Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain, has been present throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in keeping the country aware of how they should go about winding down lockdown measures. With 17 autonomous communities in Spain, all with differing populations and land sizes, the Spanish government’s plan to phase out measures has had to be adopted differently by these communities. With the smaller areas progressing relatively quickly, popular cities like Madrid and Barcelona have to be more patient as they progress to a new, safer, normal. Due to there being so many sources of information available to us all, we thought best to focus on Barcelona and give you an update on how the city is progressing. We’ll get the big one out of the way now, it is compulsory to wear a face mask in public spaces!
Current situation
Towards the end of May, Barcelona spent time in Phase 1, lagging behind smaller autonomous communities, especially the island communities of the Balearic or Mallorca. This Phase of De-escalation was the first big step towards reaching a ‘new normal’, as the city saw the return of outdoor terrace bars. These, being such a staple to Catalan and Spanish culture, have been missed by the locals, who can now go there in small groups to enjoy a drink and tapas. In addition to this, hotels and other tourist accommodation has been able to open once more, an essential move towards rebuilding the tourism sector of the economy- something that the city relies on greatly. Moreover, libraries have reopened their reading rooms, which still observe social distancing yet allow the locals of Barcelona to access more literature in a safe environment. Lastly, there have been strict time slots for people to observe when practicing exercise outdoors either individually or with members of the household.
As of Monday 8th June, Barcelona has been able to progress to Phase 2. One of the main benefits to Barcelona upon entering this phase is that restaurants can reopen their indoor seating areas, with a 40% capacity (a 10% increase on Phase 1). Another industry that will be open and adhere to this maximum capacity is shops and malls, with a range of shops available to people in Barcelona, this will give people a much needed morale boost as the city progresses from this crisis. As for more cultural activities, there will be a 30% capacity allowed at cultural sites, like museums and cinemas, giving people the opportunity to enrich their day with a film or trip to one of the many UNESCO sites in the city. As for swimming pools, some of them will open at a third of capacity, with athletes only allowed to practice in the sea for exercise purposes alone. Lastly, in this phase, people will be able to meet up to 15 people in a group outside, giving a change to socialise with friends and family in larger numbers.
Fans of football will be happy to know that, as of Thursday 11th June, the Spanish first division, La Liga, and the second division, La Liga 2, will resume their seasons. This is very important to the country as a whole, who avidly follow their teams throughout the season. The past few weeks has seen players and staff of every club in these divisions receive testing for the virus, with it now being deemed safe enough to return to action. The president of La Liga, Javier Tebas, has even said that he would look to have fans return to the stands as soon as possible. Regardless of that meaning that stadiums are only a third, or half full, this is great news for people looking to see a match in Barcelona live before the end the year, with the likelihood being that this would only be realistic for the 2020/21 season, which will start in late August/early September.
Future plans for Barcelona
Time will tell how Barcelona takes to Phase 2 and the test of success, as always, will rely on how the virus progresses. Therefore, it is not concrete as to how long the city will stay in Phase 2. Judging by the trend, it seems that the city will spend some 2 weeks with these restrictions before progressing. This will be towards the end of June, yet it is still important to clarify what is in store for Phase 3. The main difference here will be that restaurants, bars, shops and cultural events will all be able to host up to 50% capacity indoors, and 75% for outdoor spaces. Nightclubs will be open once more, being able to welcome a third of their capacity. As for libraries, all their activities will be able to return, giving people the opportunity to learn together in the same space again for the first time in months. The biggest cultural change in Phase 3 is that beaches will reopen for leisurely use, meaning that sun bathing and going in the sea will be permitted. Although some smaller regions in Spain are at this stage, it is not yet certain when Barcelona will reach this stage. At the very least, the trial of other regions will ensure that when Barcelona does progress, it will be safe to do so.
As for what would come after that, would remain in the hands of the regions. Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, said that the end of the national emergency, which has recently been extended until 21st June, is when regions will be able to decide on their own account whether or not to further step down measures. In addition to this, the Prime Minister has suggested that foreign travellers will be able to enter the country in the month of July. However, it is important to stress that this will depend on the infection rates in your own country, so keep an eye on that before planning a trip to Barcelona or elsewhere in the region. If you are reading this whilst living in Spain, wanting to travel to Barcelona for leisure purposes, then you will have to wait until the city reaches Phase 3 before travelling here. Of course, travel is not at the front of our minds as of right now, however, it is important to keep informed on the places that you have an interest in travelling to.
