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Since the end of 2021, the Omicron variant of Covid-19 has been spreading around the world. Compared to the initial strain of the virus as well as the Delta variant (dominant since summer 2021), the Omicron has a very high number of mutations. Is it more dangerous than its predecessors? Whereas the first studies from South Africa were rather reassuring, another research from the United Kingdom came to more alarming conclusions. One thing is certain, though: the Omicron variant is extremely contagious, and Europe, just like other continents, is not spared. Luckily for you, fellow travelers, there are still places you can visit. Here is a map of destinations that are still open in Europe, updated with the newest travel restrictions around the Omicron variant.
This map was first put in place in the summer of 2020, when Europe was coming out of the first wave of various confinements. The goal is to guide tourists traveling within the EU, but also in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member countries. With the arrival of the Omicron variant, new travel restrictions have been imposed in Europe, from Portugal to Estonia. The Re-Open EU site, available in 24 languages, explains, country by country, how you can enter and stay in different destinations depending on the evolution of the pandemic. The interactive map takes into account the latest changes to the travel conditions.
For each country, you can access information divided in four different tabs: Travel, Health measures, Health situation, and Other questions. The Travel tab is the most relevant for us. Here you will find everything you need to know in order to enter a specific country: health pass, vaccination, PCR / antigen tests, quarantine periods. It also features measures related to transit or leaving the country.
Furthermore, the website allows you to simulate your trip. Just enter your country of departure and your destination to find out all the specific instructions with which you will have to comply.
Given its speed of spread, the Omicron variant has prompted European countries to update certain measures in force at the very start of the pandemic. So before leaving for the airport (or even buying your tickets!), remember to check the Re-Open EU site frequently to prepare for your trip properly. (Photo: Markus Winkler / Unsplash)
