Vaccination certificates and PCR tests mutually accepted
Last night, Greece and Turkey officially agreed to recognize each other's coronavirus vaccination certificates mutually. This is a significant step in opening up travel between the countries and travelling to and from both countries straightforward this summer.
The citizens of the two countries will be able to visit with either a vaccination certificate or proof of a negative PCR test. Given Greece is an EU member and the upcoming vaccination passport will be valid across all EU countries, all EU citizens can likely travel between both countries.
“The agreement we reached today will contribute positively to our tourism sectors. We have a common will with Greece,"
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu
Turkey normalization continues
At the same time, the Turkish government announced that the heavily reduced infection numbers, now less than 6500 per day (population 85 million), are the reason to continue the normalization process. Turkey started a gradual normalization process on May 17 after a 17-day lockdown that significantly brought infections in the country down.
From today, all cafes and restaurants will be allowed to welcome visitors by abiding by the hygiene and social distancing rules. The nighttime curfew has been extended to 10 PM during weekdays and weekends.
Safe Tourism Certificate
On top of the positive progress and agreement, Turkey strictly complies with global safety standards by the Safe Tourism Certificate certifying compliance for tourist spots, accommodation facilities and airports. The certificate has been awarded to more than 9,800 businesses. It enters its second year and includes various restaurants, cultural venues, congress facilities, marine tourism facilitates, theme parks, and ski lift facilities. Starting in 2021, Turkey made this certificate compulsory for all accommodation facilities with a bed capacity of 30 and above.
Next time, we'll share with you last week's experience travelling to and from Turkey (spoiler alert: it was smooth, safe and easy) and impressions of the Sailing Chef 2021 maiden sail with unique new photo's. So, stay tuned. Here's a sneak peek...
If you have questions, please reach out to or team via WhatsApp (+31 15 8080103) or email (info@sailingchef.eu).
Your Sailing Chef Team