Gran Alacant Forum
Gran Alacant Forum => General Discussions => Topic started by: BeachLife on April 28, 2020, 20:44.
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Just seen this - the sources are at the bottom:
♦️ DEESCALATION FASES SPAIN #COVID19
🔹 FASE 0 (4th of May)
Preparation for opening small businesses, food delivery...
🔹 FASE 1 (11th of May)
Opening of small commercials, terraces open with 33% capacity, tourist accommodation with restricciones - there will be preferential times for those of 65 for their safety.
🔹 FASE 2 (25th of May)
Fishing and hunting will be allowed, opening of inside space for bars and restaurants, cinemas, theatres etc with a capacity of 33%
🔹 FASE 3 (8th of June)
Flexibility of freedom of movement. Commercial centres and shops with an increased capacity of 50%. Restaurants and bars will increase the capacity.
🔹 FASE 4 (22nd of June)
New normality starts.
🔸 The Canary and Balearic Islands will start the 1st fase on the 4th of May.
🔸 There will be a minimum of 2 weeks per fase but each fase can be extended to 6 weeks depending on the situation in each area therefore the dates above are just a guideline providing things go well.
🔸 This is the proposal of the government today 28th of April. This has been a brief summary presentation. We will publish all the official and detailed information published in BOE as soon as they do.
▪️ SOURCE “EL MUNDO”
👉 https://www.google.es/amp/s/amp.elmundo.es/ciencia-y-salud/salud/2020/04/28/5ea7d45efdddff382a8b462b.html
▪️ SOURCE “ LA SEXTA”
👉 https://www.google.es/amp/s/amp.lasexta.com/noticias/nacional/coronavirus-espana-ultima-hora-fallecidos-nuevos-casos-directo_202004285ea7bc9d3b1d860001d36ef5.html
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Good news and something which seems official for a change. Something similar was posted last night on the GA facebook page.
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I've got to say you have to applaud Spain on the action they have taken to date, I wish the UK had taken similar action, however I'm not very optomistic as to what will happen going forward.
According to the World Health Assembly we have only eradicated one virus, smallpox.
We have been searching for a vaccine for HIV for over TWENTY YEARS, without success.........
Sorry to puy a dampener on things.....when we were growing up most stories ended with "they all lived happily ever after'......but thats not real life.
Regards all
John
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On a positive note John when I was a kid Polio caused many youngsters to be crippled for life which is not the case today. Freddy Mercury died of Aids some 29 years ago but today people live with HIV.
The black plague is certainly not still killing people in London. There are many illnesses that were once life threatening but today people are not killed by such.
It is amazing what the Drug companies do for mankind and it is certainly amazing what our own NHS service does. Even whilst some were criticising the NHS the year before last I personally experienced the speed and care they give when one is in their greatest need. They saved my life and the Surgeon put his hand on my shoulder wished me will and said job done.
Let us all hope and for those that are religious to pray that even if this virus cannot be eradicated people will be able to recover from it.
Derek
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tHi Derek, I'm generally an optomistic type of guy and take a rather blasé approach to life and events.........the events of the last few weeks have changed this.
The keep safe mode has definately kicked in, since the precautions started, I hate the phrase "lock down", I've been to the supermarket three times, on an evening when there's more chance of being able to maintain social distancing, been to the pharmacy once....I waited outside until no one was in there.....and apart from walks up the Lane from home, a couple of miles to a farm house where the road ends and you never see a soul, thats been it.
I didnt even attend my sister in laws cremation service today.
My frustration is the talk of "easing the lockdown".
I read something the other day that summed it up perfectly; "the curve is flattening, we can start lifting restrictions now" = "the parachute has slowed our rate of descent, we can take it off now"
I do believe, taking a rather pessimistic approach, that a return to "normality" will be driven more by the economical reasons than the safety of the individual.
I pray that you are spot on Derek and that the drug companies can find a vaccine that can give us immunisation or greatly reduce the effects of this virus and life can return to normal.....although I would guess with a different set of values, the last few weeks ahve made us realise what's important.
Belated birthday wishes for last week by the way.
Regards all
John
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A good balanced answer John and thanks for the birthday wishes.
I expect most people are so worried, as I am, about how and when life will return to normal.
Derek
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Not the best news from Spain (source is ABC online) - Its a Google translate so apologies for grammar. I have no idea of what the tourism industry is exactly to Spain's GDP but I read a couple of years ago it was between 12 and 15%.
ADDED: In 2016, the tourism sector made a total contribution of around 159 billion euros to GDP in Spain and added a total of around 2.65 million jobs.
Thats gonna hurt - the knock on effect when the Germans refuse a EU bailout will be interesting
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The Government expects that the closure of borders will last until October. In an "indicative" schedule, the Executive contemplates that the restrictions to the mobility of people remain until well into the autumn
The restrictions on the arrival of international tourists to Spain will last until October. It is the forecast handled by the Government, which yesterday approved in the Council of Ministers a calendar that maintains restrictions on mobility and the closure of borders until well into autumn.
This calendar was reflected in a "guideline" schedule that is not "exhaustive". "The decisions and specific dates on the effective lifting of any limitation established during the state of alarm will be determined through the corresponding legal instruments," explains the document, signed by the Ministry of Health.
The Executive also clarifies that the lifting will have different evolution "if everything evolves favorably against scenarios with outbreaks of different severity that could lengthen the process."
As ABC announced, the Government was already working in early April with a plan that contemplated a summer without foreign tourism, with the borders closed in that case. A two-way measure, both for inputs and outputs. In other words, the Spaniards come to the idea that in the summer period, no one will leave the national territory, unless a specific health certificate recommends it.
The tourism sector has begun to assume that the arrival of foreign visitors this summer will be impossible. This Tuesday, Iberia's proprietary holding company, IAG, said in a statement sent to the CNMV that it expected the crisis to last for years. And in the Sepla pilots union they contemplate that the flights do not recover the pre-crisis levels until 2023
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If true I would expect massive permanent job losses across Spain including the airlines etc. in addition a lot of community fees won't be paid by owners who can't visit.
SPain will be in recession for many years to come.
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"A lot of community fees won't be paid by owners who can't visit." - Not since the start of this crisis have I actually shed a tear, but that is just so selfish and frustrating that I gave up. What animals we are.
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Worded response wrong, meant to say a lot of owners who rent out to get income to cover community fess, rates etc probably won't or can't pay bills. I will be paying mine!
Still consider there will be massive job losses if border remains closed for 2020.
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Looking at the annual minutes of our community a lot of owners have not paid their community fees for many months before the pandemic. Spain will survive like the uk will survive. If it’s October then so be it . If I can’t come over till Christmas then that’s ok it’s only a holiday home in the overall scheme it’s not that important all that matters really is we follow the guidelines stay safe and beat this and stop the horrific daily death toll
After that is done then people can start looking at everything thing else , holidays jobs etc must come second
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I think all Governments are grappling with issue of when/how to ease lockdowns as they have to get economies moving again as the long term issues may be worse than the virus e.g. No money for health services, mass unemployment , mental health and abuse issues.
It needs to be balanced carefully and hopefully U.K. Will ease restrictions from next week.
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670 deaths yesterday and 4000 new cases and you talk of easing the lockdown next week!!
I don't think I'm in the same world as some folk.
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John, appreciate your family has had some tragic news but personally I would be happy to see lockdown measures eased as infection rate is falling.
ITs the older population who are most at risk who want the lockdown to carry on but if course they are also mainly those who have secure retirement incomes, houses, comfortable lifestyle. The younger population who have minimal risk are the ones suffering most as they need the income to pay rent, mortgages etc and the country needs their tax contributions to survive.
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Can’t see it guys sorry I think we are ages away from lifting it and letting people return to work now is the time to sit tight hold the gains and plan for the next steps not lift the lockdown . I think we will be in lockdown until June at least , we cannot afford to get a second spike and allowing people out now will cause that .
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This is a really interesting and good debate - these views are my own and are backed up by my own personal experience.
So, I lost my Dad - he passed away on the 18th April and the 6 of us (that was all that was allowed) went to the Crematorium in Coventry seated a long way apart, no Chapel of rest. no cars and we were only allowed a very basic casket.
My dad was 90 and had been in a care home for a year when he passed. His cause of death - on his certificate was COVID-19. He DID NOT die of CV-19 because 4 days before he had been discharged from hospital following a UTI but HE WAS TESTED before being returned to the home as is procedure and was not infected. But because he had been out of the home he was in isolation when he entered the end of life pathway and subsequently passed,
I questioned the death cert with the registrar and all care home deaths when the patient is in isolation is added to the overall COVID death stats.
Now onto the broader question of the future of our young and working people vs the ramifications of COVID on the general population, the current death rate is low - I was surprised when I fact checked the https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/ website. The actual death rate OF THE GENERAL POPULATION is very small - Spain is 0.53% Italy 0.47% UK 0.39%. Behind every one of those numbers is a personal tragedy and I am NOT underplaying this.
But (and please be gentle with any response) - I would not like to even guess what is an acceptable level from ANY disease but at what point do we stop the lockdown to prevent binning the future of our working children and grandchildren ?
I have had first hand experience of what a bleak employment Winter looks like. Coming out of my apprenticeship in 1981 during all the strikes and trying to survive for 18 months on scraps was horrible and stayed with me forever.
I just posing a question - how far do we let the worlds economies collapse down to vs the life and death impact of this horrible virus ?
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In our family we have different views, my mother who is in late 80s and doesn't really go any where much is happy enough with lockdown although missing personal visits but no real impact. My son & his girlfriend are due to start new jobs in 2 weeks in a different part of country and need lockdown to ease so they can move to start new jobs.
Personally I think lockdown needs easing soon in UK as most European countries are doing and try and save economy and some jobs, you only need to see the headlines of companies shedding staff, companies going into administration etc to see what's happening. As I said previously the well off older population want lockdown to continue and most others don't.
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Beachlife, what you say makes sense to me, I'm classed as moderately vulnerable having had a heart attack four years ago and am sixty four, I'm fit and about the right weight for my height. I'm more concerned for my kids jobs and my grandchildren than I am about me, ive had a relatively prosperous life but I am very worried about the younger generation, we can't stay in lockdown much longer and think that the vulnerable will have to make their own decision about whether to rejoin normal life or stay in isolation. It's going to be a very difficult situation but if no vaccine becomes available and people don't produce antibodies after having the virus people will have to accept that there is going to be a large element of risk for quite a while, a question that's being asked a lot is how many people will die of deprivation and disease if economies collapse and unemployment becomes massive it's not an unreasonable question.