Sandra Roig is Marketing Director at AB Apartment Barcelona. AB Apartment Barcelona is an apartment rental agency offering over one thousand short and long term apartments across Barcelona.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Sandra Roig is Marketing Director at AB Apartment Barcelona. AB Apartment Barcelona is an apartment rental agency offering over one thousand short and long term apartments across Barcelona. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
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8 Comments
I think the obligatory face mask in public is a wise move. I wish that were adopted here in the UK full scale and earlier on too. That said, it’s tricky finding a mask let alone several to see us through the upcoming weeks and months, at least not the more heavy duty ones rather than the paper surgical masks. Outdoor terrace bars opening first also seems more logical when you can space out more easily and you’re not trapped in a confined area with re-circulated air. It’s interesting to read how things have been in Spain and the moves taken to control and de-escalate. I hope they manage to contain and reduce successfully, especially as they’re able to test apparently more widely there such as with the sports teams to ensure getting back to the matches doesn’t further spread the virus.
Yes, I agree that wearing a face mask is a logical first step to control the spread of the disease. However, with them now being needed by all, supply isn’t very high it seems. Better to persist with searching for the material ones that allow you to wash and reuse! Yes, it seems the reopening of outdoor terrace bars has been a success in every aspect- long may this continue!
I am glad to hear that you have enjoyed the update on Spain. For those interested in the country, it can be hard to keep up to date from your home country, due to lack of media coverage etc. This article was written with people like you in mind! Yes, fingers crossed it is under control and testing continues being expanded across the country and the continent!
Take care, Rich, and thanks again for your comment!
Owen
On behalf of Sandra Roig and the team at AB Apartment Barcelona
It’s good to see that Spain is slowly getting back to some sense of normalcy. I can’t imagine how long it has been for some to even go out in public. I know an elderly couple who won’t even go out of their balcony during the height of the pandemic in Spain. I would think they would have ventured to their outside private space for now without worries. But I don’t think they’d be coming out of their house any time soon. But for others, this de-escalation is a welcome event. Humans are social and we can’t really survive for long without any human contact. I still think that basic safety protocols should be followed like wearing masks in public and keeping physical distancing in mind always when dealing with other people. Of course, washing hands and always carrying a small bottle of alcohol or sanitizer is essential nowadays. In a way, this should be a new normal for anyone even when a vaccine has been made.
Thanks for your insight, we appreciate it greatly!
Yes, unfortunately it has been common for the elderly in the country to remain indoors throughout the pandemic. This, of course, has been tough for them and their loved ones. However, it has been amazing to see the sense of community return with neighbours doing a shop for the elders in the apartment block or on their street.
As for your point around human contact, I definitely agree. Spanish culture promotes contact, close social interaction and lots of affection. This has made it especially hard for the public to de-escalate. However, they will certainly take some distanced socialising over none!
I for one will certainly carry a sanitizer with me for the foreseeable future!
Thanks again for your contribution.
Owen
On behalf of Sandra Roig and the team at AB Apartment Barcelona
That’s been one of the hardest things for me, just having to stay inside. You bring up a good point about being human and I’m sure the people there are eager to get out into the world again. To talk to each other and eat out and enjoy life!
Dear Anthony,
Thank you for your contribution- we really appreciate it!
Yes, staying inside for this long is a very difficult concept to get your head around. Speaking as someone who is with a shielding person, it is especially hard. It is essential to remember how amazing life is! Done by talking to one another and looking forward to socialising again. We will get there!
This article has looked to give people a much needed morale boost, something we haven’t had too many of these days!
We hope you enjoyed and wish you all the best, Anthony.
Kind regards,
Owen
On behalf Sandra Roig and the team at AB Apartment Barcelona
When I read about the football match, I get a really special feeling in my heart. I think it’s going to be an amazing sight and there will be a lot of applause from wherever people are just to see football games again. It’s a token of the triumph as human beings against nature, as a way of remembering how truly special it is to be alive. Well done on this post.
Thank you for your kind words, we are very glad you enjoyed!
In a country as mad about football as Spain is, getting things in place for football to return was a real victory. With the next focus on being getting fans back to the stadiums. It will take time but things are heading in the right direction.
Here’s hoping we can get back to supporting our teams in the not too distant future.
