May 18, authorized return to second homes
If the tourism sector still hopes that holidays abroad can take place, it is difficult to imagine the presidents of countries like France, Italy and Spain, favorite destinations of Belgians for the summer season, accept to welcome millions of tourists, some of whom are potentially carriers of the virus. At the risk of relaunching the epidemic in these countries.
If the borders between countries of the Shenghen area were finally closed, the Belgians would then have no other choice than to go to Belgian tourist sites.
The decision was made this Friday evening by the National Security Council: family day trips to a region other than its region of residence will be authorized again from May 18. “The coast and the Ardennes will therefore be accessible, specifies the Prime Minister Sophie Wilmès. It will also be possible to reach your second home. “
There is therefore a risk of experiencing a real rush towards the North Sea and the south of the country during the beautiful summer days. Belgians, to take advantage of their days off, may indeed have no other choice for entertainment, festivals, concerts and other mass events being suspended until August 31. “It is planned to leave it to the municipalities to authorize the smaller outdoor activities”, says Sophie Wilmès, however.
If it is undoubtedly too late to book an apartment or a house on the Flemish dike – the sector flirts with 100% of bookings every year – then overnight tourism should be popular. On the Ardennes side, it should be easier to rent a country cottage.
Those who stay at home, however, may also plan to turn to amusement or animal parks for relaxation. For the time being, they should not be able to reopen their doors before the third phase of deconfinement, which will not start until June 8. The decision is expected to be made by the end of May.
The same goes for outdoor recreation sites such as the Eau d’Heure lakes and tourist activities such as kayak rental companies that could reopen following strict standards, particularly in terms of population.
Finally, note that until May 18, non-essential travel is prohibited by car. Going to the Bois de la Cambre or the Eau d’Heure lakes is therefore prohibited.
–
