contact with any person with symptoms or who has been diagnosed.
As administration of communities we would like to remind that it is still forbidden to use the common facilities of the urbanizations.
It is also forbidden to access children playgrounds or sports facilities. You may circulate on any road or public used space, including natural and authorised green areas, with the proviso to respect the maximum limit of 1km from the home of the minor.
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FIVE DAYS WITHOUT DEATHS FROM CORONAVIRUS IN HOSPITALS OF ALICANTE, ELCHE AND TORREVIEJA
Hopefully a sign of success early days but gives hope.
Derek
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That’s great news, keeps us updated, hopefully book some flights to come out soon !!!
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That certainly sounds more encouraging than the inexorable rise in the death toll that we have in the UK, notwithstanding the endeavours of the politicians to put a positive spin on them with talk of flattened curves.
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Jolly Roger are advertising on Facebook that they are reopening on 11th May so things must be improving!
not sure how the small bar will fit in with new guidelines, guess somewhere like Molly Malones with plenty of outside space will cope better.
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There are so few people out in GA - I cant imagine that working to 30% capacity will be a problem for any bar
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It certainly looks as if this lock down or a lesser lock down with last for most of this year. It must be a really big financial problem for those that rely on holiday letting to help pay the mortgage on their Spanish property. Many are being paid here in the UK only 80% of their wages. With a tight budget this will have a knock on effect with community fees not being paid etc. I assume that Spanish mortgages still have to be paid which might not be the case. One thing this has taught me is that life as it was should have been valued more.
I cleaned my bike today and put it back into the garage not knowing when I can use it again. I really think that the mental strain of this lock down will take its toll with many whom are worried about their jobs or businesses.I am personally lucky as I live in a rural area in the UK and can safely take our young dog out for walks and for the last four weeks others have helped by doing our shopping. In our case people in the village have really shown a desire to help those that might need such.
Age is indeed a strange thing and I say this because yesterday I reached the young age of 77 but in all honesty it is just a number and it is essential to leave getting old to others. It is nice when neighbours check that we are OK and whilst we are lucky and can manage please do make sure you check on any elderly neighbours just in case they are too proud or frighten to ask for help.
Derek
Derek I remember 20 years ago a couple that were on our inspection trip were looking at buying an apartment, but they explained they would need to have it booked out for over 20 weeks a year to be able to afford it.
Well what was the point of having a property in Spain that they would not be able to use in the peak times and also the fact that booking it out for 20+ weeks was not achievable.
So I have never understood why people buy properties and then have to rely on rentals to be able to afford it, yes having a mortgage is one thing but if you can’t afford the mortgage payments and other bills associated with owning a property then maybe a foreign property is affordable, irrespective of the current issues.
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When we rented ours out for a few years initially, occupancy worked out at about 10 or 11 weeks a year. The best we ever got was fifteen. Even then it only covered the annual running costs and the price of a couple of flights a year. It's never going to make you rich.
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When we were on our inspection trip with Masa our rep gave us two good bits of advice
1) No matter how much you spend, you still get the same amount of sun,
2) Don't buy if you rely heavily on rental income because there are a lot more properties than punters for the majority of the year.
Good advice. We've never had, or needed a penny in rent from our place.
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What an absolute worry my wife taken away this evening by Ambulance to a Coronavirus assessment ward at Salisbury hospital. She hasn't left the house in seven weeks so hopefully the Doctor and ambulance crew have it wrong.
Waiting game now while she is checked out.
Derek
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Nightmare Derek hope it all turns out ok
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Bloody hell Derek, I can understand you worry, I pray that they are being over cautious.
As Spurs said what a nightmare, hope she's back home shortly
Regards
John
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I´m sure I speak for all the forum members in extending our support and best wishes at this difficult time. We´re all praying for a happy outcome. Stay strong.
Bert
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I really hope everything turns out well and your wife is home soon. Stay strong Derek.
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Sorry to hear that. My daughter is a physio there I’ve been locked in 7 weeks and had to miss her physio for my lung condition. She has even moved to live on her own in the city to protect the family. They are brilliant up there . Really hope it’s a false alarm and very best wishes.
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Many thanks all.
The ambulance team told me to phone after four hours which I did. I asked if she was negative but was told the results will not be known for three days. They have admitted her and are going to do further tests this morning. She had been unwell for over a week and she is normally very active and never goes to the Doctors. I insisted last Monday she contacted the Doctor whom gave a consultation on the phone. On Wednesday I was concerned her condition was worsening so I phone again only to have the same consultation over the phone. Yesterday evening I was getting concerned so I phoned 111 and they sent a Doctor around to check her out. He said she had a temperature and her oxygen level who low and he would arrange for an ambulance to take her into hospital for tests. When the paramedics arrived and did further tests they said she had several of the Coronavirus symptoms and that was why the Doctor had arranged to have her taken to hospital.
It was the time the whole road was clapping for the NHS and we had to go one better with an ambulance parked outside etc. Although she is obviously unwell (sick) I cannot believe she has the coronavirus as she hasn't left our house for seven weeks unless I have picked it up as a carrier but not actually had any ill effect. I have felt 100% since the virus first emerged.
At least she is in the right place and hopefully they will find out why she is feeling so ill and her oxygen level was low etc.
Derek
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Thoughts are with you and your wife. Wishing her a speedy recovery.
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We sincerely hope your wife recovers quickly Derek, a very worrying time.
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I would like to add my best wishes for a speedy recovery for you wife
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Worrying times, hope everything will be ok
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My thoughts are with you. If she's been home all that time I am confident it's a false alarm! Stay strong.
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Hi Everyone
Update I have just received a call from the Doctor who is treating her at Salisbury Hospital The test results have come back negative and they think she has pneumonia which she has responded well to the treatment. She is eating and off oxygen and likely to come home today. What a relief for one moment I thought I was going to run out of clean plates etc and actually have do the washing up myself.
Thanks again for the kind comments given.
Derek
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Great news. Hope your wife has a speedy recovery.
Bert
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Excellent news Derek,.
Take care
Regards
John
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Great news Derek!
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Great news Derek - what a relief for you all
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Fantastic news.
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Brilliant news derek
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Very glad to hear your news. Wishing her a speedy recovery.
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Wonderful news
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So pleased to get some good news at this time.
So happy for you Derek.
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Great News Derek
I hope her recovery continues
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Friend of mine flew to the U.K. from Madrid yesterday (don’t know her reasons)
She took a train from Alicante to Madrid
Flew to Heathrow with Iberia
Can not believe the amount of people on the plane
And when she arrived at Heathrow it was like normal no staff in PPE
INCREDIBLE
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I assume with so few flights, some will take the risk to fly especially if they're healthy. Passengers also have option not to fly if not happy with capacity but you en run risk if no t getting to destination.
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Speedy recovery Derek.
Best wishes.
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https://www.brittany-ferries.co.uk/information/coronavirus/ceo-message
Does this sound like big trouble ahead?
Derek
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Unfortunately he doesn't say what the 'Stage Two' plans are.
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Presumably more job cuts & cuts to services