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We are only 5 weeks into this.........yes the economy is important, but life is even more important.
If we relax measures too early when will you want them reinstated...3000 deaths a day, 4000 deaths a day...10,000 deaths a day.
Let's sit and wait and see what happens in other countries.....we've pretty much ingnored the learnings from other countries so far so it might be a good time to pay heed.
When this is all over income tax may go up by 10p .....small price I'd be prepared to pay to still be kicking about.
Tax on flight might shoot up.....so what.......I'd still be here to go on holiday.
Regards all
John
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BeachLife, sorry to hear about your Dad.
Regards all
John
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Yes it's early days John, hopefully in month the situation will be clearer, there's no doubt that the lockdown won't go on for six months as that would be the end of life as we know it. It will be the young generation that are going to bear the brunt of the economics of the virus, I get my personal pension , income from property and got my state pension to look forward to do we are fine, it must be if you are young and have a family very frightening as unemployment is going to soar. Anyway as you say it's early days hopefully in a month we can start to enjoy some freedom.
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Thanks John
BeachLife, sorry to hear about your Dad.
Regards all
John
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I remember saying to the wife in February that the response to the pandemic would be all about the money, a simple ratio of how many deaths vs daily economic cost. I fully understand the financial hardship that many endure and potentially for years to come. But saving life surely must come first, it’s ironic that 600 deaths a day is spoken as we’re past the peak and it’s not too bad, well in my world it still seems dire. I think keeping the lockdown going until deaths are zero is the only sensible option because when your dead your dead. Yes young families starting out may lose they’re jobs and homes it’s tough but that is what needs to happen. Maybe a couple of 12 hour shifts on a covid ward bagging the dead might change the impatient ones mind.
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Wilson, fully appreciate your views and there have been many tragedies.
However your comments highlight the difference in the country between the older wel off population who want lockdown to continue as they are higher risk and the younger working population who need to get back to work to earn much needed income.
It's all well & good saying young families can lose their homes & jobs and it's tough when it's not your home, job & family who are deprived.
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It's interesting to note the when the Government thought that only the older ones would die from this disease they spoke of "herd immunity".....a bit like euthanasia I thought at the time...they also didn't think that at that point contact tracing was that important, its only the old ones dieing........now that we've discovered that Covid 19 can kill you whatever age you are the approach appears to be changing.
Do I want my son and grandson going back to work with our current understanding of this disease....no way.
Folk will be hard up
Jobs will be lost
Properties may be lost
But at least they'll be alive......you cant put a value on that.
Regards all
John
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Wilson, fully appreciate your views and there have been many tragedies.
However your comments highlight the difference in the country between the older wel off population who want lockdown to continue as they are higher risk and the younger working population who need to get back to work to earn much needed income.
It's all well & good saying young families can lose their homes & jobs and it's tough when it's not your home, job & family who are deprived.
Never make assumptions I’m only 52, my last working day was the 20th March which was also the last day I received any income, my first mortgage payment holiday is actually today for 3 months, though they still want the money back in August, I’m sending my car back this month and living off my wife’s income and savings which are dwindling fast. This I believe is a sacrifice worth making for the greater good of the country, sadly some people show selfish me me me attitude bleating about trivial materialistic things which can be replaced ,because as my grandad once said your a long time dead. Support the nhs and support the government and stop whining.
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I don't think anyone is whining or being selfish there is a reasoned debate going on and following U.K. Plans to ease lockdown this week it will continue.
It's not a question of trivial materialistic things a lot of people are struggling to pay for food,heating etc for their families and don't have the luxury of savings or second incomes.
Whatever we think or want the easing of lockdown is starting across the globe and will continue and some can choose to stay indoors if they wish.
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Still sounds whining and selfish to me, there is no debate just do as your told it’s not that difficult.
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We don't live in North Korea and we are allowed to debate and question that's democracy!! Everyone will have a different perspective on who's being selfish, the well off with second incomes/savings/second houses etc who want lockdown to continue or the younger workers who want to get back to work.
The U.K. chancellor has already said the present level of benefits is unsustainable and we need to ease workers back.
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Your right - its the "uncomfortable" truth.
Benefits wont be able to be sustained for more than a few more weeks - perhaps a month. Then its down to tough choices, those that can afford it will continue to isolate and protect themselves until such a time as the infection / death rate drops to an acceptable level (whatever that is) or they run out of cash / benefits and have to work.
Those that need to work (like my 3 furloughed kids and their partners) will and try to keep as safe as possible whilst keeping their homes intact and bills paid - IF we can get to R0 (1 person infecting less than 1 other person) life will continue to return to some sort of normality. Although I am under no illusion that it will ever be quite the same until there is a vaccine.
On another note - just watched a BBC 2 VE day program on what life was like during the war on the home front. This is nothing compared to what they went through
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I agree Rich people who lived during the 1930s depression followed soon after by 6 years of war, those times were tough, but the majority made that sacrifice for king and country. All I hear at the moment on radio talk shows are baby boomers belly aching about what they’re not happy with. Democracy is designed to keep people happy, the reality is we’re a country with rules and laws and ultimately you do what your told whether you agree or not .
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See a number of the bars etc are opening in gran alacant next week following the movement into Phase1 for most of country, some of islands opened up this week. Some good news for local economy.
Looks like Boris will set out the easing of measures on Sunday to ease workers back in to work in UK to get our economy going again.
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The bars struggle to cover costs during the winter months, this will be much worse . As for the phases of easing lockdown each phase will increase the chances of infection. Having fought off pneumonia twice in my lifetime and hospitalised each time this is something i would like to avoid. When the spread first started and it was unclear if hospitals would cope it did cross my mind that if there was a shortage of ventilators and a choice had to be made would nationality come in to the equation. In Italy the choice was made on underlying health conditions. So no the bars wont get my custom i will keep my distance.
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Looks like we are remaining in 0 Phase.
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Yes Alicante and Elche are staying in Fase 0 until at least Friday when it will be reviewed.
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I thought Alicante region was one of the better ones , looks like anyone interested will have to go to Torre for a beer!!
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I thought Alicante region was one of the better ones , looks like anyone interested will have to go to Torre for a beer!!
Don't think you'll be allowed to drive that far😉
Just to clarify the new rules;
UPDATE TO THE NEW RULES
If you're aged between 23 and 49, and a car owner you can exercise between 7.00am and 9.00am if you keep the engine running while listening to the car radio. Red cars will be prohibited on Tuesdays until June 1st any other colour cars can travel on some roads. Check local news for road regulations. Be aware that tolls on the AP-7 will be half price on alternate days but double on Sundays, but only after 11.30am.
Some bars will open on Monday, some may not. Dogs will be accepted as usual except Labradors and all other dogs over the age of 7½ years. Blind dogs will still be accepted but may need help ordering drinks. Old Peseta notes will be accepted on Thursdays but only in some locations, please check with your town hall on Mondays between 1.00pm and 2.00pm for details.
Supermarkets will be open 9am to 6pm on alternate days, 6am to 9pm on other days except Fridays when they will be open at 8.30am until 8.45am for people aged 53 – 94 after which they will close and re-open again at 9.55am. You must shop at your nearest supermarket unless you own a motorbike in which case you may shop at any supermarket less than 18.25km from your house except on Tuesdays when you may shop up to 18.75km from your house.
You can travel with more than one person in the car if your pets are strapped to the roof rack and wearing a mask. If you don’t have a pet you may use a person over 73 years of age, but only on Wednesday between 4.30pm and 6.15pm. You can have a takeaway delivered but you can't take away a takeaway unless it is a pizza with pineapple and then only on Saturdays between 5.30pm and 9.45pm.
Cyclists are now banned but this has been appealed and a decision was scheduled to be made in the Supreme court on the 25th of May. However as this is national holiday in Argentina a new date will be announced in due course.
All disability scooters have to be adapted to mow lawns or clean pavements, except for two seater scooters which may be used as taxis on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but not before 9.30am. Recycling bins will be closed on Thursdays unless they have a capacity of more than 6m3 in which case they will be closed on Fridays except for Friday 21 May when they will close the following Tuesday. Playparks will remain closed except for Mondays when playparks with less than 4 swings can open between 10am and 12.40pm when children under 9 years of age can use them accompanied by at least one great grandparent who must wear a hat, but not a fedora.
Regards all
John
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Perfectly understood John.
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Yes, the Spanish and Italians have complex laws at the best of times. We have family in Italy and you can only go into certain towns on certain days ina car if your number plate ends in whatever, then it's different rules at weekends!! 😀
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I thought Alicante region was one of the better ones , looks like anyone interested will have to go to Torre for a beer!!
Don't think you'll be allowed to drive that far😉
Just to clarify the new rules;
UPDATE TO THE NEW RULES
If you're aged between 23 and 49, and a car owner you can exercise between 7.00am and 9.00am if you keep the engine running while listening to the car radio. Red cars will be prohibited on Tuesdays until June 1st any other colour cars can travel on some roads. Check local news for road regulations. Be aware that tolls on the AP-7 will be half price on alternate days but double on Sundays, but only after 11.30am.
Some bars will open on Monday, some may not. Dogs will be accepted as usual except Labradors and all other dogs over the age of 7½ years. Blind dogs will still be accepted but may need help ordering drinks. Old Peseta notes will be accepted on Thursdays but only in some locations, please check with your town hall on Mondays between 1.00pm and 2.00pm for details.
Supermarkets will be open 9am to 6pm on alternate days, 6am to 9pm on other days except Fridays when they will be open at 8.30am until 8.45am for people aged 53 – 94 after which they will close and re-open again at 9.55am. You must shop at your nearest supermarket unless you own a motorbike in which case you may shop at any supermarket less than 18.25km from your house except on Tuesdays when you may shop up to 18.75km from your house.
You can travel with more than one person in the car if your pets are strapped to the roof rack and wearing a mask. If you don’t have a pet you may use a person over 73 years of age, but only on Wednesday between 4.30pm and 6.15pm. You can have a takeaway delivered but you can't take away a takeaway unless it is a pizza with pineapple and then only on Saturdays between 5.30pm and 9.45pm.
