Another week, another coronavirus update! As the situation here in Ibiza and Formentera continues to evolve, there has been a slight relaxation in the rules concerning social mobility. In response to a moderate drop in the number of cases here, we can welcome some positive changes at last.
With hopes increasing of the efficacy of a vaccine programme, in Ibiza we are now at Level 3 (high risk) of the Govern Balears' 5 step plans to full recovery, while Formentera has already progressed to Level 1 (situation in control). Level Zero being a 'Prevention Situation'.
So, if you're planning to visit the islands over the coming weeks, or returning home from overseas, there are important changes, effective from Saturday 28 November, to consider.
- The night-time curfew will be reduced back to 00:00 to 06:00. This is obviously great news for bar and restaurant owners, who are also now allowed to invite their clients back indoors.
- Bar and restaurant interior capacity can now range from 30% to 60%, according to the level of ventilation inside. Exterior terrace capacity will be increased to 75%.
- Smokers are now allowed to expel their foul air in the street, without the risk of incurring a €100 fine, where a minimum of 2m safety distance can be maintained. However, smoking on bar terraces and smoking while walking will remain prohibited, even to Level 0.
- Social gatherings in Ibiza remain limited to 6 outside, 6 inside. On Formentera the situation is considerably better; 20 outside, 10 inside.
- The capacity in shops in Ibiza remains at 50% but will be increased to 70% on Formentera.
- Cinemas are allowed 45% capacity and refreshments are allowed to be consumed again. Theatres and cultural centres are limited to 50%.
- Sports events: up to 15 people can participate in Ibiza and 30 in Formentera.
We are also picking up welcome news of a relaxation of the quarantine regulations for travellers returning home from the Balearic Islands. In some cases that period has been reduced to as little as 5 days and, in other regions, none. Please check with your own country's Foreign Office for up to date travel advice.
We are aware of the resumption of some direct flights to the islands from parts of Germany by the airline Eurowings and from Holland with Transavia.
When you fly to Spain from abroad you have to fill in a form online and receive an QR code, find more information here (change the language in the top right corner for an English translation). Furthermore, since 23rd of November your entry into Spain will have to be accompanied by a negative PCR test in your country of origin, concluded 72 hours before travel - find more information about this here.
Please be aware that this information is always subject to change and we will always try to keep you updated as frequently as possible.
