Greek Hoteliers Want Health Protocol Clarifications

Greek hoteliers are requesting that the tourism ministry clarify the details involving the mandatory implementation of health protocols and are citing the high cost involved.

“Hotels are not and will not become hospitals,” said the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation (POX) in a letter to Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis, underlining that the demands placed on hoteliers to implement stringent measures including having doctors on are not only costly but also beyond their means and scope of responsibility.

“It is not the job of the hotelier and should not be for dozens of reasons to identify, examine or treat patients with Covid-19. This is the work of public health services,” POX said.

POX goes on to add that the precautions requested of hotels do not apply across the business spectrum with regard to conference events and indoor pools, citing double standards.

The association has called on tourism authorities to clarify whether or not hotels can host conference events.

“We don’t understand how it’s possible to allow wedding ceremonies and other events, the operation of entertainment centers and not to explicitly state that conference events are allowed [at hotels] which are clearly set in a more ‘controlled environment’,” said POX.

In addition, the association also referred to the general operation of indoor pools and spa facilities but which are not allowed at hotels.