Cyclists are now banned but this has been appealed and a decision was scheduled to be made in the Supreme court on the 25th of May. However as this is national holiday in Argentina a new date will be announced in due course.
All disability scooters have to be adapted to mow lawns or clean pavements, except for two seater scooters which may be used as taxis on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but not before 9.30am. Recycling bins will be closed on Thursdays unless they have a capacity of more than 6m3 in which case they will be closed on Fridays except for Friday 21 May when they will close the following Tuesday. Playparks will remain closed except for Mondays when playparks with less than 4 swings can open between 10am and 12.40pm when children under 9 years of age can use them accompanied by at least one great grandparent who must wear a hat, but not a fedora.
Regards all
John
Ha ha glad you liked it John! 8)
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One final additional rule you can only visit sex workers between '12 + 1 pm cash only no refunds if you can't come !
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Anyone understand UK new quarantine rules?
Seems to say everyone coming into U.K. including returning residents will have to self quarantine for 14 days, unless you're from Ireland or France! Not sure why France as one of worst impacted countries, why not Norway or Germany?
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.....but its quarantine at home, how many people will follow that?
A friend returned home to Australia a few weeks ago....all on the flight from London were transferred on coaches with police escorts to various hotels in Sydney for two weeks strict quarantine.
He then flew home to Cairns and had to self isolate for a further 10 days.
Anyway, the folk trapped in GA can fly home via Paris and then they wont have to self isolate when they get home.....you couldnt make it up could you!!
Regards all
John
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This is Frances announcement
France’s vast tourism industry will remain largely shuttered for now, with borders staying closed to non-European Union visitors until at least June 15, said Interior Minister Castaner. Cross-border travel will remain the “exception”, he said.
Any travellers who do enter France from outside the EU’s open-border Schengen area – whether citizens or foreigners – will face a mandatory two-week quarantine upon arrival. Those entering from EU countries or the United Kingdom will be exempt, although Health Minister Olivier Véran has suggested that France reserves the right to impose specific restrictions “if the epidemic situation were to get out of control in one of the Schengen countries”.
Again not totally clear but assume you can go to France and then onto say Germany etc
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I don't think the FCO have changed their advice, so if anyone had the temerity to go swanning around Europe any travel insurance would be invalid.
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https://mol.im/a/8310475
Really surprising to say the least
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Just as Spain does this. Written by Simon Calder who I do tend to trust, although he is only as good as the information he is given.
https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/coronavirus-spain-travel-quarantine-flights-holiday-a9509661.html
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......so for a weeks holiday you'll need to take 5 weeks off work.....two weeks quarantine on entering Spain, a week socialy distancing, and two weeks self isolation when you get back home.....sounds just perfect to me!!
I reckon 2020 is written off.
https://spaintoday.news/2020/05/12/government-imposes-a-14-day-quarantine-on-everyone-entering-spain/?fbclid=IwAR0iDIEgzn3jAuqlgeKGWUeOMo5NKJP9KHgZOm57k07U2NLmhvnTejfYQWQ
Regards all
John
Sorry Blue and white stripes, we posted within seconds of each other
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So - I'm confused as others must be, regardless of the quarantine rule conundrum - is spain "open" again from Friday of this week ? I thought only people with residencia were allowed in ?
(just asking for a friend) 8)
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Apology accepted John (although I think yours was the better of the two articles).
Five weeks doing nothing/ social distancing as pointed out by John is pretty much the norm for me now anyway so no change there.
Also Ryanair took all the June flights off their website a couple of days ago but have now added a few flights from the 24th onwards with a complete service from 1st July onwards.
Personally I don't think anyone has a clue what's going to happen.
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So - I'm confused as others must be, regardless of the quarantine rule conundrum - is spain "open" again from Friday of this week ? I thought only people with residencia were allowed in ?
(just asking for a friend) 8)
I thought the same.
Mr Hancock has been making announcements this morning
BBC News - Foreign holiday season likely to be cancelled, says minister
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-52632976
Regards all
John
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According to el pais, the Spanish quarantine only lasts for nex t 2 weeks
https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-05-12/spain-to-introduce-14-day-quarantine-for-international-travelers.html
Very confusing, Michael oLeary was in Tv earlier, saying he expects EU to allow travel from July, regarding the UK quarantine he said well everyone will ignore that anyway so won't be a problem for holiday makers!!
He's probably got a valid point regarding brits sticking to 14 days quarantine!!!
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Does the 14 day Quarantine extend to the Islands or is it just the mainland?
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As they are not specifying - I would take it that its the Canaries and the Balearic islands as well
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https://mol.im/a/8313431
All has become clear as to why Ryanair is going to restart flights, thought it was strange!
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The sad thing Kevin is that they will probably be full.
The folk on them will be the type who think they are immune from Covid 19.
They'll go abroad, complain non stop that it's not the same as last year, completely ignore any instructions about social distancing and they will be an embarrassment to our country.
When they get back home they will ignore any rules re self isolation.
We've all shared flights with folk like this and been glad to get off the aeroplane and away from them.
Regards all
John
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O'Leary didn't become a billionaire by luck!
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I'm not sure people will fly John,if you have to self isolate at your arrival in Spain and then when you return home it won't be worth it, think it's just an excercise by O'Leary to avoid refunds. I've taken the attitude that holidaying this year is a write off and next year I will be driving to GA if France and Spain open up. We are living in interesting times.
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Just checked on our Governments COVID site at GOV.UK - which matches the data on the Spanish embassy site accurate today 13/05:
"Following further border restrictions, only Spanish citizens, those who are legally resident in Spain, frontier workers or those who can prove they need to enter Spain for essential reasons will be allowed to enter the country. Only green residency certificates will be accepted as proof of residency in Spain and British travellers who are not resident and/or not in possession of this certificate should not attempt to enter the country. Padron certificates, utility bills and property deeds will not be accepted by Spanish authorities as proof of residency."
I dont think MO'L will get away with laying on flights to a country that you can't disembark into.
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He's counting on passengers being sent back on arrival so he can charge them for altering their return flight dates.
Bert
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Wouldn't surprise me at all Bert.
I notice they've now taken all the Tuesday and Thursday flights off in July from BHX-ALC. We're seven weeks away from July and the rules are changing everyday. If my flights are not cancelled and I can get back into Spain I'm going.
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Ryanair's schedule is subject to two large conditions: “ to government restrictions on intra-EU flights being lifted, and effective public health measures being put in place at airports", hence my earlier comment.
I would not wish to be a passenger.
Regards all
John
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You have to hand it him he is a clever devious horrible bloke , who puts profit above all else . He will schedule planes over the summer and not pull them even if they are empty that way he will not have to refund as he will have fulfilled his part of contract . Even if you cannot realistically fly because of 4 weeks total isolation he will say that your flight is available and therefore if you don’t want to travel then it’s your loss. Brilliant and would not have expected anything else from Ryanair
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I've heard that renewals on Holiday Insurance are excluding Covid-19 as a valid claimable condition so think if you became seriously ill in Spain if you couldn't be treated under the EHIC agreement you could part with a lot of money for treatment. If airports start doing body temperature scans on people if you are suffering from the virus you would be turned away from the airport I should imagine.
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John
Could you let me have the source of those conditions please. Want to hang onto them for when he puts a plane on (to save his money) and I am not able to enter spain due to their restrictions
Ryanair's schedule is subject to two large conditions: “ to government restrictions on intra-EU flights being lifted, and effective public health measures being put in place at airports", hence my earlier comment.
I would not wish to be a passenger.
Regards all
John
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Here you go;
https://www.investegate.co.uk/ryanair-holdings-plc--rya-/rns/ryanair-to-restore-40--of-flights-from-1-july/202005120700025539M/
Regards all
John
PS If you need to enter quarantine in Spain thats not Ryanairs issue, thats your issue...quarantine may still exist when intra-EU flights are allowed.....as Boris says we have to rely on The Common Sense of the public.
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Beach life the whole thing is a way to avoid refunding cash . If you already have a ticket booked on a flight that is not cancelled by Ryan Air then you have the choice to travel and suffer whatever restrictions are in place at either Airport or not travel . But he keeps the flight on the choice is yours so it simple travel and suffer whatever or don’t but it will be at your loss not his . It’s actually another piece of corrupt genius by O’Leary
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EU countries are looking at borders & travel according to BBC. As we know U.K., France & Ireland have agreed reciprocal travel arrangements and more may follow. Spain today saying expect quarantine until 30th June so summer is a possibility.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-52644816
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Kevin’s
What route would you take to dive down, I’ve never driven but that’s what I was thinkOMG of doing
Channel tunnel / through France, possible stop over if hotels are open, any recommendations,
Thanks
Steve
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Hi Chris & Jackie.
Think its only going to apply to "Schengen" countries. Which obviously excludes the UK
EU countries are looking at borders & travel according to BBC. As we know U.K., France & Ireland have agreed reciprocal travel arrangements and more may follow. Spain today saying expect quarantine until 30th June so summer is a possibility.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-52644816
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Just had on if EU senior ladies on talking about borders/travel who said trying to coordinate, France, Germany, Austria & Switzerland just announced common travel policy. So nothing to stop U.K. Residents going to France and then onto other countries and vice versa!
ALso the head of tourism for Balearic Islands was on saying Spain quarantine will only last as long as state of emergency i.e. 23rd May ! however it's also been mentioned you will have to book slots at pool, gym , restaurant etc, seems a complete shambles everywhere!!
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No idea about routes Steve, I've always wanted to do it by car and go across the Pyrenees, I've had friends do it and they stayed at some interesting places on the way, i'll try and get info and let you know.
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We have done the trip a couple of times. Depends how much time you have. The cheapest route is channel tunnel down through France and into Spain but it’s a gruelling drive if you only have a couple of days to get there. We did it in two days but it was driving 10 hours a day. The easiest way is the Plymouth to Santander route then it’s a 6-7 hour drive to Alicante straight down towards Madrid and then Albacete then Alicante. This is what we are going to do next year we think.
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We do the drive about four times a year (with pets so it's a bit of a trolley dash). Leave Manchester early Sunday arrive here early PM Wednesday. Return; leave here early Thursday arrive Manchester late Saturday.
Used to stay in hotels but now use mostly Airbnb and costs around £550 each way using motorway/ toll roads all the way.
