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Turkey is introducing sanitary measures and requirements in anticipation of the return of tourists, Turkey’s Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Ersoy said in an interview with CNN Turk today, DPA reported.
“Step by step, from the end of May, people will be allowed to travel within the country,” said Ersoy. “International flights will gradually resume in June,” added the minister.
The government has prepared a program for the certification of hotels and restaurants, which will be subject to strict regulations. The program contains 132 criteria, including guarantees that health standards are met and that social distance is practiced. Staff must be trained in measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Food and drinks will be served by staff. Although buffets will be allowed, guests will not be able to serve themselves.
The government has released a summary list of available hospitals in popular tourist areas and their capacity.
Tourism is an important part of Turkey’s economy. Some 58 million visitors were expected this year, but this forecast is now unlikely in light of the pandemic. Ersoy said that if the coronavirus is controlled, 63 million tourists can be expected in 2021.
Turkey is gradually easing measures against the spread of the infection. A curfew was imposed this weekend in 24 cities and counties, compared to 31 last year. People over 65 were also allowed to go out for a few hours.
Shopping centers and hairdressing salons will open on Monday.
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