Travelling Without Facemasks
Note: If you don’t mind travelling to places where masks are a thing, then this article probably isn’t relevant to you. Have a great holiday!
Many things have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism is one of them. Now that the pandemic is fading in Europe (well aware that it could come back) and now that summer is upon us, where to go?
For those of us living in one of the many countries in Europe that beat back the COVID scourge without ever wearing facemasks or having them recommended by our authorities, visiting places where facemasks in public are widespread is not an attractive option. I’ve spoken to many friends planning holidays and facemasks are clearly featuring into travel plans.
The European Union is now opening up to tourists from select countries — obviously not the failed states that never bothered tackling the virus with any comprehensive lockdown strategy or social distancing measures — so I decided to make a list of travel destinations for those of us who want to enjoy a holiday without the American Mask Hysteria. Luckily, there are some wonderful options.
Many airlines, in a desperate attempt to ease fears and make back some money, require them, as do many airports. I’ll be heading to Greece in a couple of weeks and I’ll have to find my first facemask in order to fly, but I’ll figure something out.
The whole mask policy of all these countries could change at some point, but for now, this list works.
Have a great summer, fellow Europeans! Wherever you may travel.
DENMARK
Virtually no masks. Anywhere. No governmental recommendations for their use.
SWEDEN
JUST KIDDING. Nobody wants to go to Sweden. That awkward, drunk uncle at the Nordic family party. Except maybe the southern region of Skåne/Scania, where the COVID-19 infection rate has been very low. So here’s one of their videos:
Very few masks.
Visit Skåne website.
FAROE ISLANDS
Very few masks. No governmental recommendations for their use.
NORWAY
Very few masks.
FINLAND
Very few masks.
ICELAND
Hardly any masks.
GREECE
Some masks in the large cities. Only required on public transport.
CROATIA
Very few masks.
LATVIA
Very few masks. Only required on public transport. Ride a bike.
LITHUANIA
Very few masks. Only required on public transport.
ESTONIA
Very few masks.
GREENLAND
Hardly any masks.