Route is Manchester to Folkestone, tunnel to Calais then Rouen, Bordeaux, Irun, Pamplona, Zaragoza, Valencia, Alicante. It's about 8 / 9 hours drive a day so not too bad if you set your mind to it.
If you pm me I can give you a lot more info than I'm able to give here. Routes, accommodation etc
Dave
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I'm probably a bit older than many of you but it's a bit of a gruelling start to your break. Unless you live fairly close to Dover, I would recommend using the western routes. It's a less arduous route through France and you can do it in two days from Caen/St Malo/Roscoff. I'm fortunate as I only live ten minutes from Portsmouth ferry port and don't have to hack down through the UK before I even get started. Now that I have a motorhome, I can meander down taking as long as I want, stopping when and where I want. At least I could when we are allowed out to play again.
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Quote
"We have done the trip a couple of times. Depends how much time you have. The cheapest route is channel tunnel down through France and into Spain but it’s a gruelling drive if you only have a couple of days to get there. We did it in two days but it was driving 10 hours a day. The easiest way is the Plymouth to Santander route then it’s a 6-7 hour drive to Alicante straight down towards Madrid and then Albacete then Alicante. This is what we are going to do next year we think."
I think your timing must be wrong. It is 550 miles and divide that by 6 and you get nearly 92 miles per hours. I expect with stopping for fuel you would have to maintain at least a 100 mph all the way. Having done this route many times I would allow 10 hours for the journey.
Derek
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Chris and Jackie, the reason Spanish government say measures last during the state of emergency ( and the state of emergency lasts until 24 May ) is because the two are legally linked, they cant have the measures without it being a state of emergency, thats why every couple of weeks they have another meeting to agree another date, doesn't mean the state of emergency ends on that date, just when the next meeting to discuss how and when and if to extend it happens.
I would say its far from a shambles here and is very well organised
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Just for interest - (I have shortened the link)
https://tinyurl.com/y9ox5y4l
Use translate on your browser if it doesnt automatically open
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Chris and Jackie, the reason Spanish government say measures last during the state of emergency ( and the state of emergency lasts until 24 May ) is because the two are legally linked, they cant have the measures without it being a state of emergency, thats why every couple of weeks they have another meeting to agree another date, doesn't mean the state of emergency ends on that date, just when the next meeting to discuss how and when and if to extend it happens.
I would say its far from a shambles here and is very well organised
You must appreciate that if it is not organized by the British it must always be a shambles.
Derek
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Wondered what this was coming past the house yesterday morning - "bleaching the streets" !!! :-X
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U.K. Have the day said no exemptions for French, apparently some confusion!!!
Whatever the quarantine rules are across Europe they are not coordinated!
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Hi Derek, yes I have got a bit muddied there. The last time we travelled by car we travelled from Roscoff down to Alicante and we did the Roscoff to San Sebastián in a day and stayed overnight then I Denver leaving San Sebastián at 8am the next morning and we arrived in Alicante at 4pm. Santander is further West. So would take 10 hours as you correctly say. It’s a great trip if you have the time to do it
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Seems Italy are opening borders 3/06 inline with other European countries as U.K. Still has unrestricted travel rights in EU for 2020 gives some hope for tourism if U.K. Allow travel.
https://www.dw.com/en/italy-to-allow-unrestricted-travel-starting-june-3/a-53461107
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....... possibly not what you want to read
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/uk-tourists-travel-spain-coronavirus-lockdown-a9517196.html
Regards all
John
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I guess Spain and other poorer countries are hoping Germany, Netherlands etc will back this fund they want to tap to rebuild economy but Germany doesn't seem to keen on bailing out more lame ducks like Spain, Greece & Italy and of course why should they !
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At least the EU won't need to bail out the lame duck UK!
Bert
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The problem is Italy, Spain, Greece & some others need tourism as it's a massive part of GDP without tourists they need to borrow massive sums. Without German & Netherlands & other N. European countries backing the so called corona bonds they won't be able to borrow because no one will lend them any money, German voters don't want to bail out the inefficient sometimes corrupt S. European countries.
So basically Spain etc are scuppered without Germany or tourists or both. UK on the other hand can fairly easily sell gilts etc to raise funds but Boris wants as many people back working ASAP so they can keep bill down.
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Looks like U.K. Backtracking on quarantine rules and transport secretary stated they are considering allowing travel between countries with lower infection rates so that's most of EU at present, whether there's some sort of reciprocal deal going to be announced soon, who knows !!
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Greece has just announced they will waive their 14 day self isolation rule for Brits, so a country with a very low infection rate is going to invite people in from a high infection rate country, they must be mad.
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From todays El Pais
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Portugal have also offered air bridge to Brits, looks like travel will be possible from mid June depending on what UK propose on quarantine, RyanAir will be happy as no cancellations etc.
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https://www.costa-news.com/costa-blanca-news/valencia-region-will-not-request-phase-two-status-next-monday/
Valencia region will not request phase two status next Monday
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https://mol.im/a/8337277
This was announced this morning.
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If the daily Mail is right which quite often it isn't that will be the end of any travel then, personally I am not planning to go until September but tourist establishments will not recover from this blow across Southern Europe.
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According to ITV news this evening, Greece is opening up for tourists and have produced a list of countries who can fly in.................UK is not on that list according to news reader Mary Nightingale.
BW
Maricia
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On Monday, 11 member states - Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain - agreed to a set of rules aimed at allowing cross-border travel while minimising the risk of Covid-19 infections.
above is the list who have agreed reciprocal travel arrangements as you say U.K. Not taking part.
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You may well be able to fly to Greece but will be confined to your house for two weeks when you return to the UK, not a feasible scenario for working people.
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Ryanair have today cancelled our flight Alicante to East Midlands on 29th July so I have taken them up on their option they offered of a full refund for our flight East Midlands on 5th July and the return on 29th July. not planning on holding my breath, still waiting for refund for cancelled flights in April
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Hi Tony.
I had a similar email today cancelling my July 8th - July 15th flight. Before I hit the refund button and put myself in the queue for a payback I checked the itinerary. As think you eluded to it was only the return flight that had been cancelled. A quick check revealed that they were still flying on the 15th but the cancelled flight was just the late afternoon one.
So... I did a date change (for free nothing more to pay) on the one cancelled leg, picking a day when the pm flight was on and it went through fine.
I think Ryanair are consolidating their flights where there was two in one day there is now one. Hence I got the "trip cancelled" email.
Bit long winded sorry - and the whole lot might get canned if we dont improve on our Covid performace in the UK.
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Foreign Office advice is still no non-essential travel so none of your travel insurance will cover you for anything. Mind you, the withdrawal symptoms of a bit of continental culture is become so acute, it could almost be called essential travel now.
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Ryanair cancelled our outward flight on the 23rd of July, but as others have said I think they are consolidating flights to one per day, I have applied for a refund, I won't hold my breath, then booked on an earlier flight, overall saving of £160.00 if we fly, if not another claim will go in.
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I had flights booked with Ryanair on 06/07 -17/07 which they have cancelled. However I can still book flights on their website on the same days only the times have changed. I got as far as 'pay now' on their website to check this out. It appears in my case they have told me my flights were cancelled rather than advise me of a time change.
Anyway I have now booked flights with Jet2 which go 22/06 - 05/07 for a similar amount. Let's see what happens with these.
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As previously stated we have numerous Ryanair flights over the year, i think the coming weeks and months will be interesting. Whilst the airlines will resume flying to keep afloat, theyre very reliant on countries letting them land, but at what health cost. I havnt asked my spanish neighbours in GA but i cant see that they will want me and thousands of others potentially bringing the virus with us. Spain has paid a high price so far.
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I’m with you Wilson I’m not expecting to go to GA until at least November at the moment . If that changes great but I can’t see it yet
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Sounds like Priti Patel will put final touches to banning travel and possibly finish many travel companies off when she announces quarantine rules later today.
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Will be returning from GA to UK in next couple of weeks, by car. Locked up since March 15th.
Do I wait for the U-Turn or do I apply for my Romanian fruit pickers badge now.
What a shambles.
Dave
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Anyone returning to U.K. Will now have 14 days quarantine from 8th June so get back quick if you're coming home!
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Spain have announced tourists can return to Spain from July as reported in el pais & BBC news. Not sure exact date in July or whether British will be allowed to travel by then.
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Yes here it is;
Full story here
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/23/spain-to-reopen-to-overseas-tourists-from-july
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Not sure if it’s worth rushing back to Spain until later in the year. With still many restrictions in place will be difficult to get a place on the beach or a place outside a restaurant. Will just be one big queue when the Spanish are on holiday in August. Are swimming pools planning on opening soon on the urbanization’s does anyone know ?
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Im not sure if the news on my tv is specific to me, but the daily facts both in the uk and spain whilst improving does not mean the pandemic is over. There has been no major advance in treatment, a vaccine is possible down the line. I understand people talking up the situation, from Oleary simplifying a flight with wear a mask, how on earth can you from initially parking your car through check in, security, departure lounge, toilets, buses at both ends, border control, baggage retrieval, car hire bus or taxi. The tourist industry says its all back to a new normal. Now im no risk averse snowflake from the worried well department but 3 months ago we were panic buying and putting tape on the windows like the blitz, now were organising a curry in masa square. Maybe its me but i think its bonkers just bonkers, funnily enough thats what Oleary said but in another context.
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Not sure if it’s worth rushing back to Spain until later in the year. With still many restrictions in place will be difficult to get a place on the beach or a place outside a restaurant. Will just be one big queue when the Spanish are on holiday in August. Are swimming pools planning on opening soon on the urbanization’s does anyone know ?
The pools on urbanisations are opening up in June but not sure how it will work, a friend sent us some of the rules like you must book a time, social distancing in pools etc. NOt sure how young kids are expected to do this, also on Costa del Sol they are talking about beach visits limited to 4 hours either morning or afternoon as some have said sounds like chaos!
With Italy, Spain etc opening borders I would assume RyanAir will fly and will say it's not our concern if you have to isolate in UK etc, flights are operating and therefore no refunds due!!
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https://mol.im/a/8352215
Nice to be popular, priority what ?
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Not sure if it’s worth rushing back to Spain until later in the year. With still many restrictions in place will be difficult to get a place on the beach or a place outside a restaurant. Will just be one big queue when the Spanish are on holiday in August. Are swimming pools planning on opening soon on the urbanization’s does anyone know ?
