So I’m a little late to the party just because today was a busy day here at the office, but the latest update, the Canarian Government has published restrictions some of which apply to ALL islands REGARDLESS of their alert status in an attempt to curb potential issues as we approach one of the biggest event of the year… CARNIVAL!
Carnival in the Canaries is almost as big as it is in Brazil. So much effort goes into planning the theme, processions, bands, promotion, policing etc., it is a big deal, but COVID-19 is going to ruin Carnival season for the second year in a row and it has been officially cancelled (insert crying Carnival Queen) but we knew this was coming.
The Government convened yesterday afternoon and agreed the following restrictions from today thru Sunday 21st February 2021. Some will be based on the alert status of each island and others apply to all, so first, lets get up to date with what is happening on each island:
- Alert Level 1: Tenerife, La Palma and La Gomera
- Alert Level 2: Fuerteventura and El Hierro
- Alert Level 3: Gran Canaria
- Alert Level 4: Lanzarote and La Graciosa
CURFEW: Persons who do not live under the same roof my meet over the next 10 days in public or private spaces (open-air or enclosed) but the curfew is between 10pm and 6am ON ALL ISLANDS.
EXTRA MEASURES FOR THE HOTEL AND RESTAURANT SECTORS: Over the next 10 days, besides the measures that are already in place depending on the alert level of each island, there are retrictions regarding activities that increase the risk of inspection like consuming at the bar or those that do not allow for the security distance between persons or incorrect use of masks such as celebrating parties, dances, karaokes, competitions, concerts, live music… There are also specific requirements about the maximum number of persons per table:
- Alert Levels 1 and 2: 6 persons
- Alert Level 3: 4 persons
- Alert Level 4: 2 persons
TRAVEL BETWEEN ISLANDS AT ALERT LEVELS 3 AND 4: Airport and port controls are going to intensify to prevent unnecessary travel between islands where the alert level is high. Maximum occupancy on public transport will also be cut to 50%.
ORGANIZED PARTIES, “VERBENAS” AND PUBLIC EVENTS: These types of gatherings are not permitted period. Any type of event that incites mass gatherings and do not allow for social distancing rules will not be allowed so Carnival is a big no-no again this year
Follow the rules and stay safe everyone! Have a lovely weekend 🙂
