Re-open EU: New Site & App Offers Real-time Info for Safe Travel

Travelers planning to visit EU countries can now access a new website offering real-time information on destinations, Covid-19 safety regulations and measures in place ahead of their trip.

The European Commission also announced the launch of a mobile friendly version of the site on Monday in efforts to support safe travel and tourism in the Union.

The site and app provides users regularly updated country-specific information, updates and advice for each EU country in 24 languages as well as information on borders and available means of transport and tourism services.

Re-open EU also includes practical information on travel restrictions, public health and safety measures such as on physical distancing or facemask requirements.

The goal is to enable Europeans to take responsible and well-informed decisions on how to manage continuing risks related to coronavirus while planning their holidays and travels this summer, the Commission said.

“After weeks of confinement, EU internal borders are reopening. The Re-open EU website we are launching today will provide travelers with easy access to information to help them confidently make their travel plans and stay safe during their trip,” said Thierry Breton, EU commissioner for Internal Market. “It will also help small restaurant and hotel owners, as well as towns across Europe, draw inspiration from innovative solutions developed by others.”

The Re-open EU site comes within the Commission’s Tourism and Transport package announced on May 13 in an attempt to restore traveler confidence and contribute to the recovery of Europe’s tourism sector.

Re-open EU also includes information on so-called “patronage vouchers” that give consumers the option to support their favourite hotels or restaurants by buying vouchers for a future stay or meal once they reopen.

Patronage vouchers are designed to help businesses overcome cash-flow bottlenecks with services provided later. The amount paid by the customer goes directly to the service provider.

Lastly, the Commission also said that “Europeana” – Europe’s digital cultural platform – is launching “Discovering Europe”, a collection of art works and photographs of some of Europe’s most iconic landmarks.