The pools on urbanisations are opening up in June but not sure how it will work, a friend sent us some of the rules like you must book a time, social distancing in pools etc. NOt sure how young kids are expected to do this, also on Costa del Sol they are talking about beach visits limited to 4 hours either morning or afternoon as some have said sounds like chaos!
With Italy, Spain etc opening borders I would assume RyanAir will fly and will say it's not our concern if you have to isolate in UK etc, flights are operating and therefore no refunds due!!
Nothing at all will ever work with negativity. They are trying to save lives and whilst I do appreciate that the Spanish can never manage as well as us Brits we should at least support them in trying.
Derek
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Just a second thought on how badly the Spanish are controlling the pandemic their R rate is .2 and here in the UK we have a rate of between .7 and 1.
I think they have got to grips with the control very well after a bad start if you use our performance as a comparison.
Derek
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100% with you there Derek in the comparison between Spain and the UK. I hope your good lady is feeling a lot better.
I can see over the coming days, weeks and months this unlocking the lockdown turning into another Brexit debate, heaven forbid with polarised views on both sides.
Can I ask that on the forum we follow the rules and keep it "clean"
Regards all
John
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The difference this time John whilst the sides will be polarised, it will be a matter of choice for us all. I choose the low risk approach, others take the increased risk path as long as if and when they catch something they dont demand the services of the nhs then i wont mind in the slightest.
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I’m with you Wilson I’m playing the long game here I don’t expect to visit Spain until back end of November at the earliest . To me it’s just not worth the risk I know other have their own agenda but I’m not doing 4 weeks quarantine for a weeks holiday especially to take an unnecessary risk. If and when life returns to normal I’m happy to go but not in the short term on a potentially flying germ trap .
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I'm not going to Spain this summer, just not worth it, might drive down late September or even October, will be less people about and less chance of picking up the virus. I can understand the Spanish tourism authority wanting us Brits back though, I think we have a good relationship with Spain long may it last
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100% with you there Derek in the comparison between Spain and the UK. I hope your good lady is feeling a lot better.
I can see over the coming days, weeks and months this unlocking the lockdown turning into another Brexit debate, heaven forbid with polarised views on both sides.
Can I ask that on the forum we follow the rules and keep it "clean"
Regards all
John
Hi John. Yes she is improving by the day. The Doctor said it would take 3 to 4 weeks rest and it looks like the Doctor knew her stuff. To say she was sick when they took her away in that ambulance was an understatement but again the NHS provided the expertise and care in very difficult times and she is now well on the way to being back to normal. I know the strains on the NHS vary from one area to another but the Salisbury hospital could not be run any better. On the lockdown it certainly looks like things are moving now and July looks like the target date for a trip to GA. Derek
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So glad to hear your other half is on the mend, but have to say I´d avoid the risks of any international travel in July. There are too many idiots out there.
Bert
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The FCO haven't yet changed their "No non-essential foreign travel" advice. That, surely, is key to any decision.
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Just for information on Spain stopping quarantine from 1/07 but as Tony says unless FCO change advice it makes no difference.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-52800611
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........is that an open door from all countries into Spain without quarantine....or countries that Spain has deemed to handle the crisis well and it's citizens be classed as low risk?
Regards all
John
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At last we can enjoy a meal at bars, and restaurants these pics taken yesterday @ G A and Santa Pola
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Looks good Ian, can't enjoy a pint over here yet!
Are you allowed on beaches yet or in pools?
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Not sure about the beach or pool, we only use the bars ! !
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Mysteriously the beach isn't open although Alicante and Santa Pola beaches are albeit only for exercise.
The Clot is also still closed, maybe an Elche thing.
Urb pools also still closed whilst in phase 1. I think all the admin are struggling with how to maintain distancing with the pool open. Various scenarios being discussed.
Should be clearer when (if) Valencia enters phase 2 next Monday.
I won't be here to see it because thanks to Priti Awful and the Fat Controller I am coming home a month before I intended.
Dave
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The main issue with reopening anything whether a bar or a beach is the numbers. We were discussing with friends about going to GA in summer hols for the 6 weeks as normal. The whole area is usually rammed during the holiday period, but if there are number restrictions which are needed to the pool, beach, your favourite bar etc is it really practical. Now if all visitors think this, then this will ensure the resident locals can enjoy all that ga has to offer.
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'I'm coming home a month before I intended' - you'll need to print off one of these to be able to go where you like.
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Torrevieja hospital no longer has any coronavirus patients being treated in the intensive care department, according hospital manger Eva Baró.
Sra Baró noted today that no new coronavirus patients have been admitted to the hospital since May 5.
Who was knocking the way the Spanish were dealing with Coronavirus?
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Elche have announced this afternoon the re-opening of the Carabassi beach as from tomorrow for walking ONLY - no swimming etc, and still with Phase 1 time slots, but it is a start!
https://www.facebook.com/ayuntamientoelche/videos/193046861846915/
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Great news AHV !
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Just a day too late for me but good news for the remainers. The council have been working on the beach all week, cleaning up and installing the foot washes at the beach end of the boardwalks so normality returning slowly. No sign of any beach bars but who knows.
All bars still very quiet as there are so few customers.
Valencia into phase 2 on Monday.
I'll be in Manchester doing a Dominic providing I have all the correct documents to cross Spain and transit France. With a bit of luck I'll be turned around at Valencia and have to come back.
Dave
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Enjoying a meal & drink @ vista Bella they are doing a special menu of day Mon ,- Fri 10 euro
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Safe trip back - you'll have to let us know how it was going through the borders and any checks that you were exposed to as you went through the different provinces in Spain
Just a day too late for me but good news for the remainers. The council have been working on the beach all week, cleaning up and installing the foot washes at the beach end of the boardwalks so normality returning slowly. No sign of any beach bars but who knows.
All bars still very quiet as there are so few customers.
Valencia into phase 2 on Monday.
I'll be in Manchester doing a Dominic providing I have all the correct documents to cross Spain and transit France. With a bit of luck I'll be turned around at Valencia and have to come back.
Dave
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Hi Beachlife,
Left GA this morning and drove to just north of Pamplona via Valencia, Teruel and Zaragoza. No checks anywhere. Lots of messages on overhead gantries reminding of the need for correct justification for travel but that was it.
Big heavily armed Civil Guard presence at toll off AP68 onto A15 but waved us through, obviously looking for bigger fish.
Big test tomorrow at the border but hopefully got everything I need.
Dave
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Hi Dave
Where are you staying overnight I assumed most places are closed up
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Used to love that drive up north that way, far better than the Albacete Madrid route, the scenery is so much better. I dont think we ever drove that way without seeing at least 40 or 50 eagles soaring on the thermals....amazing sight. A slight detour was often made to go round the Logrono area to buy a few cases of the superb Rioja.
Enjoy the journey Dave.
Regards all
John
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Hi all,
Where did I start..........at the beginning.
Last night we stayed at the El Toro hotel in Berrioplano, north Pamplona (J97 A15), it fits the requirements of within fuel tank range, close to motorway with nearby off motorway fuel. The Basque Country is in phase two so hotels can be open at 50% capacity although if there was anyone else there last night I didn't see them.
This morning we drove up the A15 to the border, this route with minimal tolls or the nearby N121A, no tolls, are both stunning drives in my favourite part of Spain; and yes John we saw your eagles, masses of them riding the thermals.
The only police we have seen since leaving GA were the French at the border, our documents were correct and into France we went.
Tonight we are at an Airbnb, Le Bordage A28 J24 near Parigné-l'Évêque (fuel at nearby SuperU), Le Mans. If anyone is driving this way I would recommend it wholeheartedly, it's absolutely stunning and a steal at £60 a night. As I understand it French hotels haven't had to close but I think some have due to lack of business.
So far it's been a very easy drive with mainly goods vehicles on the road, very little private traffic; even Bordeaux was quiet at midday.
Last day tomorrow, 4 hours to Coquelles and 5 to Manchester. Home for tea.
Dave
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We've driven to Le Mans and back 3 times from GA and have always had 3 overnight stops each way taking time to explore France and Spain on the way. We've crossed the Pyrenees via San Sebastian, Perpignan and Andorra and it's a superb journey up through France whichever way you go. We've done Birmingham to Le Mans 16 times but have never done the complete drive from Birmingham - GA in the same trip
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Bit of a petrol head Blue and white stripes :) I'm a life long member of the club.
A few years one of my old bosses invited us to stay at his place in Sotogrande in Southern Spain fora few days, absolutely gorgeous area with magnificent detached villas. My old boss was also a bit if a petrol head so he invited his next door neighbour round for a BBQ lunch and an afternoon on boys chatting cars.
His next door neighbour was non other than John Fitzpatrick......what an afternoon.
Regards all
John
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DaveG...thanks for that. We've been looking at driving routes and that one seems a good one.
How much have you paid for tolls etc in total?
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I'm confused.com.
Are we about to go into phase 2 or not?
At first I read that the whole of the Valencia region was to move into 2nd phase,
and then I read that it was staying in phase 1 by its own request.
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From El Pais:
70% of Spain will be in Phase 2 of coronavirus deescalation plan by Monday, government announces
The entire region of Valencia will enter this stage.
Bert
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According to n332 Facebook page, beaches in Alicante & Elche regions will open tomorrow which means Carabassi beach and assume Santa Pola beaches will be open.
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✅ Reopening of Beaches in Santa Pola COVID-19
Santa Pola will reopen its beaches in mid-June when all citizen safety criteria can be guaranteed:
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The Carabassi beach has been open for walking only, but as of tomorrow opens fully as it comes under Elche. Santa Pola will open on 15th June.
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https://mol.im/a/8373929
Seems us Brits won't be allowed to travel to Spain for the foreseeable future.
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Hi RachUK, toll charges for that route are around €130, you can reduce them if you're not in a hurry and avoid the toll roads. The French side is around €100 of the total, all the tolls on the Spanish side are north of Zaragoza, some can be avoided by using the N121A and not the A15 from Irun to Pamplona.
Left Le Mans today at 0715 and was in Manchester at 1630. Best ever run, sunny and warm all the way from GA and not a police check anywhere except crossing into France. Busier than I expected in UK though and I don't know if it's me but is motorway lane discipline getting much worse, middle lane rolling roadblocks everywhere.