Take care and best wishes,
Owen
On behalf of Sandra Roig and AB Apartment Barcelona
Current situation
Towards the end of May, Barcelona spent time in Phase 1, lagging behind smaller autonomous communities, especially the island communities of the Balearic or Mallorca. This Phase of De-escalation was the first big step towards reaching a ‘new normal’, as the city saw the return of outdoor terrace bars. These, being such a staple to Catalan and Spanish culture, have been missed by the locals, who can now go there in small groups to enjoy a drink and tapas. In addition to this, hotels and other tourist accommodation has been able to open once more, an essential move towards rebuilding the tourism sector of the economy- something that the city relies on greatly. Moreover, libraries have reopened their reading rooms, which still observe social distancing yet allow the locals of Barcelona to access more literature in a safe environment. Lastly, there have been strict time slots for people to observe when practicing exercise outdoors either individually or with members of the household.
Current situation
Towards the end of May, Barcelona spent time in Phase 1, lagging behind smaller autonomous communities, especially the island communities of the Balearic or Mallorca. This Phase of De-escalation was the first big step towards reaching a ‘new normal’, as the city saw the return of outdoor terrace bars. These, being such a staple to Catalan and Spanish culture, have been missed by the locals, who can now go there in small groups to enjoy a drink and tapas. In addition to this, hotels and other tourist accommodation has been able to open once more, an essential move towards rebuilding the tourism sector of the economy- something that the city relies on greatly. Moreover, libraries have reopened their reading rooms, which still observe social distancing yet allow the locals of Barcelona to access more literature in a safe environment. Lastly, there have been strict time slots for people to observe when practicing exercise outdoors either individually or with members of the household.
As of Monday 8th June, Barcelona has been able to progress to Phase 2. One of the main benefits to Barcelona upon entering this phase is that restaurants can reopen their indoor seating areas, with a 40% capacity (a 10% increase on Phase 1). Another industry that will be open and adhere to this maximum capacity is shops and malls, with a range of shops available to people in Barcelona, this will give people a much needed morale boost as the city progresses from this crisis. As for more cultural activities, there will be a 30% capacity allowed at cultural sites, like museums and cinemas, giving people the opportunity to enrich their day with a film or trip to one of the many UNESCO sites in the city. As for swimming pools, some of them will open at a third of capacity, with athletes only allowed to practice in the sea for exercise purposes alone. Lastly, in this phase, people will be able to meet up to 15 people in a group outside, giving a change to socialise with friends and family in larger numbers.
Fans of football will be happy to know that, as of Thursday 11th June, the Spanish first division, La Liga, and the second division, La Liga 2, will resume their seasons. This is very important to the country as a whole, who avidly follow their teams throughout the season. The past few weeks has seen players and staff of every club in these divisions receive testing for the virus, with it now being deemed safe enough to return to action. The president of La Liga, Javier Tebas, has even said that he would look to have fans return to the stands as soon as possible. Regardless of that meaning that stadiums are only a third, or half full, this is great news for people looking to see a match in Barcelona live before the end the year, with the likelihood being that this would only be realistic for the 2020/21 season, which will start in late August/early September.
Future plans for Barcelona
Time will tell how Barcelona takes to Phase 2 and the test of success, as always, will rely on how the virus progresses. Therefore, it is not concrete as to how long the city will stay in Phase 2. Judging by the trend, it seems that the city will spend some 2 weeks with these restrictions before progressing. This will be towards the end of June, yet it is still important to clarify what is in store for Phase 3. The main difference here will be that restaurants, bars, shops and cultural events will all be able to host up to 50% capacity indoors, and 75% for outdoor spaces. Nightclubs will be open once more, being able to welcome a third of their capacity. As for libraries, all their activities will be able to return, giving people the opportunity to learn together in the same space again for the first time in months. The biggest cultural change in Phase 3 is that beaches will reopen for leisurely use, meaning that sun bathing and going in the sea will be permitted. Although some smaller regions in Spain are at this stage, it is not yet certain when Barcelona will reach this stage. At the very least, the trial of other regions will ensure that when Barcelona does progress, it will be safe to do so.
As for what would come after that, would remain in the hands of the regions. Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, said that the end of the national emergency, which has recently been extended until 21st June, is when regions will be able to decide on their own account whether or not to further step down measures. In addition to this, the Prime Minister has suggested that foreign travellers will be able to enter the country in the month of July. However, it is important to stress that this will depend on the infection rates in your own country, so keep an eye on that before planning a trip to Barcelona or elsewhere in the region. If you are reading this whilst living in Spain, wanting to travel to Barcelona for leisure purposes, then you will have to wait until the city reaches Phase 3 before travelling here. Of course, travel is not at the front of our minds as of right now, however, it is important to keep informed on the places that you have an interest in travelling to.
