Turkey steps up hygiene measures as preparing for return of tourists
"The government has developed a certification programme for hotels and restaurants which are to be subject to strict regulations," Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Ersoy said in his televised remarks on Sunday as referring to the hygiene measures taken by Turkish government as a part of the preparation for the return of tourists.
- Economy
- DPA
- Published Date: 02:27 | 10 May 2020
- Modified Date: 02:41 | 10 May 2020
Turkey is establishing hygiene measures and requirements in preparation for the return of tourists, Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Ersoy told CNN Turk on Sunday.
Step by step, people are to be gradually allowed to travel within the country starting at the end of May, Ersoy said. In June, international flights will gradually recommence, he added.
The government has developed a certification programme for hotels and restaurants which are to be subject to strict regulations, Ersoy said. The programme has 132 criteria that include hygiene regulations and social distancing practices. Staff are also to be trained in measures to prevent the spread of infection.
Staff are to bring people meals and drinks. While buffets are to be permitted, guests are not to be allowed to help themselves.
The government has also published an overview of the hospitals available in areas popular among tourists, and lists their capacities.
Tourism is an important part of Turkey's economy and expected 58 million visitors this year, now unlikely given the pandemic. Ersoy said if the coronavirus was under control, 63 million tourists might be expected in 2021.
Turkey is gradually easing measures imposed to restrict the spread of the virus. This weekend, 24 towns and provinces are under curfew, down from 31. People over the age of 65 are also allowed outside for a few hours.
As of Monday, shopping centres and hairdressers are due to reopen.