Dave
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UK Motorways have always been beset by CLODS
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Hi RachUK, toll charges for that route are around €130, you can reduce them if you're not in a hurry and avoid the toll roads. The French side is around €100 of the total, all the tolls on the Spanish side are north of Zaragoza, some can be avoided by using the N121A and not the A15 from Irun to Pamplona.
Left Le Mans today at 0715 and was in Manchester at 1630. Best ever run, sunny and warm all the way from GA and not a police check anywhere except crossing into France. Busier than I expected in UK though and I don't know if it's me but is motorway lane discipline getting much worse, middle lane rolling roadblocks everywhere.
Dave
Thanks Dave...very helpful :)
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https://mol.im/a/8373929
Seems us Brits won't be allowed to travel to Spain for the foreseeable future.
The irony will be that the great and the good and not just politicians and academics who have presided over this complete debacle in the uk, will no doubt be able to leave the country for essential travel to holiday destinations to fact find and share practises. The fact of taking the family along will be just a mere coincidence of course. Nothing to see here mlud.
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I've just read....
Just shows what a proper lock down delivers, not the sham we've had here in the UK.
Regards all
John
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Interesting John but the population of Spain is 47 million against 67 million in UK so as a proportion of population it is much higher in Spain than the Uk . The UK excess death rate is 59000 or 891 per million Spain is 921 per million . So who knows who has got the lockdown right . What I can’t understand is why countries like Germany and many in Africa have not had as big an epidemic as we have . The real concern is now in South America where it is rife in Brazil and Mexico
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Hi Spurs, the experts kept on telling us we were two weeks behind Spain......if we record 35 or less deaths in the 7 days to the 15th June I will be over the moon....we'll be no where near that figure.
Regards all
John
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Hi John yes it’s hard to know which stat is an accurate indicator but hopefully we are in the right road now and at least it’s getting less daily now . I’m still thinking it will be Oct / November before I’ll be ready to travel
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Whilst population density and the age demographic influence the figures, Germany which is not so dissimilar to the UK has lower figure by a substantial margin. We have not, nor are we IMHO currently handling it well.
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I think it's the care home figures in U.K. And also Spain which has had a significant impact on deaths figures , maybe they have a lot better system in Germany for care homes but it's certainly been a disaster in UK .
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I have sat through the Spanish lock down from March 16th to leaving Spain last Friday; whether or not you agreed with the strictness of the lock down you always knew what the rules were at any given time and the likely consequences of not following the rules.
I have been in the UK since Sunday, driving up from Folkestone was like an ordinary Sunday after driving from GA to Calais on almost deserted roads. Here at home the lock down doesn't exist except for those who wish to observe it with no sanction for those that don't.
That the UK isn't handling it well is an understatement - it's a joke.
Dave
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What was the cost of your journey? I'm interested because I plan to do it myself later this year.
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I don't think the lockdown in the UK is a joke the town and roads where I live have been deserted and its normally a busy area, people here are good at social distancing and observing the rules.
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Hi Beachlife, not sure of this exact journey cost yet as I'm still waiting for some of the credit card charges to work through into £'s. I would say it's not far off the average of the last four trips which is £550 one way. There are so many variables though; e.g. we have to pay extra on the eurotunnel for pets, outbound we do three stops, inbound only two so that saves one overnight cost, we use tolls all the way for speed but that cost can be reduced (especially in France) by using the slower A roads but that may mean more stops or longer days. Also the exchange rate plays a part. I can recommend a few Airbnb's if your interested.
Kevin, here in Manchester in comparison to Spain the lock down doesn't exist, honestly. Very little distancing, and for one who is used to wearing a mask and gloves in a supermarket in Spain it's a surprise here as the instruction is only "advice" very few are doing it. In Tesco there is a one way system that's totally ignored and if you linger looking at something someone will push in front to reach what they want. Very badly managed so far, at least in this neck of the woods.
Dave
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Thanks Dave G. I estimated about £1000 - £1100 return from Birmingham with two stops each way although we'll probably do three so you backed up my thoughts.
I found these websites useful for tolls
https://www.autoroutes.fr/index.htm
https://www.sixt.co.uk/toll-roads/europe/spain/
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Has anyone gone from one of ports direct to Spain, cutting out the drive through France? If so which ports do the ferries go from/to and any advice as may do later in the year depending on borders etc
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Brittany Ferrys do.
One of our favourites time wise left Portsmouth on a Sunday at about 7.00pm, gave you plenty of time to get down there, and docked in Santander on Tuesday morning at about 7.30am.....you then had a full day to travel down to GA, apart from busy traffic in Santander or around Valancia or Madrid whichever route you take the roads are a revelation, lovely and smooth and very quiet.
Regards all
John
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Plymouth - Santander or Portsmouth - Bilbao/Santander. Bilbao knocks about 40-50 miles off the trip to GA. From S Wales or anywhere from Bristol westwards, Plymouth would be your probable choice. Anywhere else in the UK, then Portsmouth is the obvious departure port. Even if driving through France, Portsmouth is often a better choice than Dover as it avoids the tedious hack round Paris.
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The other good thing about Plymouth to Santander is the journey time which is only 20 hours.
Derek
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Hi Beachlife, I would say your estimates are pretty much spot on. If you are contemplating the eurotunnel then the hardest part of the journey is getting to Dover.
Rather than hacking round Paris I head south to Rouen and then straight down through Le Mans / Tours / Poitiers to Bordeaux and down to the border at Irun in Spain. On the whole route to GA from Calais Rouen is the only part where you have to go off motorway and traverse the town; very easy though.
A long drive and a bit tedious but very direct; the bit from Bordeaux to the border is very busy in the school holidays with people heading to Arcachon, Bayonne and Biarritz.
I have some fairly detailed directions that I have honed over time that are a good backup to a failed satnav if you want a copy.
Dave
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I drive a EV (iPace) and I did some research on Charger availability rules out a drive down in that. Its fine in France but Spain hasnt given me much of a chance, even with good range there isnt much between Valencia (City) and Alicante - and Alicante only has 3.2KW chargers in the Marina carpark which will take forever, certainly nothing local
Going to wait until I'm safe on the plane !
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Glue some solar panels to your roof. ;)
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https://mol.im/a/8422103
Spain opens to Brits from the 21st June
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The problem comes after visiting Spain with Brits returning to the UK having to enter quarantine for 14 days.
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I won't be going to Spain until the autumn at the earliest if at all, just don't think it's worth it. I can understand the Spanish wanting us there as apparently we do spend money but I will wait until the crowds have gone home.
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Good to go from 21st June (UK travel into Spain) - no flights mind you for another 10 days after that
UPDATED - Spain are saying that unless UK lifts quarantine period there is likely to be a reciprocal action in Spain as well (14 days) - Bluff ?
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Probably a bluff, I do reckon the Costas are desperate for Brit spenders.
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As far as Brit residents are concerned, until the FCO changes the "essential travel only" advice, any travel insurance will be invalid and you will be relying solely on your EHIC.
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Ryanair not hanging about !!
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Spain have confirmed British will not have to quarantine, looks likely that U.K. Will reciprocate on 29/06.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-53122825
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Common sense should prevail
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El nuevo normal is in place !
4 hours max !!
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If anyone wants the "locator form" that Spain requires for you fill in before landing - I have attached one below
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Hi
Surely this is not the up to date form. The Spanish government announced that there is no requirement for persons travelling from the UK to quarantine with effect from the 21st June (yesterday) yet this form refers to the need to do such.
Derek
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I think it’s a locator for so they can contact you if you have been in contact with a confirmed case on the plane etc . Then as here in uk you will isolate for 14 days
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I get that Derek - but its the most upto date one there is. They may well not need the quarantine part adhered to (in fact as you rightly say Spain doesnt need it) But I think they are published generically not be country
Hi
Surely this is not the up to date form. The Spanish government announced that there is no requirement for persons travelling from the UK to quarantine with effect from the 21st June (yesterday) yet this form refers to the need to do such.
Derek
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Great news our community pool has reopened, oh bad news some selfish dimwit has used it as toilet and left the contents floating around, now the pool is shut again for health reasons. What is going on in some peoples head, the idiots that live amongst us just never cease to amaze me.
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what pleasure did that disgusting person get out of that
At least you can not blame a drunken holiday maker for that
mushte
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https://mol.im/a/8454121
Is it that quiet then ? Any local feedback ?
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A Red day today.....From Aranales to Santa Pola the beaches were packed. Reduced car parking on the hillside.
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Today's euro news
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Beach today at Urbanova was busy, but plenty of space still and easy social distancing!
Local Police on dune buggies ensuring people were keeping 6m back from the shoreline, instructions which people followed immediately. 8)
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Does anyone have any information on wearing face masks when in Spain. We are due to fly out on the 10th and wanted to know for certain. Heard way to many different things regarding the subject.
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You have to wear one in any shop or other closed place. Plus anywhere you cannot guarantee a space of two meters between you and any other people... whether those people have flown around during a pandemic or not.
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GA veteran do you have to wear one in a bar or restaurant?
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gaveteran Many thanks.
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GA veteran do you have to wear one in a bar or restaurant?
A mate in GA, posted this on Facebook the other day Spurs;
A polite reminder to anyone travelling into Spain, in the coming days/weeks, please be aware you MUST carry a mask at ALL times. It’s NOT a choice.
This will continue until a Vaccine is available. While sitting at a table in a bar or restaurant this does not apply, BUT leaving your seat for any reason requires you to have a mask with you.
The Royal Decree revised on 20 June states it is OBLIGATORY to carry a mask with you at all times, and must be worn if a social distance of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained.
The police can and will fine you on the spot!
Please be careful and respectful.
Hope this helps
Regards all
John
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Hi John,
I`ve just joined the forum but have had a house in GA for over 16 years. We are due out on the 4th August (fingers crossed) and I`m just trying to understand the whole mask thing. For example, if we go for dinner to a restaurant and during dinner we have to get up from our seat to say visit the men`s room do i have to put my mask on? What if we are simply walking around say the GA centre? Hope you can help?
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I suppose Rob, it might be easier to understand less in terms of the law, and more in terms of personal ethics and responsibility.