Sandra Roig is Marketing Director at AB Apartment Barcelona. AB Apartment Barcelona is an apartment rental agency offering over one thousand short and long term apartments across Barcelona.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
I think the obligatory face mask in public is a wise move. I wish that were adopted here in the UK full scale and earlier on too. That said, it’s tricky finding a mask let alone several to see us through the upcoming weeks and months, at least not the more heavy duty ones rather than the paper surgical masks. Outdoor terrace bars opening first also seems more logical when you can space out more easily and you’re not trapped in a confined area with re-circulated air. It’s interesting to read how things have been in Spain and the moves taken to control and de-escalate. I hope they manage to contain and reduce successfully, especially as they’re able to test apparently more widely there such as with the sports teams to ensure getting back to the matches doesn’t further spread the virus.
Hi Rich,
Thanks for your comment, we really appreciate it!
Yes, I agree that wearing a face mask is a logical first step to control the spread of the disease. However, with them now being needed by all, supply isn’t very high it seems. Better to persist with searching for the material ones that allow you to wash and reuse! Yes, it seems the reopening of outdoor terrace bars has been a success in every aspect- long may this continue!
I am glad to hear that you have enjoyed the update on Spain. For those interested in the country, it can be hard to keep up to date from your home country, due to lack of media coverage etc. This article was written with people like you in mind! Yes, fingers crossed it is under control and testing continues being expanded across the country and the continent!
Take care, Rich, and thanks again for your comment!
Owen
On behalf of Sandra Roig and the team at AB Apartment Barcelona
It’s good to see that Spain is slowly getting back to some sense of normalcy. I can’t imagine how long it has been for some to even go out in public. I know an elderly couple who won’t even go out of their balcony during the height of the pandemic in Spain. I would think they would have ventured to their outside private space for now without worries. But I don’t think they’d be coming out of their house any time soon. But for others, this de-escalation is a welcome event. Humans are social and we can’t really survive for long without any human contact. I still think that basic safety protocols should be followed like wearing masks in public and keeping physical distancing in mind always when dealing with other people. Of course, washing hands and always carrying a small bottle of alcohol or sanitizer is essential nowadays. In a way, this should be a new normal for anyone even when a vaccine has been made.
Hi Margie,
Thanks for your insight, we appreciate it greatly!
Yes, unfortunately it has been common for the elderly in the country to remain indoors throughout the pandemic. This, of course, has been tough for them and their loved ones. However, it has been amazing to see the sense of community return with neighbours doing a shop for the elders in the apartment block or on their street.
As for your point around human contact, I definitely agree. Spanish culture promotes contact, close social interaction and lots of affection. This has made it especially hard for the public to de-escalate. However, they will certainly take some distanced socialising over none!
I for one will certainly carry a sanitizer with me for the foreseeable future!
Thanks again for your contribution.
Owen
On behalf of Sandra Roig and the team at AB Apartment Barcelona
That’s been one of the hardest things for me, just having to stay inside. You bring up a good point about being human and I’m sure the people there are eager to get out into the world again. To talk to each other and eat out and enjoy life!
Dear Anthony,
Thank you for your contribution- we really appreciate it!
Yes, staying inside for this long is a very difficult concept to get your head around. Speaking as someone who is with a shielding person, it is especially hard. It is essential to remember how amazing life is! Done by talking to one another and looking forward to socialising again. We will get there!
This article has looked to give people a much needed morale boost, something we haven’t had too many of these days!
We hope you enjoyed and wish you all the best, Anthony.
Kind regards,
Owen
On behalf Sandra Roig and the team at AB Apartment Barcelona
When I read about the football match, I get a really special feeling in my heart. I think it’s going to be an amazing sight and there will be a lot of applause from wherever people are just to see football games again. It’s a token of the triumph as human beings against nature, as a way of remembering how truly special it is to be alive. Well done on this post.
Dear Ben,
Thank you for your kind words, we are very glad you enjoyed!
In a country as mad about football as Spain is, getting things in place for football to return was a real victory. With the next focus on being getting fans back to the stadiums. It will take time but things are heading in the right direction.
Here’s hoping we can get back to supporting our teams in the not too distant future.
Take care and best wishes,
Owen
On behalf of Sandra Roig and AB Apartment Barcelona