When you get up from a table to walk to the toilet - normally, in any bar or restaurant - do you imagine you would walk past multiple other people and breath on/near them? Do you you agree that when you get to the bathroom it is going to be a fairly small place, and might very well have other people in it, and even if it hasn't that someone else might come in and you'd then breathe on them? Then repeat all that on the way back.
This isn't rocket science. You should want to wear a mask, you should very much want for people around you to wear one. Especially, if like you, they've arrived from another country with much high infection rates. Personally I think it's your ethical responsibility to stay put until there's a treatment, but if you can't/won't then for pity's sake do your 100% best to not give the virus which you stand a higher than average chance of catching on the plane to us folks here! Why don't you do as I do (even though I've been basically in confinement for months) and put a mask on at all times when you are outdoors, unless sitting safely away from anyone else and putting some food in your mouth. Simple :)
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Hi John,
I`ve just joined the forum but have had a house in GA for over 16 years. We are due out on the 4th August (fingers crossed) and I`m just trying to understand the whole mask thing. For example, if we go for dinner to a restaurant and during dinner we have to get up from our seat to say visit the men`s room do i have to put my mask on? What if we are simply walking around say the GA centre? Hope you can help?
Welcome to this friendly forum!!!
See here;
https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/72676217_3003884619729968_2159038987814654748_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=ca434c&_nc_ohc=7xsXojZru44AX-AJsqh&_nc_ht=scontent-lht6-1.xx&oh=1328bc1b3cd88bb602523e4fdb244c8f&oe=5F1DE9DB
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100% with you gaveteran in your earlier reply.
A friend arrived back in GA a couple of days ago, he's just written to me telling me what life is like;
Hi John, I haven’t been around much locally. I was in Rincon de Santi in Arenales. I sat inside. They place the people at 1,5 meter away from each other and all the staff wears high standard face masks. You’re expected to do the same until you sit at a “safe social distance” which is the case.
I ate at the marina in Santa Pola but sat outside. So for me no mask but all the staff again wearing high standard masks. And they were doing their utmost to keep the social distance rules under control. The fancy fair across la Piedra was only halve installed just yesterday. When I went to check on the carabassi, there was no Blue Monkey or beds to be rented. Maybe they’d will also install last minute like the fancy fair but I will need to ask my upstairs neighbor as she is a worker at the Blue Monkey for years.
Supermarkets :
When I arrived it was a bank holiday for San Juan. That meant by the time I was at the shops too late and only Lidl was open. I never go there but I had no choice but mouth mask is mandatory in all shops and they foresee hand gel dispensers at the door and high standard gloves.
The day after Mercadona : the same like Lidl only the gloves are the very cheap ones which you usually find at the fruits and veggies or bakery.
I checked into consum as well. Mouth mask mandotory, hand gel dispensers but gloves not mandatory.
I went to get a pizza at cocoas. Since there was space at the terrace I ate it there. All staff wearing disposable mouth masks, on the terrace I didn’t need to put anything on but when I went in to pay by card I had to put on my mouth mask.
Overall in arenales and Santa Pola it is very hard to find a parking place so it is very busy. Especially today in Santa Pola so businesses attract people and Gran playa was crowded but looking at it from a distance all safe.
Here in Gran Alacant the parking at supermarkets are fully loaded. On the terraces I have seen wasn’t too much crowd.
( I've "redacted" this part...apologies if it doesn't "flow")
Then I will know how works there but the general rule is mouth mask once you don’t respect the 1,5 m social distance (so basically when you get of your chair) but no face mask when sat at a safe distance and staff wearing masks continuously.
Cheers
Regards all
John
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Just to add, I wish the UK would adopt the same procedures as Spain has, I for one would feel much safer and have far more respect for our Government.
Regards all
John
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A very interesting article about the benefits of masks https://www.lasprovincias.es/comunitat/experimento-mascarillas-eficacia-20200629112517-nt.html
It is in Spanish, but if that's a problem, there is also an option to use Google! 8)
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.....as we all saw on the news yesterday Leicester is in lockdown, so folk in Leicester should be a staying at home.
Let's say a family from Leicester think sod that and next Monday rock up at East Midlands Airport for the Ryanair flight to Alicante....will they be stopped from boarding the flight?
I'm not asking for a friend by the way, it's a genuine question...because if they are allowed to board the flight it makes a mockery of everything that is being done to stop the spread of this pandemic.
Regards all
John
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I wouldn't be too optimistic John, as far as I can see the UK in general "makes a mockery of everything that is being done to stop the spread of this pandemic". You only have to read to comments on here to be honest. The people that are going to come and visit us here this Summer couldn't give a monkey's, they just want to know what the minimum requirement for not getting fined is going to be while they sit, packed like sardines for all they care, in the sun.
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Bang on John and Gaveteran.We were given the chance to show that we could behave responsibly and look what happened.A little bit of sunshine and the beaches are packed,we can't behave .What harm would another month in lockdown have done? People had got used to the idea but try and reinforce it back on again. No chance!
I'm desperate to get out for a month or so but not yet ,I don't fancy a two and half hour flight in a mask and chaotic airports either side.Ill hang on until October
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Peter who is this we? You certainly do not speak for me or the majority of Brits I am sure. The vast majority have not gone to the beach and are doing their best not to catch the virus. Yes it is great that people can be paid to stay at home and any fool, including the UK government, can give it way but the economy does need to restart before too many of the lazy forget how to work.
Derek
"and the beaches are packed,we can't behave"
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Just to make it easier for you to understand Derek,change We to You.
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I agree with Derek. Where I live in the UK I reckon 95+% are respecting the rules regarding lock down and social distancing. Don't judge all the UK on the tossers who go to the beach, have illegal raves, attend protest marches or celebrate their team winning the league.
I and everyone I know have stuck to the rules.
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Perhaps we can hope for natural selection to improve the gene pool. ;)
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About trying to keep safe.
I am going to Gran Alacant soon and rather than flying, which I think carries a higher risk of transmission, I am riding from my home in North Dorset to Newhaven in order to catch a ferry to Dieppe. The ferry leaves at 9.00am so it will mean leaving home about 4.45am. I have booked a cabin both ways purely to isolate from others passengers (the crossing only takes 4 hours so a cabin is not normally necessary). I ride from Dieppe to Grand Alacant taking two night stops where I am actually staying in apartment type accommodation where there is a microwave so that I can cook my own food. This is not to save money as it is more expensive but again to avoid contact with other travellers etc. Obviously space on a motorbike is limited so very careful planning has taken place to fit food and clothes in. I am even taking my own sleeping bag, pillow and towels in case I catch anything from the linen at the places that I am staying at. A supply of face masks are at the ready. I think the trip is going to cost me about £700,00 compared with about £50.00 on Ryanair. This I think contrasts a little from the thought that all Brits (which is my nationality) are reckless.
Some would suggest that even going is reckless but I think we do need to move to a new way of life outside lock-down.
Derek
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Hope you wear your mask On your bike mate
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I asked the requirements for a mask so i can go about daily life in GA without getting anything wrong and abide by the regulation in place. Nothing to do with not getting fined it’s called finding out and making sure I’m doing what’s asked.
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and if every one did exactly that we would all be much safer.
Derek
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@Sookie - Purely out of interest. If there were no laws pertaining to mask wearing here whatsoever.... what would you do?
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Hi Derek,
After making the road journey to and from GA many times by car I take my hat off to you going by motorbike.
I hope you have a good trip, arrive safely and have a wonderful holiday.
Dave
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I wear one now when required. Do I like wearing them, no but I do and I will continue to do so.
We haven’t mixed with anyone other than family here. We haven’t been sunning ourselves on the beach and and won’t be when in Spain either, we have no plans to sit in masa square in the bars. To us it’s home from home so it’s a case of food shop then do what’s needed on the house, and believe me there is loads to do.
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@Sooke.... what do you mean by required?
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Do you want me to actually post what required mean. As I’m sure at this point in time you would actually know.
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https://mol.im/a/8482455
Bar prices higher
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Hi Kevin, all businesses will be looking at their pricing levels as a result of the extra cost of doing business to remain Covid safe....a big concern will be the reduction in capacity due to social distancing, customers of bars and restaurants would be naive not to expect some pretty chunky price increases, without them the businesses would no longer be viable.
Regards all
John
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Any well run business, which I suspect would exclude many in GA, would look at their margins on a regular basis anyway. The problem is if you price too high then customers will not buy and if you price too low then your giving it way. As punters become scarce prices will fall as businesses fight for the customer's cash. Working on John's principle a business raises his prices to cover the lower demand but the guy next door ,whom maybe is less savv, reduces his the result is the first guy has no customers and the idiot goes broke.
One thing for sure there will be many business closing as I think both in Spain and here in the UK you need deep pockets to survive. As the economic cycle turns the weaker businesses will go and the stronger ones will become even more profitable but many will not think is it worth the wait for it to recover.
Sorry but that is my take on it and I appreciate that my thoughts are somewhat negative but times are hard.
Derek
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Just a note on the so called reported 'Covid Tax'....shoddy reporting from the DM.....
This was reported a week or so ago in the Spanish press as a few unscrupulous bars in the south of Spain were trying to charge this.... they were subsequently reported to the Police who deemed it illegal and fined the bar owners. There has been quite large warnings in the Spanish press and online to say that if you are charged this at a bar/restaurant then to contact the police immediately and refuse to pay the 'surcharge'
Obviously if they raise the legitimate price of their food and drink that's another matter and you make your own decision as to whether to stay or go elsewhere.
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My opinion is that anyone who through choice decides to visit GA or Bournemouth it matters not is being selfish. I perfectly understand the economic reasons, but feel that the infrastructure and residents should not be put under additional pressure in the short term. Let the new normal settle down, dont burst onto the locals with a make way im back attitude. I want to return this summer but have made the decision not to, sadly some including forum members take the attitude of thats good less crowding more room for me, if we all returned it would be chaos so that makes people selfish.
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The problem is Wilson if the tourists don’t return this summer there will be nothing left to return to. We all know the businesses in GA make their money in the summer and will fold without tourists. Like you I have followed the rules to the letter but at some point given that all the experts agree this thing will be around for years we have to try and get back to normal, and that includes travel.
Spain will have a depression like the world has never seen if they don’t get some tourists in this year and that could lead to a worse scenario than the virus caused. Jobs ,poverty , disease , homelessness etc . It’s not a good choice but one that people will make for themselves.
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The problem is Wilson if the tourists don’t return this summer there will be nothing left to return to. We all know the businesses in GA make their money in the summer and will fold without tourists. Like you I have followed the rules to the letter but at some point given that all the experts agree this thing will be around for years we have to try and get back to normal, and that includes travel.
Spain will have a depression like the world has never seen if they don’t get some tourists in this year and that could lead to a worse scenario than the virus caused. Jobs ,poverty , disease , homelessness etc . It’s not a good choice but one that people will make for themselves.
Totally agree, we've made the decision to support as many local businesses as we can back home and hopefully will be in GA in September to support businesses there to try & survive.
For some to call others selfish because they wish to travel is just pathetic, if some want to stay locked in their house that's their decision the same as for those who don't want to stay locked in.
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Totally agree, we've made the decision to support as many local businesses as we can back home and hopefully will be in GA in September to support businesses there to try & survive.
For some to call others selfish because they wish to travel is just pathetic, if some want to stay locked in their house that's their decision the same as for those who don't want to stay locked in.
[/quote]
Calling me pathetic confirms my opinion that there are individuals who put there own self interest above the greater good its all me me me, i want I want with no consideration that were all in this together, if you wish to show support put £20 in an envelope, turning up in GA during a global pandemic is purely for self interest nothing else.
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Sorry Wilson can’t agree we can’t stay in our cocoons for ever . We have to trust the medical scientific and government advice. If they are saying it’s ok to travel to Spain then people will go . Spain need the tourists to survive. If this is still here in 3 years are you isolating till then ?
I for one have followed all the rules and advice and if now is the time to come out a bit further then I will be doing that , I think we have to accept that nowhere is 100% safe and try to make the best we can of it
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Spurs, you must realise unless you agree with Wilson you are selfish , wrong and it's all about you as his opinion is always right !!
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If this whole pandemic has taught me one thing , it’s that for every government expert and scientist we see, there must be a dozen more telling everybody how they’re wrong and this is what should have happened via their social media platform of choice 😉
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100% with you there Derek in the comparison between Spain and the UK. I hope your good lady is feeling a lot better.
I can see over the coming days, weeks and months this unlocking the lockdown turning into another Brexit debate, heaven forbid with polarised views on both sides.
Can I ask that on the forum we follow the rules and keep it "clean"
Regards all
John
It appears that my prediction was correct, we all have our own views.
The attached cartoon summarises ours quite well, no jaunts for us this year, we are all in different situations.
Regards all
John
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Sorry Wilson can’t agree we can’t stay in our cocoons for ever . We have to trust the medical scientific and government advice. If they are saying it’s ok to travel to Spain then people will go . Spain need the tourists to survive. If this is still here in 3 years are you isolating till then ?
I for one have followed all the rules and advice and if now is the time to come out a bit further then I will be doing that , I think we have to accept that nowhere is 100% safe and try to make the best we can of it
Spurs i agree with what your saying, im referring to the short term. Im not sat in a tin foil hat with tape on the windows, or walking the streets with a clap board stating the end is nigh. What annoys me are the people throughout that have tried to get round the rules or stuck 2 fingers up to doing the decent thing. People making out they need to go to GA during a pandemic to support businesses please spare me this nonsense, buy a gift voucher loads do them, post 20 euro in an envelope to masa square. The only reason to go in person at this time is for yourself nothing more. I want to go as do many others but if we all turn up what then back to restrictions for all including residents. So anybody in my opinion who chooses to go are being selfish.
And for the forum members who seemed confused with how a forum works, its all about respectful discussion and differing opinions sadly some members like to bully others with name calling and shouting down.
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Hi Wilson
Free speech is allowed as well as your own views providing they agree with mine. (Not my thoughts but occasionally my observation).
Derek
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I actually agree that no one is actually going to GA to support others. They kid themselves and some might actually believe it. I am going next week and intend to stay safe (hopefully) but am I going for the good of local businesses of course not.
Derek
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I’m not saying anyone is purely going to GA to support the businesses I’m not in fact I’m not going at all yet . But at some point in the next 5-6 weeks if things continue on the downward spiral I will go.
My concern is that many businesses in GA will not survive a really poor summer and I no one goes I expect Spain to really suffer a recession the like of which has not been seen.
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Hi Wilson
Free speech is allowed as well as your own views providing they agree with mine. (Not my thoughts but occasionally my observation).
Derek
Derek that old stone definitely doesn't need turning back over, though it would be entertaining.
As for returning short term, i just cant see the non business owning residents of GA want to be overrun by visitors at this time. The make way im coming through members of society need to look in the mirror and reflect on the potential consequences of they're actions once they've flown home.
Spurs in 20 years of visiting GA many businesses didnt survive a great year, there have always been an over supply of establishments, many were failing last year, as always in ga the good ones will survive and come back stronger.
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I think we all need to be allowed to make our own minds what's best for us and others do the same and stop telling others where theycan & can't go in UK and Spain.
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"As for returning short term, i just cant see the non business owning residents of GA want to be overrun by visitors at this time."
So what. I brought my house and I pay all my taxes and community fees, the law allows me to travel to GA. If others, already in GA, don't want visitors then maybe they should move to a more isolated location. It is a bit rich to suggest that home owners should not visit their home for fear of upsetting a few Brits whom live there. Providing visitors obey the local rules how can the virus discriminate against visitors I am sure the virus does not select visitors to enjoy a free trip to Spain and once there jump ship onto locals. Life does need to continue with caution.
Derek
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Spot on Derek - I am healthy and fit, the area I live in the UK is way below the national average for infections and deaths (88 deaths for 343,000 population) and we have been following the guidelines scrupulously since day one as we have a vulnerable person (by the NHS definition) living with us.
Its time to move on now and get going - I cant see any advantage in not carrying on with life under this "new normal" - I'll always be as careful as possible to protect myself and others and follow the guidelines. The Alicante area around GA has fared pretty well from the stats I have seen so and appears as safe as anywhere so off we go this week with QR coded paperwork in hand
As I unfortunately left my car in the on site Airport short stay on March 11th thinking I was going to be back 10 days (not 11 weeks) later - I feel the trip is financially justified LOL
"As for returning short term, i just cant see the non business owning residents of GA want to be overrun by visitors at this time."
So what. I brought my house and I pay all my taxes and community fees, the law allows me to travel to GA. If others, already in GA, don't want visitors then maybe they should move to a more isolated location. It is a bit rich to suggest that home owners should not visit their home for fear of upsetting a few Brits whom live there. Providing visitors obey the local rules how can the virus discriminate against visitors I am sure the virus does not select visitors to enjoy a free trip to Spain and once there jump ship onto locals. Life does need to continue with caution.
Derek
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Wow beach life I wonder how much your bill at the car park is going to be . I think if I was you I would claim the old lost my ticket scam and see what they charge you then !
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Hi Beachlife,
let us know what's it like out there , beaches, bars etc
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I think some people on here need to look at the video that’s on Facebook of the opening of the new bar in masa square. The Skippers I’m sure the new owners haven’t just flown in thinking me me me. Not one staff member is wearing a mask, live music and dancing. And there is me thinking that my flying out to Spain this week is selfish and upsetting the locals. They seem to be breaking every rule in the book, but on here it’s us flying out to GA that seem to be in the wrong.
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I saw that video Sookie and thought exactly the same..
...there were some large tables as well, although they could all be in the same family!!
I've seen a few photos that friends on Facebook have shared over recent weeks and I've cringed more than once.
Regards all
John
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I think some people on here need to look at the video that’s on Facebook of the opening of the new bar in masa square. The Skippers I’m sure the new owners haven’t just flown in thinking me me me. Not one staff member is wearing a mask, live music and dancing. And there is me thinking that my flying out to Spain this week is selfish and upsetting the locals. They seem to be breaking every rule in the book, but on here it’s us flying out to GA that seem to be in the wrong.
Well if masa square and facebook are the benchmark in a global pandemic then thats all right. Please spare me this nonsense.
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I don’t actually have Facebook. So please spare me your condescending replies.
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C'mon guys chill - we are on the same side here !!
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Selfish or not - I'm finally coming out Wednesday. I'll obey all the rules but after 4 months I need my fix. Going to GA is probably safer than going to Leicester.
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I don’t actually have Facebook. So please spare me your condescending replies.
Calm down dear, my comment was a general statement, please try and stay factual and try not to misrepresent posts.
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Wilson you quoted my post so yes I will take it that it’s aimed at me. And your last post also aimed at me is patronising and some would say even sexist.
So do me a favour and stop commenting on my posts if you think I can’t keep up.
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This is interesting and adds weight to what many already believe.
https://www.flyertalk.com/articles/is-your-covid-19-risk-higher-on-an-airplane-or-in-a-hotel-room.html?utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=
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Wilson you quoted my post so yes I will take it that it’s aimed at me. And your last post also aimed at me is patronising and some would say even sexist.
So do me a favour and stop commenting on my posts if you think I can’t keep up.
Wilson is patronizing on every post he doesn't agree with, you have obviously gone to Spain which he thinks is selfish but most don't !!!
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Wilson, I've removed your last post, I agree with Sookie and chris and jackie, you are overstepping the mark.
Derek, I have also removed your last post, we have never judged or commented on other members grammar, spelling or use of punctuation on this forum and we are not starting now.
Let's keep it clean, informative and friendly.
Regards all
John
PS Just a reminder from our rules;
We want to make GAsbags as enjoyable as possible for the majority of our members and become a great resource for information on this part of Spain that we all share a love of. We of course need rules to help keep things running smoothly and protect our broad range of users. Here are a few key pointers to take into account when using the Forum. We have also adopted some simple posting guidelines to help you which can be viewed on the Site Admin section of the Forum.
Basically the most important thing to remember is to be kind and respectful to each other.
This is a privately owned site. Posting is a privilege, not a right. Any inappropriate posts or any issues that take up a disproportionate amount of site resources or make it a worse place to be will be stopped at our discretion - with or without explanation. This isn’t a “freedom of speech site”, respect is the name of the game. Do not flame, hound, badger, disrespect, or taunt anyone on the forums. If we feel a thread is getting out of hand we will close it or delete it.
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Thanks John .... the bickering and nastiness was getting a bit out of hand and you have rightly removed the offensive posts. I have decided to close this thread down.